60. Having Second Thoughts – Learn English Idioms with Videos

Anthony jumped at the chance to speak at a major international conference. He knew it was a big opportunity to promote his research and become better known in his field, so he agreed immediately. But as the big day approached, he started having second thoughts. What if he got stage fright and forgot what to say? What if he made a fool of himself in front of so many experts? Luckily, his friends and coworkers talked him out of quitting. He went on to give his presentation and it was a big success!

For more examples of how to use todays idiom, watch the video below.

Transcript

A thought is the noun form of think, so if you have second thoughts, they’re probably going to be different from your first thoughts, right?

Right! Having second thoughts means having doubts about a decision that you have made, or considering changing a decision that you have made.

Let’s clear this up with a few example sentences:

• Mike proposed, and I said yes, but I’m having second thoughts. I love him, but I’m not sure if I’m ready to get married!
• I told Belinda I would quit my job and move to New York with her, but I’m having second thoughts. I’d be so far away from my friends and family! I don’t know what to do!
• I’m having second thoughts about my plan to go to university next year. Obviously, it would help my career, but I’m not sure if I’ll have enough money!

So, there we are: having second thoughts. Have you ever had second thoughts about something? Let us know in the comments section below.

Practice

Ok, now it’s your turn! We’re excited to see what you can do with this everyday idiom.

• Have you ever questioned an important decision that you had made? Why? What happened?
• Did a friend ever come to you for advice because they were unsure that they had made the right choice?
• Did you ever commit to attending an event, but then consider changing your mind? What did you do?

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