on second thought

Idioms  

1. Resulting from a revised opinion or change of mind, as in I thought I'd go to the movies, but on second thought I'd rather stay home. Similarly, have second thoughts means “change one's mind,” as in I've had second thoughts about moving to Florida. This idiom alludes to ideas that come later. [Mid-1600s]

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Example Sentences

“But on second thought, that was a little too corny.”

From The Wall Street Journal • May 8, 2026

But on second thought, no one is better at playing The Entitled Mean Girl than Bondi herself.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 13, 2026

What began as a flippantly offered pipe dream, on second thought sounded too good to resist.

From New York Times • Mar. 19, 2024

The Commanders’ own version of this may be the “Redskins Rule,” which, on second thought, probably warrants a new name after the former moniker was retired.

From Washington Times • Aug. 25, 2022

“Actually, on second thought, I shouldn’t leave you alone.”

From "The Tenth Mistake of Hank Hooperman" by Gennifer Choldenko