presence of mind

noun

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

presence of mind

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of presence of mind¹

First recorded in 1655–65

Idioms and Phrases

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]

Example Sentences

Still, he had the presence of mind to do two things: First, he grabbed a bronze arm lying near one of the statues so that he would have proof of the discovery.

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I think you deserve a gold medal if you have the presence of mind to even say, “I would like to be less reactive moving forward.”

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"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.

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“The sergeant had the presence of mind before succumbing to his injuries and going into shock to call for an ambulance for both himself and the suspect,” Casto said.

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Luckily, his father MK Siddiqui, 46, had the presence of mind to connect his son's symptoms with something he had read on social media.

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