Penser que/Croire que = To think that/To believe that in French

Written by Qualified French Expert Aurélie Drouard , HKH, Licence d'anglais LLCE
Last updated: 2023-01-12
Add to Notebook35 questions

Learn how to use "penser que" and "croire que" in French

Look at these sentences:

 

Vous pensez qu'elle chante bien.You think (that) she sings well.

Elle croit que les anges existent.She believes (that) angels exist.

Nous pensons que c'est une bonne idée.We think it's a good idea.

Ils croient que tu caches quelque chose.They believe you're hiding something.



ATTENTION 

When using verbs of opinions such as penser (to think) and croire (to believe) to say 'I believe that / I think that' in French, you always need to put que ('that') after them, whereas in English you can sometimes omit it.



For example: In French, you can NEVER say ''Vous pensez elle chante bien.'' or ''Elle croit les anges existent.''

 

See also the more advanced Expressing "to find" and opinions with the verb "trouver" in French  and "Penser/trouver/savoir/croire/prétendre que" are followed with indicative (L'Indicatif) in affirmative sentences BUT with subjunctive (Le Subjonctif) in negative ones

Want to make sure your French sounds confident? We’ll map your knowledge and give you free lessons to focus on your gaps and mistakes. Start your Braimap today »

Learn more about these related French grammar topics

Examples and resources

Je pense que tu es gentil.I think you're kind.
Nous pensons que c'est une bonne idée.We think it's a good idea.
Je crois que mon ami a raison.I believe my friend is right.
Ils croient que tu caches quelque chose.They believe you're hiding something.
Vous pensez qu'elle chante bien.You think (that) she sings well.
Elle croit que les anges existent.She believes (that) angels exist.
Clever stuff happening!