food for thought

Idioms  

1. An idea or issue to ponder, as in That interesting suggestion of yours has given us food for thought. This metaphoric phrase, transferring the idea of digestion from the stomach to mulling something over in the mind, dates from the late 1800s, although the idea was also expressed somewhat differently at least three centuries earlier.

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Example Sentences

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food for thought

First-estimate eurozone gross domestic product data for the second quarter on Thursday and flash estimate inflation data for July on Friday will give investors food for thought.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 24, 2026

Iran’s failures as well as its successes give Beijing food for thought.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 27, 2026

He also has other options in that coveted position which he will get the opportunity to explore in these friendlies - the players' last chances to give Tuchel food for thought.

From BBC ● Mar. 20, 2026

What is “Love is Blind” if not food for thought about your own desires and must-haves in a relationship?

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 30, 2025

Penelope had no interest in revenge, but as a person in the midst of a daring escape herself, The Count of Monte Cristo offered food for thought.

From "The Long-Lost Home" by Maryrose Wood