Pensar vs. creer vs. opinar
In the Spanish language, three verbs are commonly used to express thought: 'pensar', 'creer', and 'opinar'. These verbs have similar meanings but are used in different contexts.
Pensar
The verb 'pensar' translates to 'think' in English. It is frequently used for expressing a thought or an idea that is forming or has formed in your mind.
Estoy pensando en comer pizza para la cena.
(I'm thinking about having pizza for dinner.)
Ella piensa que es una buena persona.
(She thinks that she's a good person.)
Creer
'Creer' can be translated as 'to believe'. It typically implies maintaining or accepting something as true, often based on a premise or evidence, and may carry a sense of conviction.
Creo en los fantasmas.
(I believe in ghosts.)
Ella cree que obtendrá el trabajo.
(She believes that she will get the job.)
Opinar
'Opinar' is closest in English to the phrase 'to be of the opinion'. It is generally used when expressing a personal viewpoint or judgment about something.
Mi padre opina que debo ir a la universidad.
(My father reckons that I should go to university.)
¿Qué opinas del nuevo profesor?
(What do you reckon about the new teacher?)
Summary
While 'pensar', 'creer', and 'opinar' all involve some form of thinking or believing, their usage depends on the context. 'Pensar' generally involves thinking in terms of potential action or self-reflection. Meanwhile, 'creer' tends to indicate a belief in something as true based on certain evidence. Finally, 'opinar' is most often used when expressing a personal opinion on a specific matter.