Think by oneself v.s. think for oneself

[Liliexeter]

"........that these children may find it hard to think for themselves when they are older. " Can I use think by themselves to instead of "think for themselves"? Are there any differences between them? Thanks a lot :)

[Alan]

Hi,

'Think for yourself' means make your own decision/make up your own mind. 'Think by yourself' suggests that you are thinking on your own.

Alan
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English as a Second Language
You can read my ESL story Present Simple

[Liliexeter]

Thanks Alan :)

[Atomos]

I see 'think for yourself' as 'giving yourself high priority'. Is it correct, Alan?

Ex: You are always working your ass off for the sake of other people. Why don't you think for yourself a little bit?
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[Beeesneees]

Hi Atomos,

That would be 'think about yourself'.

As Alan has said, 'think for yourself' means 'make up your own mind/come to your own decision'.
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Cheers m' dears!