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pensar means to think — a common term in Essential Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: July 15, 2025

📘 Essential Spanish

pensar

verb • /[pen-SAR]/

to think

Example:

Estoy pensando en cambiar de planes.

I'm thinking about changing plans.

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🧠 What does pensar mean?

Pensar is a very common Spanish verb meaning 'to think'. It can be used to express opinions, beliefs, intentions, and the process of considering something. It's a crucial verb for communicating effectively in Spanish.

📚 Extra examples

  • Pienso que la paella es deliciosa.
    I think that paella is delicious.
  • Estoy pensando en ir al cine esta noche.
    I'm thinking about going to the cinema tonight.
  • ¿Qué piensas hacer este fin de semana?
    What are you thinking of doing this weekend?
  • Pensaba que eras más alto.
    I thought you were taller.
  • Piensa antes de hablar.
    Think before you speak.

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'to think' in Spanish?
The most common way to say 'to think' in Spanish is 'pensar'.
How do you pronounce 'pensar' in Spanish?
It's pronounced pen-SAR, with the stress on the second syllable. The 's' is pronounced like the 's' in 'sing'.
How do you use 'pensar' in a sentence?
You can use 'pensar' with 'que' (that) to express an opinion (Pienso que tienes razón - I think you're right), or with 'en' (in/about/of) to express that you're considering something (Estoy pensando en comprar un coche nuevo - I'm thinking about buying a new car).
What is the English translation of 'pensar'?
The English translation of 'pensar' is 'to think'.
Does 'pensar' change for gender or number?
No, 'pensar' conjugates according to the subject pronoun, but it doesn't change for gender or number.
Is 'pensar' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'pensar' is an extremely common verb used in everyday Spanish conversations.
Does 'pensar' have slang or double meanings?
While 'pensar' itself doesn't have many slang meanings, the phrases and contexts in which it's used can sometimes add nuance. For example, '¿Qué piensas hacer?' can be a genuine question or a slightly challenging one, depending on the tone.
Is 'pensar' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
The usage of 'pensar' is largely the same across Spain and Latin America.
How do you conjugate 'pensar' in Spanish?
Here's the present tense conjugation: Yo pienso Tú piensas Él/Ella/Usted piensa Nosotros/Nosotras pensamos Vosotros/Vosotras pensáis Ellos/Ellas/Ustedes piensan

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "pensar"

Synonyms: creer, considerar, reflexionar

💡 Did You Know?

Pensar literally comes from the Latin word 'pensare,' which means 'to weigh' or 'to ponder.' This suggests the act of carefully considering something, like weighing options on a scale.

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