νομίζω
nomízo/noˈmizo/
The English phrase "I think" is translated into Greek as νομίζω (nomízo).
νομίζω is used to express a personal opinion or a belief that something is true. You will frequently see it followed by πως, which functions like the English word "that" to introduce a subordinate clause, forming the phrase νομίζω πως (I think that).
Which one should you use?
While νομίζω is used for general opinions or guesses, the verb πιστεύω is used when expressing stronger convictions or religious and philosophical beliefs.
How does it change in a sentence?
The second person singular form νομίζεις can be used to ask "Do you think?" by adding a question mark. If you want to speak in the past tense, the imperfect form νομίζα is used to express "I thought" or "I used to think".
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /noˈmizo/.
Did you know?
- The verb νομίζω shares an ancient root with the English word 'nominate', as both originate from a concept of assigning a status or a custom to something.
- In Greek, you cannot use νομίζω to describe the physical act of thinking or brainstorming. For the mental process of reasoning, Greeks use the verb σκέφτομαι.
- The distinction between νομίζω and πιστεύω is so sharp that using the latter in a casual opinion can sound like you are making a solemn vow or a religious declaration.
Examples in context
- Νομίζω πως τα ακούω.I think I hear them.This sentence shows how to use νομίζω to express a perception.Tatoeba #5544692 by Zeus, translation #1930938 by al_ex_an_der
- Νομίζω πως του αρέσει.I think he likes her.This sentence demonstrates using νομίζω to express a belief about someone's preference.Tatoeba #5536551 by Zeus, translation #5531766 by Hybrid
- Νομίζω πως της αρέσει.I think she likes him.Tatoeba #5536553 by Zeus, translation #5531765 by Hybrid
- Θεωρώ ότι η πρότασή σας είναι σωστή.I think that your proposal is correct.
- Πιστεύω ότι αυτή η πρόταση είναι θαυμάσια.I believe that this proposal is wonderful.
- Νομίζω ότι ο καιρός θα είναι καλός αύριο.I think the weather will be good tomorrow.
- Κατά τη γνώμη μου, αυτή η ταινία είναι εξαιρετική.In my opinion, this movie is excellent.
- 173 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Kostas and Anastasia are deciding what to eat for dinner.
- Κώστας KostasΝομίζω πως η πίτσα είναι καλή ιδέα.Nomízo pos i pítsa eínai kalí idéa.I think that pizza is a good idea.
- Αναστασία AnastasiaΣυμφωνώ, είμαι πολύ πειναμένη.Symfonó, eímai polý peinaméni.I agree, I am very hungry.
- Κώστας KostasΘέλεις να παραγγείλουμε τώρα;Thélis na parangíloume tóra?Do you want to order now?
- Αναστασία AnastasiaΝαι, ας το κάνουμε.Nai, as to kánoume.Yes, let's do it.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry νομίζω, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries νομίζω, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
