second-guess

[sek-uhnd-ges]

verb (used with object)

1. to use hindsight in criticizing or correcting.

2. to predict (something) or outguess (someone).

   We must try to second-guess what he'll do next.

second-guess

verb

1. to criticize or evaluate with hindsight

2. to attempt to anticipate or predict (a person or thing)

Other Word Forms

• second-guesser noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of second-guess¹

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

But in the wake of that criticism came a return volley of second-guessing about Doncic’s conditioning, durability and laggard defense.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Why do you rake yourself over the coals for every last cent you have spent, and second-guess every move?

Read more on MarketWatch

Nacua has said that he does not second-guess playing with a physical style.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

And in the aftermath, the second-guessing of the decision was as immediate as it was decisive.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The idea is not to look ahead to what might be or back at how far they have come, but exist in the present, without second-guessing yourself or the consequences of making a mistake.

Read more on BBC