Reckon
UK /["/ˈrekən/","/ˈrekənz/","/ˈrekənd/","/ˈrekənɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈrekən/","/ˈrekənz/","/ˈrekənd/","/ˈrekənɪŋ/"]/
Definition
to think something or have an opinion about something
In simple words: To think or believe something.
Examples
- I reckon it will rain tomorrow based on the weather forecast.
- She reckoned that the project would be finished by next week.
- Many people reckon him to be the best player on the team.
- Do you reckon we should leave earlier to avoid traffic?
- He reckons up the total cost before making a decision.
Usage notes
Commonly used in informal contexts, particularly in spoken English. It may sound too casual for formal writing. Avoid using in professional or academic settings.
Grammar pattern
reckon + (that) + clause
Memory hint
Sounds like 'wreck on' — imagine thinking about a car wreck.
Collocations
- reckon that
- I reckon
- reckon with
- reckon it will
- reckon on
Synonyms
- believe
- think
- suppose
- consider
- assume
Antonyms
- doubt
- question
- disbelieve
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'recommend' — 'reckon' is about opinion, not suggesting something.
- Used too formally — it's better for conversations than in writing.
- Omitted the subject — must include who is doing the reckoning.