What does “Second thoughts” mean?
"Second thoughts" means having doubts or reconsideration about a decision or action.
What context can I use the in?
Example
After seeing the price, I had second thoughts about buying the car.
Example
I had second thoughts about quitting my job after receiving a promotion.
Example
She had second thoughts about going on the trip after hearing about the weather forecast
Is “Second thoughts” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Second thoughts” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Second thoughts” effectively in context?
You can use "Second Thoughts" to express doubts or reconsideration about a decision or action. It implies that you are having second thoughts and are unsure if your initial choice was the right one. For example, if a friend is considering buying a car but is unsure about the price, you might say, 'After seeing the price, I had second thoughts about buying the car.'
- 1Shopping
After seeing the price, she had second thoughts about purchasing the expensive dress.
- 2Career
He had second thoughts about accepting the job offer after learning about the long working hours.
- 3Travel
They had second thoughts about booking the vacation after reading negative reviews about the hotel.
Similar phrases to “Second thoughts”:
Have reservations
To have doubts or concerns about something
Example
She had reservations about going on the trip due to safety concerns.
To think about something again, especially with the possibility of changing one's decision
Example
He decided to reconsider his plan after receiving new information.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Second thoughts” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Second Thoughts" is unknown.
Is “Second thoughts” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Second Thoughts" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to express their doubts or reconsideration about a decision or action.
What tone does “Second thoughts” have?
"Second Thoughts" conveys a tone of uncertainty and hesitation. It suggests that the person is questioning their initial choice and is unsure about what to do.
Can “Second thoughts” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Second Thoughts" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of doubting or reconsidering a decision. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings, interviews, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'After hearing the news, she had second thoughts about her decision.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'I'm having "second thoughts"...' to imply doubt or hesitation.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- doubts
- hesitation
- uncertainty
- skepticism
- regret
- misgivings
- qualms
Antonyms
- certainty
- confidence
- assurance
- resolve
- conviction
- determination