I thought otherwise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I thought otherwise" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a different opinion or belief than what was previously stated or assumed. Example: "When I first heard the news, I thought it was a good idea, but after considering the consequences, I thought otherwise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

You wouldn't be here if I thought otherwise.

Huffington Post

I know she thought she was a reincarnation of Sarah Bernhardt but I thought otherwise.

Huffington Post

I would not have done this, had I thought otherwise.

EU Parlament

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

But I think otherwise.

The New Yorker

I think otherwise.

The New York Times - Arts

Now I think otherwise.

The New York Times - Arts

"I think otherwise you're very arrogant.

The New York Times

As for the claim that "comfortable isolation" makes the American novelist uneasy, I think otherwise.

The New York Times - Books

I deeply regret that anyone has got the impression that I think otherwise".

The Guardian

That's quite key I think, otherwise it's a sign of weakness".

The Guardian

I think otherwise they would probably have killed him," the witness added.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I thought otherwise" to clearly indicate a change in your opinion or belief after further consideration. For example, "Initially, I supported the plan, but after reviewing the data, "I thought otherwise"".

Common error

Avoid using "I thought otherwise" without clearly establishing the initial thought or belief you are contrasting it with. Ensure the context makes it clear what you previously believed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I thought otherwise" functions as a declarative statement expressing a change of mind or a differing opinion from a previous belief or what someone else believes. It indicates a shift in perspective.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Encyclopedias

7%

Academia

6%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I thought otherwise" is a grammatically sound phrase used to express a change in opinion or a differing belief. While not extremely common, as indicated by Ludwig, it is used in a variety of contexts, including news, science, and formal settings. The phrase is considered neutral in register, making it appropriate for various audiences. When using "I thought otherwise", ensure the context clearly indicates the initial thought or belief being contrasted. If a more formal tone is required, consider alternatives such as "I held a different opinion" or "I came to a different conclusion".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I had a different opinion

Focuses on having a differing viewpoint.

I believed differently

Emphasizes a difference in belief.

My perspective was different

Highlights the difference in point of view.

I didn't agree with that

Directly expresses disagreement.

I took a contrary view

Suggests a more formal disagreement or debate.

I saw it another way

Highlights an alternative interpretation.

I held an opposing view

Indicates a firmly held, contrasting opinion.

I came to a different conclusion

Emphasizes the process of reaching a different decision.

I differed in my opinion

Formally states a difference in opinion.

I dissented from that view

Highlights a formal or strong disagreement.

FAQs

How can I use "I thought otherwise" in a sentence?

Use "I thought otherwise" to express that your opinion or belief changed after further consideration or new information. For example, "At first, I was skeptical, but after seeing the results, "I thought otherwise".

What's a more formal way to say "I thought otherwise"?

For a more formal tone, consider phrases like "I held a different opinion" or "I came to a different conclusion". These alternatives offer a more sophisticated way to express disagreement or a change in perspective.

What can I say instead of "I thought otherwise" to show disagreement?

To show disagreement, you can use phrases such as "I didn't agree with that", "I disagreed", or "I took a contrary view" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "I think otherwise" instead of "I thought otherwise"?

Yes, both phrases are correct but have slightly different uses. "I think otherwise" expresses your current, differing opinion. "I thought otherwise" indicates that your opinion changed at some point in the past.