English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Double take
Meaning
The idiom "double take" refers to the act of taking a second look or giving a second thought to something that has initially caught one's attention. It can also mean being momentarily stunned or puzzled, as if one has taken two steps back from a surprise or shock.
Usage
- I did a double take when I saw my ex at the grocery store.
- After hearing the news, I had to do a double take to make sure I understood correctly.
- She took a double take when she heard my joke and started laughing uncontrollably.
- The sudden change in direction on the highway made me do a double take and nearly cause an accident.
- The end of the movie left me with such a cliffhanger that I had to do a double take when the credits started rolling.
Roots and History
The origin of the idiom "double take" is not entirely clear, but it is thought to have originated in the early 20th century. The earliest known use of the idiom can be traced back to the 1930s in American English, where it was used to describe the act of taking a second look at something. Over time, the idiom's usage has expanded to include being momentarily stunned or puzzled by something.
Synonyms in English
- Re-evaluate
- Double down
- Take stock
- Re-examine
- Second glance
Synonyms in other languages
- In French: "revoir" (to see again)
- In Spanish: "revisar" (to re-examine)
- In Italian: "ridisegno" (to redraw or revise)
- In German: "Überprüfen" (to examine more closely)
- In Arabic: "اقتباس" (to estimate or make a guess)