think very hard

Thompson racked his brains for an explanation.  Google

Over the next few days he racked his brains trying to figure out what the number was. Google

Bill Baker got sadder and sadder (and fatter and fatter, he had to eat everything
he baked) and racked his brains trying to think of healthy and tasty recipes. Google

ask a question, esp. one not likely to be answered

Communists
raise a question of non-confidence in the government.  Google

Data That Raise a Question: What do you already know that causes you to ask the
question?  Google

 Can I can I just raise a question er to r to clarify the point before I answer your question that I are am I are we to assume that in response to Mr , erm it's on the record that there's a er a request to add, clear expression of local preference I by local planning authorities?  BNCI

widely held and accepted opinion

So far we have considered only two possibilities--that the received opinion may
be false and some other opinion consequently true. google

The habit of mere adhesion to received opinion in any matter is most mischievous,
for it strikes at the roof of independence of thought.Google

Meanwhile Jake's noncing on about received opinion for no particular
reason, and Matt offers some Harvest Moon tips. Google

understand clearly what sb´s character is

 If you spend some time observing him, you'll be able to master all its particulars
and read him like a book -- not the Jane Austen novel you've been enjoying.  Google

He is usually quite open
and honest about things, so you should be able to read him like a book.  Google

 I can read him like a book and he can do the same
with me.  Google

know what sb thinks, wants or plans

 Martain Manhunter already read his mind before Wally even told everyone. Google

He read his mind and gave him the chance to tell it himself just like Batman did.  Gogle

You read his mind and reveal the number he was thinking. Google

you know you have already heard about sth but you cannot remember it quite well

Does this ring a bell? Google

It might ring a bell in somebody's mind.';  BNCI

To readers of this column does the name Rosenstein ring a bell?  BNCI