Inklingo

How to Say "we think" in Spanish

English → Spanish

pensamos

pen-SAH-mos/penˈsamos/

VerbA1General
Use 'pensamos' when expressing a general opinion, belief, or assumption about something, similar to 'we suppose' or 'we reckon'.
A simple storybook illustration showing two cartoon children sitting side-by-side on a wooden bench, both resting a hand on their chin in a thoughtful pose.

Examples

Pensamos que la película fue muy entretenida.

We think the movie was very entertaining.

Pensamos que este libro es fascinante.

We think that this book is fascinating.

Pensamos ir al cine mañana por la noche.

We are planning to go to the cinema tomorrow night.

Ayer pensamos lo mismo sobre el partido.

Yesterday we thought the same thing about the game.

Stem Change Exception

Even though the verb 'pensar' usually changes its vowel from 'e' to 'ie' (like 'yo pienso'), the 'nosotros' (we) form is an exception and keeps the original 'e': 'pensamos'.

Thinking vs. Planning

To express an opinion, use 'pensar que' (Pensamos que es tarde). To express a plan or intention, use 'pensar + [the action]' (Pensamos viajar).

Confusing Present and Past

Mistake: “The word 'pensamos' means 'we think' (Present) AND 'we thought' (Preterite).”

Correction: You rely on context or time words (like 'ayer' or 'hoy') to know which tense is being used. Since the 'we' form is identical in both, the context is your best clue.

creemos

/kreh-EH-mohs//kɾeˈe.mos/

VerbA1General
Use 'creemos' when stating a belief or opinion that is held with a degree of conviction, often implying faith or trust in something.
A colorful storybook illustration showing two stylized people, standing side-by-side and holding hands, gazing together towards a small, radiant golden star floating above them, symbolizing shared belief.

Examples

Creemos que es importante ser honesto.

We believe it is important to be honest.

Creemos que la nueva ley es justa.

We believe that the new law is fair.

No creemos en fantasmas, pero la historia era interesante.

We don't believe in ghosts, but the story was interesting.

¿Qué hora es? Creemos que son las tres.

What time is it? We think it's three o'clock.

Stating Opinions with 'Que'

To express what you believe, use 'creemos que...' followed by a normal, factual verb form (the indicative mood). Example: 'Creemos que ella es muy inteligente.'

No Change in Mood

Unlike some verbs, when you use 'creemos' (we believe) in the affirmative, the verb that follows 'que' does NOT need to change to the special subjunctive form. It signals certainty.

Mixing up 'Creer' and 'Pensar'

Mistake: “Using 'creemos' when you mean 'we are planning to' (which is usually 'pensamos').”

Correction: 'Creemos' is for beliefs or opinions. 'Pensamos ir mañana' (We plan to go tomorrow) is for intentions.

Pensamos vs. Creemos Nuance

Learners often use 'pensamos' and 'creemos' interchangeably. While 'pensamos' is more about a thought process or opinion, 'creemos' often carries a stronger sense of belief or conviction, sometimes even bordering on faith.

Related Translations

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