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pensamiento means thought — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: November 24, 2025

📘 Essential Spanish

pensamiento

noun • /[pen-sa-MYEN-to]/

thought

Example:

Tuve un pensamiento muy bonito hoy.

I had a very nice thought today.

🧠 What does pensamiento mean?

Pensamiento refers to the capacity or process of thinking, as well as an individual idea, concept, or opinion that results from this process. It is derived from the verb 'pensar' (to think) and encompasses everything from a fleeting idea to a complex philosophical system or school of thought.

📚 Extra examples

  • La filosofía se dedica al estudio del pensamiento humano.
    Philosophy is dedicated to the study of human thought.
  • Me perdí en mis pensamientos y no escuché lo que dijiste.
    I got lost in my thoughts and didn't hear what you said.
  • El pensamiento crítico es una habilidad esencial en la educación superior.
    Critical thinking is an essential skill in higher education.
  • Tuve un pensamiento repentino y se lo conté a mi amigo.
    I had a sudden thought and told my friend about it.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'pensamiento' comes from the Latin verb 'pensāre', which meant 'to weigh' or 'to consider'. This origin beautifully illustrates the concept of thinking as a process of weighing ideas and options in one's mind.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "pensamiento"

Synonyms: idea, reflexión, razonamiento, opinión, concepto
Opposites: sentimiento, acción, instinto, emoción

🔍 See more essential spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'thought' in Spanish?
The most common and direct way to say 'thought' in Spanish is 'pensamiento'.
How do you pronounce 'pensamiento' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is pen-sah-mee-EN-toh, with the stress on the fourth syllable, 'en'.
How do you use 'pensamiento' in a sentence?
As a noun, 'pensamiento' can be the subject or object of a sentence. For example: 'Apunta ese pensamiento para no olvidarlo.' (Write down that thought so you don't forget it.)
What is the English translation of 'pensamiento'?
The English translation of 'pensamiento' is 'thought'.
Does 'pensamiento' change for gender or number?
'Pensamiento' is a masculine noun. It does not change for gender. Its plural form is 'pensamientos'.
Is 'pensamiento' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'pensamiento' is a fundamental word used frequently in both everyday conversation and more formal, academic, or literary contexts.
Does 'pensamiento' have slang or double meanings?
Generally, 'pensamiento' does not have slang meanings. In some literary or botanical contexts, it can also refer to the pansy flower, but this is not its primary meaning.
Is 'pensamiento' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
No, the meaning and use of 'pensamiento' are consistent across all major varieties of Spanish.

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