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On second thought Meaning in English

expression

ˈɑn/, /ˈɔn/ /ˈsɛkənd/ /ˈθɔt
ON SEK-und THAWT
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 realidadPortuguese (BR): pensando melhor - na verdadePortuguese (PT): pensando melhor - aliásChinese (Simplified): 再想一想 - 其实Chinese (Traditional): 再想一想 - 其實Hindi: फिर से सोचने पर - दरअसलArabic: بعد إعادة التفكير - في الواقعBengali: আসলে ভাবলে - আবার ভেবেRussian: подумав ещё раз - если подуматьJapanese: やっぱり - 考え直してVietnamese: nghĩ lại thìKorean: 생각해보니 - 다시 생각해보니Turkish: tekrar düşününce - düşününceUrdu: دوبارہ سوچنے پر - دوبارہ غور کرنے پرIndonesian: 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