I think I think

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I think I think" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to express a level of uncertainty or contemplation about one's own thoughts or beliefs. Example: "After much consideration, I think I think that pursuing this project is the right decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

I think, I think.

The New York Times

I think, I think.. I think many things".

The New Yorker

I think, I think I should be here".

The Guardian

But actually, I think I think like a bloke.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Let me see, then, let me see – I think – I think – I think-a-pink-a-pink – no bid.

The Guardian

GINGRICH: I, I think that, I think, I think that that is too big a jump.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

I think I thought it would have felt more like a victory, but it doesn't.

Independent

"I think I thought that was something that very clever, born to rule people did.

The Guardian

"They were a better team than I think I thought they were," Landon Donovan said.

The New York Times - Sports

I think I thought some of the captains were on a jolly.

The Guardian - Sport

In my head, I think, I thought it was your house, too.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "I think I think" sparingly, as it can sound repetitive and may weaken your statement. Consider if a single "I think" or a more direct expression would be clearer.

Common error

Avoid using "I think I think" multiple times in close proximity. This can make your writing sound unsure and unfocused. Vary your phrasing to maintain clarity and confidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I think I think" primarily functions as an introductory phrase used to express hesitation, contemplation, or uncertainty about one's own thoughts. It often signals that the speaker is still processing an idea, as Ludwig examples demonstrate.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I think I think" is a grammatically correct expression used to convey contemplation or uncertainty. While Ludwig's examples demonstrate its usage across various contexts such as News & Media and Science, it should be used sparingly to avoid sounding repetitive. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is acceptable in written English, but careful consideration should be given to whether a more direct expression would be clearer. Consider alternatives like "I believe I believe" or restructuring your sentence for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I believe I believe

Replaces "think" with "believe" for a slightly more assertive but still hesitant tone.

I suppose I suppose

Uses "suppose" to indicate uncertainty or a tentative opinion.

I guess I guess

Similar to "suppose" but slightly more informal, expressing a lack of certainty.

If I had to guess, I'd say

Expresses a hesitant opinion while acknowledging it's a guess.

My thinking is, my thinking is

Rephrases the structure to emphasize the speaker's thought process.

What I think, I think

Inverts the structure to emphasize the speaker's viewpoint.

I'm inclined to think, I'm inclined to think

Uses "inclined to think" for a more formal and careful expression of opinion.

It's my understanding, it's my understanding

Shifts the focus to the speaker's understanding rather than direct thinking.

If I were to speculate, I'd say

Introduces a speculative element, indicating the opinion is not firmly held.

On reflection, I believe

Implies a prior thought followed by a more resolute belief.

FAQs

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

Use "I think I think" to express a sense of contemplation or uncertainty about your own thoughts. It's suitable when you want to convey that you're still processing an idea.

Are there alternatives to using "I think I think"?

Yes, depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "I believe I believe", "I suppose I suppose", or rephrase your sentence to be more direct.

Is "I think I think" grammatically correct?

Yes, "I think I think" is grammatically correct, although it may sound repetitive. It's important to use it judiciously to avoid weakening your statement.

How can I avoid sounding repetitive when using "I think"?

To avoid sounding repetitive, try to vary your sentence structure and use synonyms for "think", such as "believe", "suppose", or "reckon". Also, consider whether you need to state "I think" at all, or if the opinion is clear from the context.