I don't think so (1)

This page is about the conversational phrase I don't think so (1)

Meaning

You can say this if you think something probably isn't true or possible, but you're not entirely sure.

For example

  • "Will you be back in time for the meeting?"
    "I don't think so. But I might be."

  • "Did they get married while they were away?"
    "I don't think so, but you never know. They might be keeping it a secret."

Note:
This meaning applies when there's no clear stress on any word, or if there's a slight stress on the word "think". (See "I don't think so (2)" for the meaning if the stress is on the word "I".)

Quick Quiz

He said, "Can you fix it?" and I said, "I don't think so,

a. but I might be able to."

b. but I should be able to."

c. but I mightn't be able to."
a) but I might be able to." b) but I should be able to." c) but I mightn't be able to."

Contributor: Matt Errey