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Synonyms

come to mind

Idioms  
  1. Be recollected, occur to one, as in A new idea just came to mind. This phrase replaced the earlier come in mind, which dates from the late 1300s. Also see bring to mind; call to mind; enter one's mind.


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The prospect of a hard fall afterward may not even come to mind because, hey, at least you tried.

From Slate • Apr. 16, 2026

There were occasions when Wales attacked freely under Rob Page – wins over Croatia and Finland come to mind – but they tended to err on the side of caution under Bellamy's predecessor.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

“I can’t sum him up in one word, so here’s three that come to mind: prolific, eclectic and commanding,” Spielberg says.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 10, 2026

This is all to say that when one thinks of working moms, Olympic athletes — which require years of intense physical and mental training — aren’t exactly the first to come to mind.

From Salon • Feb. 18, 2026

She shows or tells someone a word like butter or beach, and they are supposed to write or say all the words that come to mind when they see that word.

From "Silent To The Bone" by E.L. Konigsburg

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