Both “å synes” and “å tro” can be translated into “think” in English, but the meanings of these two expressions are different in Norwegian. This article will explain the difference between “å synes” og “å tro.”
Å tro
“Å tro” is used when one wants to express belief about something, but there is some uncertainty. Thus, we use “å tro” when we are not entirely sure about something.
Examples
Jeg tror at det kommer til å bli fint være i neste uke.
I think (believe) it will be nice weather next week.
Han tror Norge kommer til å vinne fotballkampen.
He thinks (believes) that Norway will win the soccer game.
De er ikke hjemme. Jeg tror de er på ferie.
They are not at home. I think (believe) they are on vacation.
Å synes
“Å synes” expresses a personal opinion based on experience or feeling. You use the expression when there is something you have experienced and then tell your feeling about it.
Examples
Jeg synes at sommeren i Norge er fantastisk!
I think that the summer in Norway is excellent!
Comment: You have experienced the summer in Norway, and you really like it.
Han synes at filmen var dårlig.
He thinks the movie was bad.
Comment: He has seen the movie and thinks it is not good.
Jeg synes det er viktig å lære norsk.
I think it is vital to learn Norwegian.
Comment: You have thought about Norwegian as a language and now believe that learning the language is essential.
