What does it mean word for word?
The word Acho comes from the verb achar, which literally means "to find". However, when used to express an opinion, it translates to "to think" or "to believe".
Which one should you use?
There is a distinction between acho and penso. Use acho when expressing an opinion, a guess or a belief. Use penso when you are referring to the actual mental process of thinking or engaging in deep reflection.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Brazil, the phrase Acho que não is used to imply disagreement or uncertainty, translating to "I don't think so".
How does it change in a sentence?
Acho is the first-person singular present indicative of the verb achar. Because the verb ending already indicates the subject, the subject pronoun Eu is often omitted. To say "I think so" in response to a question, use the specific phrase Acho que sim rather than a literal translation of the word "so". To say "I don't think so", use Acho que não.
When do people say it?
In Brazilian Portuguese, you may hear the informal phrase Pra mim when someone is sharing their thoughts. While it does not explicitly mean "I think", it serves a similar purpose in conversation.
Did you know?
- Using Acho carries a stronger sense of 'guessing' or 'uncertainty' than the English 'I think' does.
- In Brazil, the phrase Pra mim, which literally means 'For me', is a common way to start an opinion instead of saying 'I think'.
- If you use penso instead of Acho to express a simple opinion, you might sound like you are describing a deep, heavy philosophical meditation rather than just a casual thought.
Examples in context
- Eu acho que sim.I think so.This sentence shows how to say "I think so" using Acho.Tatoeba #411538 by brauliobezerra, translation #254072 by CK
- Acho que Tom riu.I think Tom laughed.This sentence demonstrates using Acho to express a thought about a past action.Tatoeba #13080553 by Castro5432, translation #7110722 by CM
- Acho que fará sol.I think it will be sunny.This sentence shows using Acho to express a belief about the weather.Tatoeba #1272005 by alexmarcelo, translation #271543 by CC
- Eu acredito que o projeto será um sucesso.I think the project will be a success.
- Na minha opinião, essa é uma decisão acertada.In my opinion, that's a good decision.
- Acho que vamos nos divertir nesta festa.I think we'll have fun at this party.
- Eu acho que deveríamos ir ao cinema.I think we should go to the movies.
- Acho que sim, você está certo.I think so, you are right.
- Acho que não, isso não vai funcionar.I don't think so, that won't work.
- 3052 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Gabriel and Beatriz are discussing their plans for the weekend.
- GabrielAcho que vai chover hoje.I think it will rain today.
- BeatrizVocê acha que o parque estará fechado?Do you think the park will be closed?
- GabrielAcho que não, Beatriz.I don't think so, Beatriz.
- BeatrizEntão vamos tentar ir.Then let's try to go.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
