Translation guide
To consider something carefully before making a decision or forming an opinion.
To take time to think about something thoroughly, often before deciding.
The most common and neutral way to say 'think over' or 'think carefully'. Used in everyday conversation.
その提案についてよく考えてみます。
I'll think over the proposal.
よく考えたほうがいいよ。
You should think it over carefully.
To think back on something that happened, often to understand it better.
Means 'look back and think', used for reflecting on past experiences or events.
今日の出来事を振り返って考えた。
I thought over the events of today.
To think about something in a leisurely or dreamy way, often without urgency.
The phrase 'think over' cannot be directly translated word-for-word into Japanese. Instead, use adverbs like よく or じっくり with 考える, or specific verbs like 熟考する.
A more formal term meaning 'deliberate' or 'ponder'. Suitable for serious or official contexts.
彼はその問題を熟考した。
He thought over the problem carefully.
Implies taking one's time to think deeply and thoroughly, without rushing.
もう少しじっくり考えさせてください。
Please let me think it over a bit more.
Literally 'rethink', often used when reconsidering a previous decision or opinion.
その計画は考え直したほうがいい。
You should think over that plan again.
Means 'reflect' or 'self-examine', often with a nuance of regret or learning from mistakes.
自分の行動を反省した。
I thought over my actions.
Literally 'let thoughts wander', used for pondering various aspects of a matter. Somewhat literary.
彼は将来について思い巡らした。
He thought over his future.