What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of creo (I believe/think), que (that) and es (it is).
Which one should you use?
While creo que es is more common for expressing an opinion or belief, pienso que es is a valid alternative meaning "I think that it is". You can also use Me parece que es to imply a personal impression, which works in both formal and informal settings.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb es is the third-person singular form of ser, which is used for permanent characteristics or identity. If you are describing a temporary state or location, you must use creo que está instead of creo que es. Specifically, use creo que es for identity (it is Tom) or inherent qualities (it is red), but use creo que está for states (it is broken/it is hot).
How do you pronounce it?
/kɾeo ke es/
Did you know?
- Using creo que can sometimes trigger a change in the following verb to the subjunctive mood. If you say no creo que es, you must change it to no creo que sea to express doubt.
- Although creo que es is a common way to express a thought, the word creo comes from the same root as the English word 'creed', referring to a formal statement of belief.
- While creo que es is the direct translation, Spanish speakers often omit the 'I' entirely. In English, you must say 'I think', but in Spanish, the ending of creo already tells the listener that 'I' am the one thinking.
Examples in context
- Creo que es Tom.I think it's Tom.This sentence is useful for identifying someone using creo que es.Tatoeba #2405775 by Shishir, translation #2261988 by CK
- Creo que es verdad.I think it's true.This sentence is useful for stating a belief about the truth using creo que es.Tatoeba #1189218 by Shishir, translation #42091 by CK
- Creo que está bien.I think it's OK.This sentence is useful for expressing an opinion about a state of being using creo que está.Tatoeba #1274566 by leoruilova, translation #433884 by CK
- Creo que es una buena ideaI think it's a good idea
- Creo que es importante ayudar a los demásI think it's important to help others
- Opino que es necesario tomar medidas más estrictas contra la contaminaciónI think it's necessary to take stricter measures against pollution
- Opino que es fundamental invertir en educaciónI think it's essential to invest in education
- Me parece que es una buena soluciónI think it's a good solution
- Me parece que es un poco complicadoI think it's a bit complicated
- Creo que está bien, pero podría mejorarI think it's alright, but it could be better
- Creo que está demasiado complicado para míI think it's too complicated for me
- Para mí está muy buenoI think it's really good
- Yo creo que es la solución adecuadaI believe it's the appropriate solution
- Yo creo que es una tonteríaI think it's nonsense
- 148 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Sofía and Daniel are looking at a painting in a museum.
- Sofía¿De quién es este cuadro?Whose painting is this?
- DanielCreo que es de un artista local.I think it's by a local artist.
- SofíaEs una obra muy bonita.It is a very beautiful work.
- DanielSí, me encanta su estilo.Yes, I love its style.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
