will think twice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "think twice" is a commonly used phrase in written English.
You can use it as a way of suggesting that someone should think carefully before they make a decision, or that they should consider something more than once. For example, "Before making a decision, it's always a good idea to think twice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Maybe even the Mets will think twice.

The New York Times - Sports

I think they will think twice".

The New York Times

But someone from a Muslim background will think twice".

The Guardian

"Maybe they will think twice before doing these things.

The Guardian

Certainly, corporations will think twice about keeping on a tainted auditor.

The Economist

Poachers will think twice about smuggling ivory through Kenya, after a landmark ruling in Nairobi yesterday.

Independent

"From now on," says a Tehran housewife, "I will think twice before using the washing machine".

The Economist

"They will think twice before trying it on again at The Wanderers next week.

Independent

"Next time, excuse me, some brainless she-goat will think twice," he told FlashNord news agency.

The Guardian

Any small company looking at filing for special status will think twice.

The New York Times

I think people will think twice before they vote this time".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "will think twice" to suggest a deterrent effect, implying that someone's actions might prevent others from behaving similarly in the future. For example: "Implementing stricter penalties means potential offenders "will think twice" before committing the crime."

Common error

Avoid using "will think twice" to describe a past action. Instead of saying "He will think twice after the accident", use "He thought twice after the accident" or "He would think twice before doing that again."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "will think twice" primarily functions as a verb phrase expressing a future action involving consideration and potential hesitation. Ludwig AI confirms that it implies a careful evaluation before proceeding, often due to potential risks or consequences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "will think twice" is a very common and grammatically sound expression used to indicate that someone is likely to reconsider an action due to potential consequences or prior experiences. Ludwig AI analysis reveals its frequent use in News & Media, suggesting its relevance in reporting on decisions and their implications. Expert analysis confirms its broad acceptance and consistent meaning. When writing, remember to use "will think twice" to suggest deterrence and to avoid using it incorrectly in the past tense. Alternatives such as "will reconsider" or "will hesitate" can provide nuanced variations of the same basic idea.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

will give it a second thought

Suggests a more in-depth reflection on something previously considered.

will reconsider

Focuses on the act of rethinking a decision, implying a potential change of mind.

will hesitate

Emphasizes the pause or delay before acting, suggesting doubt or reluctance.

will look before leaping

An idiomatic expression that advises prudence and careful planning.

will be cautious

Highlights the careful and prudent approach one might take in a situation.

will weigh the options

Implies a careful evaluation of different choices before deciding.

will take into consideration

Highlights the act of considering all relevant factors before making a decision.

will deliberate

Stresses the process of careful and thorough consideration before making a choice.

will sleep on it

Suggests delaying a decision to allow for further reflection and clarity.

will mull over

Emphasizes a slow and thoughtful consideration of something.

FAQs

How can I use "will think twice" in a sentence?

You can use "will think twice" to indicate that someone is likely to reconsider or hesitate before taking a particular action. For example, "After facing severe consequences, they "will think twice" before repeating the same mistake."

What's a similar phrase to "will think twice"?

Alternatives include "will reconsider", "will hesitate", or "will be cautious" depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "will think twice" or "will think again"?

"Will think twice" and "will think again" are quite similar, but "will think twice" often implies a stronger deterrent or a greater degree of hesitation due to potential negative consequences. "Will think again" is a more general expression of reconsideration.

What does it mean when someone says I "will think twice"?

It means that you will likely reconsider or hesitate before doing something, often because you anticipate negative consequences or have learned from a previous experience.