Glauben vs Denken

RexV

RexV

April 18, 2019

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?
Leah-Rocket-German-Tutor

Leah-Rocket-German-Tutor

April 24, 2019

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



RexV

RexV

April 24, 2019

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?
Leah-Rocket-German-Tutor

Leah-Rocket-German-Tutor

May 8, 2019

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
RexV

RexV

May 26, 2019

I see.

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

Leah-Rocket-German-Tutor

May 27, 2019

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

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