Glauben vs Denken

I understand that “Glauben” can be translated to “to belive” and “denken” can be translated to “to think”. Would you only use “belive” in sentences about assessing whether something is true or not?
 

Hi RexV, 

No, glauben can also be translated as "to think" in some situations:
Ich glaube, es wird morgen regnen. - I think it's going to rain tomorrow.

It can also mean "to believe":
Ich glaube an den Osterhasen. - I believe in the Easter bunny. 

Best, 
Leah



 

Hi, thanks for the answer.

You mention that "Glauben" also means "to think" in some situations.

When should you use either "Glauben" or "Denken" when writing "to think" in a sentence?

Hi RexV, 

Both words can be used interchangeably. 

"Glauben" would be a bit more emotional than "denken". 
Same as with "believe" and "think" in English.

Best, 
Leah

I see.

Can you give me an "emotional example" for "Glauben" in order to show the difference to "denken" when talking about "thinking".

Hi RexV, 

Sure, here are two examples:

Ich glaube, dass wir das schaffen können! - "I believe that we can make it!" (emotional)
Ich denke, ich werde morgen nach Berlin fahren. - "I think I'm going to go to Berlin tomorrow." (rational)

Think of it the same way as "I believe..." (emotional) and "I think..." (rational) in English. 

I hope this helps. 

Beste Grüße, 
Leah