The Village Idiom

come to think of it

The idiom "come to think of it" means to suddenly remember or realize something, often when it's related to the topic currently being discussed.

Filed under C

In a sentence

  • Come to think of it, I believe I left my keys at the office.
  • She asked if I had seen her umbrella, and come to think of it, I did see it in the hallway earlier.
  • He mentioned going to the movies later tonight, and come to think of it, I haven't been to the cinema in months.

Where it comes from and how it is used

The idiom "come to mention it" is similar to "come to think of it" in that it also denotes a sudden realization or a change in perspective. However, "come to mention it" specifically emphasizes the act of mentioning something that was just thought of or remembered. It is often used when a person brings up a point or topic in a conversation that they had not previously considered or mentioned. This phrase adds a conversational element to the discussion, allowing for a more natural and spontaneous flow of ideas.

The phrase "spring to mind" is another idiom that aligns with the concept of a sudden realization or recall of a thought. When something "springs to mind," it signifies that a thought or idea has immediately and effortlessly come into one's consciousness. This phrase is often used when a person spontaneously remembers something or when a relevant thought occurs to them in response to a particular stimulus.

On the other hand, the idiom "come to one's senses" takes a slightly different approach. It signifies a moment of clarity or realization after a period of confusion or inattentiveness. When someone "comes to their senses," it means that they have gained a clear understanding or have become aware of the reality of a situation. This phrase implies a moment of insight or awakening and often suggests that someone has corrected a previous misunderstanding or erroneous belief.

The last related idiom, "come up with," denotes the act of producing or generating something, typically an idea, a solution, or a plan. When someone "comes up with" something, it means that they have developed or conceived of it. This phrase emphasizes the element of creativity and innovation, suggesting that the person has actively thought of and proposed a new concept or solution.

When using the idiom "come to think of it" in conversation or writing, it is essential to consider the various related idioms that can enhance the overall meaning and impact. By incorporating phrases like "come to mention it," "come to mind," "spring to mind," "come to one's senses," and "come up with," individuals can further emphasize the suddenness or spontaneity of a thought or realization. These related idioms add depth and complexity to language, enabling more effective communication and a richer understanding of the subject matter at hand.

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