On second thought Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈɑn/, /ˈɔn/ /ˈsɛkənd/ /ˈθɔt

ON SEK-und THAWT

UK

ˈɒn/ /ˈsɛkɪnd/ /θˈɔːt

on SEK-ind THAWT

Definition

Used when you change your mind after reconsidering something, often right after making a decision or statement.

Usage & Nuances

Informal and common in conversation. Used to quickly correct oneself or signal a changed decision. Usually at the beginning of a sentence: 'On second thought, I'll stay home.' Sometimes written as 'on second thoughts' in UK English.

• Spanish: pensándolo bien - en realidad
• Portuguese (BR): pensando melhor - na verdade
• Portuguese (PT): pensando melhor - aliás
• Chinese (Simplified): 再想一想 - 其实
• Chinese (Traditional): 再想一想 - 其實
• Hindi: फिर से सोचने पर - दरअसल
• Arabic: بعد إعادة التفكير - في الواقع
• Bengali: আসলে ভাবলে - আবার ভেবে
• Russian: подумав ещё раз - если подумать
• Japanese: やっぱり - 考え直して
• Vietnamese: nghĩ lại thì
• Korean: 생각해보니 - 다시 생각해보니
• Turkish: tekrar düşününce - düşününce
• Urdu: دوبارہ سوچنے پر - دوبارہ غور کرنے پر
• Indonesian: setelah dipikir-pikir - setelah dipertimbangkan

Example Sentences

On second thought, I don't want any dessert.

basic

Let's leave at six. On second thought, let's go at seven.

basic

I was going to buy it, but on second thought I changed my mind.

basic

On second thought, maybe we should call ahead and make a reservation.

natural

Thanks, but on second thought, I think I'll pass on the offer.

natural

Let’s get coffee—oh, on second thought, let’s try that new tea place instead.

natural