I like to think

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I like to think" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express the idea that you enjoy considering something or that you take time to think. For example, "I like to think about the future and the possibilities it may bring."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I like to think positive.

Independent

Or so I like to think.

The New York Times

"I like to think big," he said.

The New York Times

But I like to think he is.

The New York Times

"I like to think I complement it".

The New York Times

"I like to think I am.

The Guardian

"I like to think he didn't.

The New York Times - Sports

(Though I like to think they do).

The New Yorker

A. Well, I like to think so.

The New York Times

"I like to think it comes from him.

The New York Times

"I like to think the best of people.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I like to think" to express a personal viewpoint or assumption, especially when you want to convey a sense of hope or optimism.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "I like to think" as it can make your writing sound repetitive. Vary your sentence structure and use synonyms to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I like to think" functions as a hedge, softening the assertion that follows. It expresses a personal opinion, belief, or assumption, rather than stating a fact. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with numerous examples demonstrating its role in expressing subjective viewpoints.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I like to think" is a common phrase used to introduce a personal belief, hope, or assumption. Ludwig AI validates this, demonstrating its frequent use across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While grammatically correct and widely accepted, it's best to avoid overusing the phrase and to consider more formal alternatives in certain settings. Remember to use it when conveying a subjective viewpoint or expressing optimism, as highlighted by the examples provided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I am inclined to think

Highlights a predisposition or leaning toward a particular thought.

My belief is that

Directly states one's conviction or faith in something.

I tend to believe

Emphasizes a habitual inclination to believe something.

I hold the view that

Expresses a firmly held opinion or perspective.

I prefer to believe

Indicates a conscious choice to hold a certain belief, possibly over other options.

I'm under the impression

Expresses a subjective feeling or sense about something.

I am of the opinion that

Presents a formal statement of one's personal opinion.

It is my understanding

Focuses on comprehension or interpretation of information.

I would like to assume

Suggests a willingness to accept something as true, even without proof.

I am wont to think

Uses a less common, more formal way to express a habitual thought.

FAQs

How can I use "I like to think" in a sentence?

Use "I like to think" to introduce a personal belief, hope, or interpretation. For example, "I like to think we're making progress, even if it's slow."

What phrases are similar to "I like to think"?

You can use phrases like "I tend to believe", "I am inclined to think", or "my belief is that" to express a similar idea.

Is it too informal to use "I like to think" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, consider more formal alternatives like "I am of the opinion that" or "it is my understanding" in highly formal contexts to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "I like to think" and "I hope"?

"I like to think" suggests a personal inclination to believe something, while "I hope" expresses a desire for something to happen. The former is about belief; the latter is about anticipation.