methinks
Definition
- Verb (impersonal, archaic):
- It seems to me: "methinks" is an archaic or poetic verb meaning "it appears to me" or "I think." It is used impersonally, typically followed by a clause or "that" clause, to express one's own opinion or perception.
Usage Examples
- (It seems to me that the lady protests too much.)
- (I think it is time to leave.)
- (It appears to me that he is not telling the truth.)
Advanced Usage
In literary or poetic contexts: "Methinks" is almost exclusively found in older English literature, such as the works of Shakespeare, or in modern writing that deliberately imitates an archaic style.
- Methinks I see a strange vision before me. (It seems to me that I see a strange vision.)
As a standalone expression: Occasionally used humorously or ironically in modern speech to sound old-fashioned.
- Methinks you are being overly dramatic. (I think you are being overly dramatic.)
Variants and Related Words
Methought (verb, past tense): The past tense of "methinks," meaning "it seemed to me."
- Methought I heard a voice calling. (It seemed to me that I heard a voice calling.)
Think (verb): The modern equivalent, used actively rather than impersonally.
- I think it is time to go. (Compare: Methinks it is time to go.)
Synonyms
- It seems to me: a modern, non-archaic equivalent.
- I believe: expressing personal opinion.
- I reckon: informal, meaning "I think."
Related Idioms
- Methinks the lady doth protest too much: A famous line from Shakespeare's , used to suggest that someone's strong denial indicates the opposite is true.
- When he insisted he wasn't angry, I thought, "Methinks the lady doth protest too much." (His excessive denial made me suspect he was angry.)