presence of mind

American  

noun

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

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presence of mind British  

noun

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

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presence of mind Idioms  

1. 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]

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Etymology

Origin of presence of mind

First recorded in 1655–65

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

presence of mind

President Droupadi Murmu said the nation was proud of Machchhar, saluting his "heroic courage and incredible presence of mind" and saying his actions helped prevent a major tragedy.

From Barron's ● Oct. 1, 2026

The moment Flowers hit the ground, Jackson had the presence of mind to call a timeout.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 28, 2026

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.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 5, 2025

"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

Somehow, I had the presence of mind to reach up and yank the ejection handle above my seat.

From "Ready Player One: A Novel" by Ernest Cline