I think really

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I think really" is not standard in written English and may sound awkward or incomplete.
It can be used informally to emphasize a thought or opinion, but it is better to use it in a more complete context. Example: "I think really that we should reconsider our approach to this project."

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Sometimes I think really hard about not thinking.

Vice

"I think, really, it was a refuge.

The New York Times - Arts

I think, really, it's the same reason I do anything.

Independent

David said, "Gregory — I think, really — you are getting tired".

The New Yorker

I think really it's a few moves.

The New York Times - Sports

"I think really it could work in other countries".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

I think, really, the determining factor is who pitches well.

The New York Times

But I think, really, all the past is with us.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I was able to establish the fastball and I think really kept them uncomfortable," Collmenter said.

The New York Times

"I think really in my heart I didn't want it," Mr. Johnson said.

The New York Times

"His combination of incisiveness and decisiveness, I think, really explained his success," Mr. Capps says.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I think really" sparingly in spoken English to emphasize a point, but be aware that some listeners may perceive it as slightly redundant.

Common error

Avoid using "I think really" excessively, as it can make your speech or writing sound repetitive and less confident. Vary your phrasing to maintain the reader's or listener's interest.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I think really" functions primarily as a qualifier or emphasizer of an opinion. It is used to convey a sense of conviction or sincerity. Ludwig examples shows it used in various contexts, but is flagged as non standard.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I think really" is frequently used, particularly in news and media, to emphasize an opinion or belief. While Ludwig AI identifies it as acceptable, it also points out it may not be considered standard or grammatically ideal due to potential redundancy. For more formal contexts, alternatives such as "I honestly think" or "I truly believe" are often preferred. Overusing "I think really" can weaken your writing, so use it judiciously to maintain clarity and impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I really do think

Adds emphasis through repetition, reinforcing the thought.

I honestly think

Adds an element of honesty and frankness to the thought.

I truly believe

Emphasizes the sincerity and depth of the belief or opinion.

I actually think

Indicates that the thought might be surprising or contrary to expectations.

I genuinely feel

Highlights the authenticity of the feeling or opinion.

In my honest opinion

Introduces a candid and unreserved viewpoint.

I sincerely believe

Underscores the earnestness of the speaker's conviction.

I strongly believe

Conveys a robust and firm conviction.

I am of the opinion

Offers a more formal and considered expression of the thought.

It is my belief that

Presents the thought as a personal conviction or principle.

FAQs

What's a more formal way to say "I think really"?

In formal contexts, consider alternatives like "I honestly think", "I sincerely believe", or "I am of the opinion" for a more polished and professional tone.

Is "I think really" grammatically incorrect?

While not strictly ungrammatical, "I think really" can sound redundant to some. It's often better to choose a more concise phrasing, such as "I really think" or simply "I think", depending on the intended emphasis.

How can I emphasize my opinion without using "I think really"?

You can use adverbs like "honestly", "sincerely", or "truly" to add emphasis. For example, "I truly believe", or "I honestly feel".

What's the difference between "I think really" and "I really think"?

"I really think" is generally considered more grammatically sound and widely accepted. "I think really" may sound slightly awkward or less polished, though its meaning is generally understood.