Pensarci

Pensarci is an Italian pronominal verb formed from pensare (to think) with the clitic pronoun ci, used to express the idea of thinking about a matter, considering a proposal, or giving it some thought. The ci component can refer to the issue at hand and functions as an object-like complement, producing the sense “to think about it” or “to think it over.”

Usage and grammar

Pensarci is mainly used in informal speech and everyday conversation. It can be conjugated in all tenses like pensare, with ci placed before the verb or attached to the infinitive in compound forms. Common imperatives include Pensaci! (Think about it!) and Non ci pensare. A related construction is pensarci su, which explicitly emphasizes thorough consideration: Dobbiamo pensarci su prima di decidere.

Examples

- Ci penso domani. (I’ll think about it tomorrow.)

- Sì, ci ho pensato. (Yes, I’ve thought about it.)

- Non ci pensare troppo. (Don’t think about it too much.)

- Pensaci bene prima di rispondere. (Think about it well before you respond.)

Nuances and context

Pensarci often implies a deliberative or hesitating stance, signaling that a decision or judgment will come after reflection. In formal writing, speakers may opt for less colloquial alternatives such as riflettere su, considerare, or valutare, while pensa that the fused form remains a staple of spoken Italian.

See also

pensare, riflettere, considerare, pensare su.