presence of mind

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

James Justin wriggled free inside the Forest area and when his shot was saved by Ortega, he had the presence of mind to square the rebound to Okafor, who slotted home from 10 yards.

From Barron's • Feb. 6, 2026

"For me, being a snake is not about elaborate schemes and lying or anything unscrupulous. It's just having the presence of mind to account for everything," my mom told me.

From Salon • Jan. 29, 2025

Mia had the presence of mind to ask Chris a favor.

From Slate • Jan. 13, 2025

“The sergeant had the presence of mind before succumbing to his injuries and going into shock to call for an ambulance for both himself and the suspect,” Casto said.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 28, 2024

Only Groundsel, Thistle and three others had the presence of mind to dart down the opened run when the dog came.

From "Watership Down: A Novel" by Richard Adams