Inklingo

How to Say "thinks" in Spanish

English → Spanish

opina

oh-PEE-nah/oˈpina/

VerbA2General
Use 'opina' when someone is expressing their personal opinion or viewpoint on a matter, similar to saying 'holds the opinion that'.
A colorful storybook illustration showing a simple character sitting cross-legged on the ground, chin resting on their hand, looking contemplative. A simple, empty thought cloud floats above their head.

Examples

Mi hermana opina que la película fue aburrida.

My sister thinks the movie was boring.

El presidente opina sobre la nueva ley de educación.

The president gives his opinion on the new education law.

¿Usted opina que debemos empezar ahora?

Do you (formal) think we should start now?

Who is 'Opina'?

'Opina' is the verb form used when talking about what he, she, it, or the formal you (usted) thinks or says.

A Simple Command

You can also use 'opina' as a friendly, familiar command to tell someone to speak up and give their view: '¡Opina!' (Give your opinion!).

Using the Wrong Verb

Mistake: “Using 'opina' when you mean 'asks' (pide).”

Correction: 'Opina' is only for expressing a view; use 'pide' or 'pregunta' when someone is asking for information or a request.

crea

KRAY-ah/ˈkɾea/

VerbA1General
Use 'crea' when referring to belief, faith, or a strong conviction, often in a context of trust or conjecture about something being true.
A child standing in a simple room, gently holding a small, glowing yellow star between their cupped hands, gazing at it with a look of deep conviction and trust.

Examples

Es importante que él crea en sí mismo.

It is important that he believe in himself. (Subjunctive)

Quiero que usted crea mi versión de la historia.

I want you (formal) to believe my version of the story. (Subjunctive)

¡Crea lo que le digo, por favor!

Believe what I am telling you, please! (Formal command)

The Subjunctive Use

This form ('crea') is most often used in the special mood called the Subjunctive, which is triggered by expressions of desire, emotion, doubt, or necessity (e.g., 'Es necesario que él crea...').

Mixing Indicative and Subjunctive

Mistake: “Saying 'Yo cree...' (I believe) when stating a fact.”

Correction: For stating a fact, use the Indicative: 'Yo creo...' (I believe). 'Yo crea' is only used when the Subjunctive is required.

Opinion vs. Belief

Learners often confuse 'opina' and 'crea' because both can relate to what someone 'thinks'. Remember that 'opina' is for expressing a personal opinion or judgment, while 'crea' is for expressing belief, faith, or a strong conviction.

Related Translations

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