Cool MateDon't think like that vs Don't worry
When to use each in English, with meaning, register, and examples.
Don't think like that
Top 3,000 (common)
Don't worry
Top 2,000 (common)
Most common: Don't worry
| Don't think like that | Don't worry | |
|---|---|---|
| Pronunciation | 🇬🇧 //dəʊnt θɪŋk laɪk ðæt//🇺🇸 //doʊnt θɪŋk laɪk ðæt// | 🇬🇧 //dəʊnt ˈwʌri//🇺🇸 //doʊnt ˈwɜri// |
| Meaning | Do not have that kind of thought. | A way to tell someone not to be anxious. |
| Example | When I heard about the challenge, I said, 'Don't think like that, you can do it!' | You'll be fine on your exam, so just don't worry. |
| Register | Neutral | Neutral |
| How common | Top 3,000 (common) | Top 2,000 (common) |
| Collocations | don't think like that in tough times, don't think like that about yourself, don't think like that when stressed | don't worry about it, don't worry too much, don't worry, everything will be fine |
| Antonyms | - | worry, fret, stress |
| Common mistakes | Using it as a command in overly formal situations., Confusing it with 'don't think that way' which may sound less polite. | Omitting 'don't' and saying 'worry'., Using it in overly serious contexts., Confusing with 'don't care'. |
| Usage notes | Used informally to advise someone against negative or limiting thoughts. Avoid in formal writing or serious discussions. | Use in reassuring contexts; avoid in serious situations where worry is justified. |
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Frequently asked questions: Don't think like that vs Don't worry
What's the difference between Don't think like that and Don't worry?
Don't think like that: Do not have that kind of thought. Don't worry: A way to tell someone not to be anxious.
Which is more common: Don't think like that and Don't worry?
Don't worry is the most common in everyday English.
Can you show an example of each?
Don't think like that: When I heard about the challenge, I said, 'Don't think like that, you can do it!' Don't worry: You'll be fine on your exam, so just don't worry.
Can I use Don't think like that and Don't worry interchangeably?
Not always. Don't think like that and Don't worry are related and overlap in some contexts, but they differ in register, how common they are, and usage, so swapping one for another can change the meaning or tone. Check the differences above before substituting.