think not to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "think not to" is correct and usable in written English, though it is somewhat archaic and formal.
It can be used in contexts where one wishes to express that someone should not consider or intend to do something. Example: "I implore you, think not to abandon your dreams, for they are the essence of your spirit."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

"Brushing past a woman, a man -- it's difficult, I would think, not to have some type of sexual thinking".

The New York Times

This is something to celebrate I think, not to chastise.

The Guardian

"It makes you think not to take this for granted.

The Washington Post

He just likes his time alone, to think, not to think.

The New York Times - Sports

It would be remiss, I think, not to start with the very best".

The New York Times

I think not to be concerned about it would not be a very responsible thing to do".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

He was lucky, he thought, not to be that dog.

The New Yorker

He is thought not to have left Iran since 1989.

The Economist

His colleague is thought not to be seriously injured.

The Guardian

"It was thought not to be a good idea.

The New York Times

Moreover, sugar-alcohol catalysts are thought not to cause polymer coloration because TDDFT calculation gave no significant absorbance in visible region for them.

Polymer

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "think not to" sparingly, primarily in formal writing or when aiming for an archaic tone. In modern contexts, simpler alternatives like "do not think to" or "do not consider" are often more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "think not to" in casual conversation or informal writing. Its formality can sound stilted or pretentious in everyday situations. Opt for more natural alternatives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "think not to" functions primarily as a directive or prohibitive, suggesting that someone should avoid considering or intending a particular action. It often carries a stronger sense of command or warning. This is in line with Ludwig's analysis which labels it as correct, although relatively formal.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

30%

Books

20%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "think not to" is a grammatically sound phrase, according to Ludwig, used to express a directive against considering a certain action. While correct, it leans towards the formal and archaic side, best suited for literary works, historical contexts, or when aiming for a solemn tone. Simpler alternatives such as "do not think to" or "do not consider" are generally more appropriate in contemporary settings. As Ludwig highlights, it's important to be mindful of the context and avoid overuse in informal communication to prevent sounding stilted. Use the phrase deliberately to achieve its intended effect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

do not think to

More direct and less formal alternative.

do not consider

Emphasizes the act of considering something.

refrain from thinking to

Highlights the act of restraining oneself.

avoid thinking to

Suggests evading the act of thinking.

do not intend to

Focuses on the lack of intention.

do not plan to

Emphasizes the absence of a plan.

do not propose to

Highlights the absence of a proposal or suggestion.

discard the thought of

Suggests rejecting a thought or idea.

dismiss the idea of

Implies rejecting an idea as unworthy of consideration.

banish the thought of

Stronger emphasis on eliminating a thought.

FAQs

How can I use "think not to" in a sentence?

Use "think not to" to express a command or suggestion against considering a particular action or thought. For example, "Think not to deceive me."

What are some alternatives to "think not to"?

You can use alternatives like "do not think to", "do not consider", or "refrain from thinking to" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "think not to"?

It is appropriate to use "think not to" in formal writing, historical contexts, or when aiming for an archaic tone. In modern or informal contexts, simpler alternatives are usually preferred.

What is the tone of "think not to"?

The phrase "think not to" carries a formal and somewhat archaic tone, suggesting a sense of authority or solemnity.