I didn't think so

USAGE SUMMARY

"I didn't think so" is correct and can be used in written English
You can use it to express disagreement or disbelief, or to indicate that you disagree with a suggestion. For example, if someone asked you if you wanted to go to a party, you could respond with "I didn't think so."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

WIFE: I didn't think so.

The New Yorker

No, I didn't think so".

The New York Times

But I didn't think so.

The New York Times

Suspect No. 1: I didn't think so.

The New Yorker

I'm afraid to say, I didn't think so.

The Guardian - Opinion

I wouldn't have bothered if I didn't think so.

The Guardian - Sport

At first I didn't think so.

The New York Times

Starr replies, "I didn't think so".

The New York Times - Books

Her friend said: "I didn't think so.

The New York Times

A year ago, I didn't think so.

The Guardian - Money

But somehow, I didn't think so.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I didn't think so" to express disagreement or mild surprise when someone suggests something you find unlikely or incorrect. It's often used in response to a question or statement.

Common error

While "I didn't think so" is acceptable in many contexts, avoid using it excessively in formal writing or presentations. Opt for more direct and professional expressions of disagreement when communicating with superiors or in formal business settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I didn't think so" functions as a negative declarative clause, typically used as a response to a question or assertion. According to Ludwig AI, it expresses disagreement, disbelief, or mild surprise. It implies the speaker holds a different opinion or expectation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I didn't think so" is a very common and grammatically sound phrase used to express disagreement, disbelief, or mild surprise. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally acceptable, it's essential to consider the formality of the setting and opt for more direct expressions in formal communication. Remember to use it appropriately, conveying your differing opinion or expectation effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I don't think that's right

Expresses doubt about the accuracy or correctness of something.

I didn't believe that

Expresses disbelief, rather than disagreement or doubt.

I wasn't convinced

Indicates a lack of persuasion or agreement with a statement or idea.

I wasn't so sure

Implies uncertainty or skepticism about a particular outcome or assertion.

I doubted it

Suggests skepticism or uncertainty regarding a previous statement or assumption.

I had my doubts

Highlights pre-existing reservations about a situation or claim.

I didn't expect that

Implies a lack of anticipation or expectation, differing slightly from active disagreement.

I wouldn't have thought so

Expresses surprise or a different initial expectation.

I disagree with that

Directly states disagreement, offering a more assertive tone.

I never imagined that

Highlights the unexpected nature of an event or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "I didn't think so" in a sentence?

Use "I didn't think so" to express disagreement, disbelief, or mild surprise. For instance, in response to "Do you think it will rain today?", you might reply, "I didn't think so" if you believe the opposite.

What alternatives can I use instead of "I didn't think so"?

You can use alternatives like "I don't think that's right", "I doubted it", or "I disagree with that" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "I didn't think so" in formal communication?

While generally acceptable, "I didn't think so" may be too informal for some professional or academic settings. In such cases, more direct or polite expressions of disagreement may be preferred.

What does "I didn't think so" imply in a conversation?

"I didn't think so" usually implies that you disagree with a previous statement or suggestion, or that you anticipated a different outcome. It suggests a divergence of opinion or expectation.