Think Versus Think of/about

Hello, first happy to know this site.

What's the difference between 'think' and 'think of'?

I used to think 'THINK + that S+V' and 'THINK OF + N'. But there are exceptions like these.

1. The referee has to think the way the players do.
2. I'm trying to think positive thoughts.

I got confused. And I really need your help.

[Neillythere]

Hi Peter

As a Brit and mentor, but not a teacher, I would interpret your sentences as follows:

1. The referee has to think (How?) [in] the [same] way [that] the players do/think.
2. I'm trying to think (what?) positive thoughts.

They both relate, really, to "directing one's mind towards someone or something", reflecting definition 2a, below, in the OED definition of "think":

AskOxford: think

1 have a particular opinion, belief, or idea about someone or something.
2 a) direct one’s mind towards someone or something;
b) use one’s mind actively to form connected ideas.
3 (think of/about) take into account or consideration.
4 (think of/about) consider the possibility or advantages of.
5 (think of) have a particular opinion of.
6 call something to mind; remember.

Does this help your understanding?

Best regards
NT

[Snowcake]

This question was asked some time ago. Perhaps you may try to search the forums.

A short explanation can be found here:

BBC World Service | Learning English | Ask about English

BTW, this is a double post.