Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

on-second-thought

idiom

ˌɒn ˈsɛkənd θɔt

Definition

Upon reconsideration or reflection, often involving a change of mind about a decision or opinion.

Examples

“I’m not sure if I want to go to the party tonight; on second thought, I think I’ll stay in and read a book.”
“He originally agreed to the plan, but on second thought, he realized it wasn’t a good idea.”
“I wanted to order pizza, but on second thought, I remembered I have leftovers in the fridge.”

Meaning

The phrase is used when someone re-evaluates a previous decision, indicating that they have thought about it again and may want to alter their initial stance.