What it means
と marks the content of a thought, belief, statement, or similar mental or verbal action. In this use, it corresponds to “that” in English and usually follows a plain-form clause before verbs such as 思う, 言う, or 考える. With nouns and na-adjectives, the plain copula だ normally remains before と.
Usage note
Do not confuse this と with the conditional と meaning “when” or “if.” In polite sentences, the clause before と usually stays in plain form; politeness is normally shown in the following verb, such as 思います.
How to use it
この建物は図書館だと思います。
I think this building is a library.
山の道は安全だと思います。
I think the mountain path is safe.
この料理は辛いと思います。
I think this dish is spicy.
田中さんは来週大阪へ行くと思います。
I think Tanaka will go to Osaka next week.
この建物は図書館だと思う。
I think this building is a library.
山の道は安全だと思う。
I think the mountain path is safe.
この料理は辛いと思う。
I think this dish is spicy.
田中さんは来週大阪へ行くと思う。
I think Tanaka will go to Osaka next week.
Example sentences
来月の試験は難しいと思います。
I think next month's exam will be difficult.
田中さんは来週の会議に参加すると思います。
I think Tanaka will participate in next week's meeting.
この町の図書館は静かだと思います。
I think this town's library is quiet.
姉