Introduction
In this blog post, we will learn how to use past tense short forms with -と思います (-to omoimasu) to express what you think happened in the past. This structure helps you convey your thoughts and beliefs about past events in Japanese.
What It Means
Just like in the present tense, you use the past tense short form with -と思います (-to omoimasu) to report what you think took place in the past. This combination allows you to share your thoughts on past events.
When You Use It
Use this structure when you want to express your thoughts or beliefs about something that happened in the past.
Examples
去年の夏はあまり暑くなかったと思います。(Kyonen no natsu wa amari atsuku nakatta to omoimasu.) – I don’t think last summer was very hot. (= I think last summer was not very hot.)
Conversation
あ、私のケーキがない。(A, watashi no keeki ga nai.) – Hey, my cake is gone!
マイクさんが食べたと思います。(Maiku-san ga tabeta to omoimasu.) – I think Mike ate it.
Note
Be careful not to use -と思いました (-to omoimashita) instead of -と思います (-to omoimasu). Using -と思いました implies that you thought something in the past but no longer think so now, which changes the meaning.
Conclusion
Using past tense short forms with -と思います (-to omoimasu) allows you to naturally express your thoughts about past events in Japanese.
