second thought

noun

Definition of second thoughtnext
as in doubt
a feeling of guilt, doubt, worry, etc., that you have after you have decided to do something or after something has happened After she agreed to lend him the money, she had second thoughts. She was having second thoughts about getting married.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of second thought Subscriptions like Billie cover this for you without a second thought. — Sabina Wizemann, Good Housekeeping, 30 Nov. 2022 In America, the allure of material comfort is accepted without a second thought. — Sarah Zhang, The Atlantic, 20 Nov. 2022 Would Daenerys Targaryen have lit that place up without a second thought? — Lauren Morgan, EW.com, 23 Oct. 2022 As the existing workforce exits the industry and new technological innovation changes how projects are imagined and built, the industry has a unique opportunity to attract a new type of worker who may never have given construction a second thought. — Mark Schwartz, Forbes, 17 May 2021 See All Example Sentences for second thought
Recent Examples of Synonyms for second thought
  1. doubt
  2. hesitation
Noun
  • Early today, the Pisces Moon may stir private doubts or behind-the-scenes frustration as Venus highlights work and wellness .
    — Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 2 Aug. 2026
  • That expectation accurately reflects concerns that various justices have expressed about these laws, and their decision to finally take up the issue suggests those doubts run deep.
    — Letters to the Editor, Washington Post, 2 Aug. 2026
Definition of doubt
Noun
  • Roseman said there was no hesitation about off-field concerns.
    — Zach Berman, New York Times, 30 July 2026
  • Women's hesitation stems from less encouragement, fear of appearing incompetent, and distrust in AI, which can exhibit biases against women.
    — Kim Elsesser, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026
Definition of hesitation

Browse Nearby Words

second sight
second thought
second thoughts
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Cite this Entry

“Second thought.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/second%20thought. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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