C1idiomdecisionsIELTS-friendly
think better of it
USUK
to change your mind about doing something after thinking about it more
Usually past: 'thought better of it', often after 'but' or 'then'. Pattern: 'think better of doing something'. The preposition is 'of', not 'about'.
In context
I almost sent the angry email, but I thought better of it and waited until morning.
He was going to quit on the spot, then thought better of it.
Common mistake
Incorrect: I wanted to quit, but I thought better about it.
Correct: I wanted to quit, but I thought better of it.
More idioms about decisions
- a Catch-22a situation you can't escape because each solution depends on the other
- a change of hearta change in your opinion or plan, usually towards a kinder or different view
- a double-edged swordsomething that has both good and bad effects
- a fait accomplisomething already decided or done that others must now accept
- a foregone conclusiona result that is certain before it happens