How to say “what do you think” like a native speaker
Ask for someone's opinion. Add “about” and a topic when the subject is not already clear.
All phrases · Workplace
Hear “what do you think” in real speech
Clip 1 · Patrick Winston (MIT)
How to Speak · 45:24
About this video
Patrick Winston teaches a lecture about speaking and communicating ideas. He discusses the role of knowledge and practice, and uses presentation slides to illustrate choices that help or hinder an audience.
In context
And then I said to them, how long does a candidate have to establish these two things?What do you think?
Well, compare your answer to theirs.
Clip 2 · Derek Sivers
The "good enough" life choice : Derek Sivers at TEDxTaipei 2012 · 5:34
About this video
Derek Sivers talks about choosing a life that feels good enough rather than following a single expected path. He invites audience participation and discusses trying unfamiliar experiences, including moving to another country.
In context
So, let's say life is choice.What do you think? Pretty good argument?
OK, everybody, I need you to sing the note again. Hummm.
Clip 3 · VOA Learning English
Bald Eagle, Blue Ghost, Knitting at Movies, Feedback · 28:43
About this video
The VOA Learning English presenters introduce stories about the bald eagle, the Blue Ghost lunar mission, knitting at cinemas and feedback. The programme opens by discussing the bald eagle's recovery after its numbers had fallen.
In context
What animal did Anna notice?And what do you think Anna will do next?
You can bet it's going to be silly to find out.
When to use “what do you think”
- Asking about a draft: “I've shortened the introduction. What do you think?”
- Discussing a possible purchase: “What do you think about this sofa?”
Common learner mistake
For an opinion, ask “What do you think about it?”, not “How do you think about it?”
Possible connected-speech patterns in “what do you think”
“Do you” can be compressed in quick speech, sometimes with a J-like joining sound. Keep the TH in “think” clear.
Related phrases
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You don't need to speak fast.
A slow line to begin with: listen to how “don’t need to” runs together, then say it at the speaker’s pace.
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