To reconsider a decision or opinion, often developing doubts or reservations about something you previously felt confident about.
This phrase emerged in the 17th century, building on the concept that thoughts can be numbered sequentially. The 'second thought' represents the reconsideration that comes after initial judgment, suggesting that reflection often leads to doubt or revision of original decisions.
This phrase captures the beautiful and sometimes torturous human capacity for self-reflection - the ability to think about our thinking. It suggests that wisdom often comes not from our first impulse but from our willingness to revisit and question our initial judgments, even when that creates uncertainty.
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