Pensare a vs. Pensare di
The verb pensare in Italian can be used with two different prepositions: “di” or “a”. These two constructions have different meanings and are not interchangeable. So when to use one or another preposition? Let’s see together!
Pensare a – to think about someone or something
When we use “pensare a”, we refer to the act of imagining (directing our thoughts toward) someone or something. It expresses the object of our thoughts.
Examples:
- Penso spesso a mia nonna che vive in Italia – I often think about my grandmother who lives in Italy.
- L’insegnante pensa ai suoi studenti – The teacher thinks about his students.
- Devo pensare al mio futuro – I need to think about my future.
- Penso sempre all’Italia – I always think about Italy.
In these cases, “pensare a” indicates that the person, place, or thing is the object of thought.
Pensare di (expressing intention/opinion)
When we use “pensare di”, we introduce an intention, an opinion, or a supposition. This construction is followed by a verb in the infinitive.
Examples:
- Penso di andare al cinema stasera. – I think of going to the movies tonight. (intention)
- Cosa pensi di lui? – What do you think of him? (opinion)
- Penso di aver capito il problema. – I think I have understood the problem. (opinion)
- Cosa pensate di fare quest’estate? – What do you think of doing next summer? (intention)
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The Difference in Short
Let’s compare the two constructions with similar examples to better understand the difference:
- Pensare a + noun/pronoun:
- Penso a te – I’m thinking about you. (I am thinking about you in my mind)
- Pensare di + verb in the infinitive:
- Penso di chiamarti domani. – I think of calling you tomorrow. (I intend to call you tomorrow)
