Clever or witty remarks that someone thinks of only after the conversation has ended; the ability to think of the perfect comeback too late.
Old English compound of 'after' and 'wit' (from Old English 'wit,' mind or understanding). Long-standing term in English that expresses a universal human frustration.
The French have a better term—'esprit d'escalier' (staircase wit)—because you think of the perfect comeback as you're walking down the stairs to leave! This is why most funny people on social media edit their posts!
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