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Definitions

second thoughts

NOUN
change of heart
Synonyms
WEAK
180 about-face apostasy backpedaling change of mind defection flip-flop reversal turnaround volte-face
NOUN
cold feet
Synonyms
WEAK
anxiety apprehension backing out chickenheart doubt faint heart fear fear of carrying out an activity reservations timidity weak knees white feather yellow streak
NOUN
compunction
Synonyms
STRONG
attrition conscience contrition misgiving penitence pity punctiliousness qualm reluctance remorse repentance rue ruth shame sympathy
WEAK
penitency stab of conscience
Antonyms
STRONG
disdain happiness indifference mercilessness
WEAK
defiance meanness no remorse
NOUN
flip-flop
Synonyms
STRONGEST
U-turn about-face reversal turnabout volte-face
STRONG
change changeover switch turnaround
WEAK
change of course change of heart switchover

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.

When the 30-year mortgage is paid off, you’ll be 89, but you’re probably not banking on holding on to the property for that long if you’re already having second thoughts about the purchase.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 17, 2026

“Well, if she’s not into me, she’s having second thoughts about marrying him. Do I tell him?”

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 26, 2026

He says while he would have jumped at the chance to go to Brit School as a teenager, now he would have second thoughts.

From BBC • Feb. 21, 2026

RAMSEY, N.J.—’Tis the season after the season—when gifts are unwrapped, budgets are blown and second thoughts sink in.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 31, 2025

There was no time for second thoughts or long goodbyes.

From "Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children" by Ransom Riggs