Synonyms

presence of mind

American

noun

a calm state of mind that allows one to think clearly or act effectively in an emergency.

presence of mind British

noun

the ability to remain calm and act constructively during times of crisis

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

presence of mind Idioms

The ability to act sensibly, promptly, and appropriately, especially in a difficult situation or emergency. For example, Distraught about losing her wallet and passport, she had the presence of mind to notify the authorities at once. This idiom in effect says that one's mind is present and functioning. [Second half of 1600s]

Etymology

Origin of presence of mind

First recorded in 1655–65

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.

James Justin wriggled free inside the Forest area and when his shot was saved by Ortega, he had the presence of mind to square the rebound to Okafor, who slotted home from 10 yards.

From Barron's • Feb. 6, 2026

"For me, being a snake is not about elaborate schemes and lying or anything unscrupulous. It's just having the presence of mind to account for everything," my mom told me.

From Salon • Jan. 29, 2025

Mia had the presence of mind to ask Chris a favor.

From Slate • Jan. 13, 2025

"I had enough presence of mind to know something was very wrong, but I couldn't get my arms or legs to move in the way I wanted."

From BBC • Feb. 25, 2024

It was so dark I could hardly see, but I had a very clear presence of mind.

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023