I prefer to think

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I prefer to think" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a personal inclination or belief about a particular topic or situation. Example: "I prefer to think that everyone has good intentions, even when their actions suggest otherwise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

But I prefer to think it's metaphorical.

The New Yorker

"I prefer to think of it as a promotion".

The New York Times

I prefer to think of us as dissatisfied customers".

The New Yorker

I prefer to think of it as an interesting obsession.

The Guardian

I prefer to think of myself as a natural optimist.

The Guardian

I prefer to think of it as love.

The New Yorker

I prefer to think of us as being wilfully optimistic".

The Guardian

I prefer to think of it as transcendence.

The Guardian - Music

"I prefer to think of it as an opportunity".

The New York Times

"I prefer to think in seasons," Mr. Lobb said.

The New York Times

I prefer to think of it as the summer of the body scanner.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing "I prefer to think", ensure that the alternative viewpoint you're presenting is reasonable and justifiable. This strengthens your argument and makes your preference more persuasive.

Common error

Avoid using "I prefer to think" simply to dismiss a valid concern or fact. Ensure there is a logical basis for your preferred interpretation to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I prefer to think" serves as an introductory expression signaling a speaker's or writer's personal inclination or chosen perspective. It is commonly used to present an alternative interpretation or a more optimistic view of a situation, as evidenced by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I prefer to think" is a commonly used expression to introduce a personal inclination or viewpoint, often to present a more favorable interpretation of a situation. As Ludwig highlights, it is grammatically correct and frequently found in news and media contexts. While versatile, it's crucial to use it judiciously, ensuring the preferred interpretation is reasonable. Alternatives like "I'd rather believe" or "I'm inclined to think" can offer similar nuances. This phrase is a valuable tool for expressing subjective opinions and adding a personal touch to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I'm more inclined to think

Highlights a stronger inclination toward a specific thought or idea.

I'd rather believe

Expresses a preference for a particular belief or viewpoint, similar to preferring a thought.

My preference is to believe

States a clear preference for holding a particular belief.

I'd like to imagine

Emphasizes the act of visualizing or imagining something as a preferred alternative.

I'm inclined to believe

Indicates a leaning towards a certain belief, suggesting a preference in thought.

I choose to believe

Emphasizes the deliberate choice to hold a certain belief.

I'd rather assume

Shows a preference for making a certain assumption over another.

I'm inclined to consider

Highlights a tendency or leaning towards a specific consideration.

I tend to consider

Expresses a habitual way of thinking or considering something.

I like to consider

Indicates a fondness for a specific way of thinking or considering something.

FAQs

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

Use "I prefer to think" to introduce your own interpretation or belief about a topic, often as a counterpoint to another perspective. For example, "Some might see it as a failure, but "I prefer to think" of it as a learning experience".

What are some alternatives to "I prefer to think"?

You can use alternatives like "I'd rather believe", "I like to imagine", or "I'm inclined to think" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "I prefer to think"?

It's appropriate when you want to express a personal preference in interpretation, often to present a more positive or favorable viewpoint than what is commonly perceived.

What's the difference between "I prefer to think" and "I tend to think"?

"I prefer to think" indicates a conscious choice of belief or interpretation, while "I tend to think" suggests a habitual or natural inclination in thought. The former is a deliberate preference, the latter is a disposition.