i think however

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I think however" is not correct as it stands and is not typically used in written English.
It can be used when introducing a contrasting idea or opinion, but it should be structured properly, often as "I think, however," or "However, I think." Example: "I think, however, that we should consider other options before making a final decision."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I think however I can seduce them to my way of thinking before the day is out," Tuthill wrote, assuring his client that the architect was looking out for his financial interests.

The New York Times

I think, however, that this picture will change.

Harvard Business Review

I think, however,that it's simpler than she suggests.

The New York Times

I think, however, that I gave it too much weight.

The New York Times

I think, however, that it is pretty clear that this standard view is false.

Harvard University

I think, however, that a policy has emerged to some degree by default.

The New Yorker

I think, however, that he understates just how widespread the model is now.

The Times

"I think, however, that we're talking about a much more complex issue today," says Keyworth.

The Guardian - Business

"I think, however, relying on the lottery is a very risky proposition".

The New York Times

I think, however, it's a bit too High Church to insist that you must "share your toothbrush".

The New Yorker

I think, however, this is but the start of a process of widespread constitutional reform across the United Kingdom.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming to express a contrasting thought after stating your opinion, ensure clarity and grammatical correctness by using "I think, however,", with a comma separating "think" and "however". This ensures a smoother transition and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

A common mistake is to omit the comma after "think" when using "however" to introduce a contrasting idea. This can create a run-on sentence. Always remember to separate "I think" and "however" with a comma for better readability and grammatical accuracy.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I think however" functions as a connector to introduce a contrasting or qualifying statement. While it expresses a personal viewpoint, it is often used to present an opposing perspective or limitation to a previous statement. As Ludwig AI indicates, it requires a comma for grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

30%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I think however" is frequently used to introduce a contrasting thought or opinion. However, as Ludwig AI points out, it's grammatically incorrect without a comma: "I think, however,". It appears across various contexts, including News & Media, Academia, and Science, but requires careful attention to punctuation for formal writing. To enhance clarity and professionalism, consider alternatives like "I think nonetheless" or "in my opinion though".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I think nonetheless

Replaces "however" with "nonetheless" for a more formal tone, indicating a contrast despite the previous statement.

I believe nevertheless

Substitutes "think" with "believe" and "however" with "nevertheless", conveying a strong sense of conviction despite a contrasting point.

In my opinion though

Uses "in my opinion" to soften the statement and "though" to introduce the contrasting element, making it less direct.

That being said I think

Introduces a contrasting point after acknowledging a previous one, providing a transition.

Having said that I believe

Similar to "that being said", but replaces "think" with "believe" for added emphasis and conviction.

I still think

Emphasizes the continuation of a thought despite conflicting information or opinions.

I maintain that

Expresses a firm and unwavering belief, often in the face of opposition.

I consider however

Uses "consider" as a more reflective and thoughtful alternative to "think", suggesting careful deliberation.

Nonetheless I feel

Combines "nonetheless" for contrast with "I feel" to express a personal sentiment despite the previous point.

However I see it

Highlights a personal perspective or interpretation that contrasts with other views.

FAQs

What is the correct way to use "I think" with "however"?

The grammatically correct way is to include a comma: "I think, however,". The "however" acts as an interrupter, and needs to be offset by commas.

What are some alternatives to saying "I think however"?

You can use alternatives such as "I think nonetheless", "I believe nevertheless", or "in my opinion though" to express a contrasting thought more clearly.

Is it ever correct to omit the comma in "I think, however"?

While the omission may occur in informal speech, it is grammatically preferable to include the comma: "I think, however,". The comma improves readability and helps to separate the two distinct parts of the sentence.

How can I rephrase a sentence that uses "I think however" to sound more professional?

To sound more professional, consider restructuring the sentence. Instead of "I think however", try using phrases like "that being said I think" or "having said that I believe" to introduce the contrasting idea.