second-guess
Americanverb (used with object)
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to use hindsight in criticizing or correcting.
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to predict (something) or outguess (someone).
We must try to second-guess what he'll do next.
verb
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to criticize or evaluate with hindsight
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to attempt to anticipate or predict (a person or thing)
Other Word Forms
- second-guesser noun
Etymology
Origin of second-guess
First recorded in 1945–50
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.
The SG argued that courts can’t second-guess the President’s reasons.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 21, 2026
As long as he puts forth some marginally plausible reason, no judge may second-guess his findings or put her back on the Fed.
From Slate • Jan. 12, 2026
Attorney Susan Seager, who is suing the department over its recent protest tactics, said that McDonnell has seemed unwilling to second-guess officers, even when confronted with clear video evidence of them violating court-imposed restrictions.
From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 18, 2025
Whatever cough, ailment or condition comes his way, Morris said he “would have to second-guess every medical and health maneuver” and whether it justified a doctor’s visit.
From MarketWatch • Dec. 11, 2025
She’d sent Rishi Patel away—there was no reason to be all weak and second-guess her choices now.
From "When Dimple Met Rishi" by Sandhya Menon
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
