on second thoughts

USAGE SUMMARY

"on second thoughts" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase typically means to reconsider or change one's position or opinion after considering it further. Example: On second thoughts, I decided to take the job after all.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Married life can sometimes bring on some surprising "on second thoughts," but that's what makes it fun.

Huffington Post

On second thoughts, there's no need to answer that one.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

So on second thoughts, wannabe chancellors might not want to trumpet this one too loudly.

The Guardian - Opinion

Then there was the question of changing one's mind: "Is it ethical for me to make cuts, on second thoughts, in pieces?!

The New Yorker

On second thoughts, don't.

The Economist

On second thoughts, read on.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

On second thoughts, we won't".

The Guardian

On second thoughts – mibbes naw.

The Guardian - Opinion

On second thoughts, pretend I didn't ask.

The Guardian - Sport

On second thoughts they will probably not.

The Guardian - Sport

Probably just as well on second thoughts.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on second thoughts", ensure the initial statement and the revised statement are clearly juxtaposed for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "on second thoughts" without first establishing the original thought or intention. It needs a point of reference to be effective. For example, instead of just saying "On second thoughts, I won't go", provide the initial plan: "I was planning to go, but on second thoughts, I won't."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on second thoughts" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying the verb in the sentence by indicating a change of mind or a reconsideration of a previous decision. Ludwig shows numerous examples where it introduces a revised action or statement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on second thoughts" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to indicate a change of mind or reconsideration. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. It functions to signal a shift in perspective, and its register is generally neutral, appearing frequently in news and media, according to Ludwig. When writing, using this phrase effectively involves clearly contrasting the initial and revised thoughts. Some alternatives include "upon reflection" or "I've changed my mind".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

i'm having second thoughts

Expresses doubt or uncertainty about a decision already made.

i've changed my mind

A direct statement of changing one's opinion.

i take it back

Indicates a retraction of a previous statement.

upon reflection

Emphasizes a more thoughtful reconsideration.

on further consideration

Stresses that more thought was given to the matter.

after reconsideration

Highlights the act of reconsidering something.

having reconsidered

Similar to "after reconsideration" but with a slightly different grammatical structure.

in retrospect

Focuses on looking back at a decision or thought.

let me rephrase that

Suggests a desire to clarify or modify a previous statement.

if i had to do it again

Implies a willingness to change a past decision.

FAQs

How can I use "on second thoughts" in a sentence?

"On second thoughts" is used to introduce a change of mind. For example, "I thought I would order pizza, but "on second thoughts", I'll make pasta instead."

What is a more formal alternative to "on second thoughts"?

For a more formal tone, you could use "after further consideration" or "upon reflection" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "on second thoughts"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct and commonly used to start a sentence to indicate a change of mind or a new consideration.

What's the difference between "on second thoughts" and "at first glance"?

"On second thoughts" indicates a change of opinion after some consideration, while "at first glance" (/s/at+first+glance) describes an initial impression that may not be accurate upon closer inspection.