Italian Phrase
Penso di studiare una nuova materia.
Meaning
This phrase expresses a tentative plan or a personal intention that the speaker is currently contemplating. It uses the verb 'pensare' (to think) combined with 'di' and an infinitive verb to indicate a possible future action. It suggests the speaker is in the process of deciding rather than having a fixed commitment.
When to use
Use this phrase when discussing your academic goals, personal hobbies, or self-improvement plans with friends, family, or colleagues. It is ideal for casual conversations where you want to share what is on your mind regarding your education.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Pensodistudiareunanuovamateria
Pensare di
The verb 'pensare' followed by 'di' and an infinitive is the standard way to express an intention or a thought about doing something yourself.
Adjective Placement
In 'nuova materia', the adjective 'nuova' comes before the noun to emphasize the novelty of the subject.
🗨In Conversation
Quali sono i tuoi piani per l'università?
What are your plans for university?
Non sono sicuro, ma penso di studiare una nuova materia come l'archeologia.
I'm not sure, but I am thinking about studying a new subject like archaeology.
✕Common Mistakes
Penso che studio una nuova materia.
When the subject of 'pensare' and the second verb is the same, Italian uses 'di' + infinitive instead of 'che' + indicative.
Penso a studiare una nuova materia.
While 'pensare a' means to think about someone or something, 'pensare di' is the correct construction for expressing an intention to do an action.
↔Alternatives
Sto pensando di studiare una nuova materia.
I'm thinking about studying a new subject (ongoing process).
Ho intenzione di studiare una nuova materia.
I intend to study a new subject.
Mi piacerebbe studiare una nuova materia.
I would like to study a new subject.
Cultural Tip
In Italy, 'materia' refers specifically to a school subject or a field of study. Italians value lifelong learning, and it is very common for adults to take evening classes or 'corsi di aggiornamento' to expand their knowledge in different 'materie'. Using 'penso di' makes the statement sound more conversational and less like a formal declaration.