pensare
/penˈsaːre/
Definition
To think about something, or to hold an opinion or belief about it.
Example
Penso che domani andrà meglio di oggi.
Show translation
I think tomorrow will go better than today.
Etymology
From Latin *pensāre*, "to weigh carefully," a frequentative of *pendere* ("to weigh, hang"). The shift from physical weighing to mental deliberation mirrors the same metaphor in English "to ponder."
Cultural note
Italians often use *pensare* with the preposition *a* (pensare **a** qualcuno/qualcosa — to think **of/about** someone/something) and with *che* + subjunctive for opinions (penso **che sia** bello). Don't confuse it with *pensare di fare* ("to plan/intend to do something"), a common construction that trips up learners: *Penso di venire* means "I'm thinking of coming," not just "I think I'll come."