Which one is correct?
"What do you think is that" or "What do you think that is"?

TextRanch: The best way to perfect your writing.

Discover why 1,062,726 users count on TextRanch to get their English corrected!

One of our experts will correct your English.

Our experts

100% Human-Powered Editing!

What do you think is that

This phrase is correct and commonly used when asking for someone's opinion about a specific thing.

This phrase is used to ask for someone's opinion about a particular object, situation, or concept.

Examples:

  • What do you think is that strange noise coming from the attic?
  • What do you think is that bright light in the sky?
  • What do you think is that delicious smell in the kitchen?
  • What do you think is that interesting book on the shelf?
  • What do you think is that strange behavior from your friend?

Alternatives:

  • What do you think that is
  • What do you think that might be
  • What do you think that could be
  • What do you think that means
  • What do you think that represents

What do you think that is

This phrase is correct and commonly used when inquiring about the identity or nature of something.

This phrase is used to ask about the identity, nature, or purpose of an object, situation, or concept.

Examples:

  • What do you think that is making that noise?
  • What do you think that is causing the delay?
  • What do you think that is growing in the garden?
  • What do you think that is happening in the distance?
  • What do you think that is the reason for his absence?

Alternatives:

  • What do you think is that
  • What do you think might be that
  • What do you think could be that
  • What do you think means that
  • What do you think represents that
Both phrases are correct, but they have different meanings and usage. "What do you think is that" is used when asking for someone's opinion about a specific thing, while "What do you think that is" is used to inquire about the identity or nature of something.

Last Updated: March 31, 2024

Related Comparisons

Why choose TextRanch?

Lowest prices
Up to 50% lower than other online editing sites.

Fastest Times
Our team of editors is working for you 24/7.

Qualified Editors
Native English experts for UK or US English.

Top Customer Service
We are here to help. Satisfaction guaranteed!