SECONDGUESS Meaning and
Definition
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The term "second-guess" is a verb which refers to the act of doubting or questioning a decision or choice that has already been made, typically based on hindsight, intuition, or the belief that there may have been a better alternative. It involves reflecting on a past action or decision and speculating whether a different approach or outcome could have been achieved if another course of action had been taken. Second-guessing often occurs when one evaluates the consequences or results of a decision and contemplates whether a different decision may have been more effective or advantageous.
The term is derived from the concept of having initial thoughts or guesses followed by a secondary or subsequent doubt or evaluation. It implies a level of uncertainty or lack of confidence in the original decision. Second-guessing can be influenced by various factors, such as regret, new information, or the opinions of others. It can be a natural and reflective process, allowing individuals to learn and grow from their past choices. On the other hand, excessive second-guessing can hinder progress, create frustration, and lead to indecisiveness.
In summary, "second-guess" is a verb that describes the act of doubting or questioning a past decision or choice, often triggered by hindsight or the belief that a different outcome could have been achieved.
Common Misspellings for SECONDGUESS
Etymology of SECONDGUESS
The word "second guess" is derived from two separate words: "second" and "guess".
The word "second" originates from the Old French word "secund", which means "following, next, or second in order". This Old French term ultimately derives from the Latin word "secundus", with a similar meaning.
The word "guess" comes from the Old French word "guesser", which means "to estimate or make an opinion". The Old French term is believed to be derived from the Medieval Latin word "gutta", meaning "a drop". It is said that "guess" originally referred to the act of making judgments based on dropping pebbles in water and observing the patterns they made.
The combination of "second" and "guess" formed the phrase "second guess", which refers to the act of reconsidering, questioning, or doubting a decision or opinion that has already been made.
Idioms with the word SECONDGUESS
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secondguess sb/sth
The idiom "second-guess someone/something" means to doubt or question someone's decisions, actions, or judgments, typically with the belief that one could have made a better decision or choice. It implies that one believes they have a superior understanding or would have done something differently.
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secondguess sm
The idiom "second guess someone" means to criticize or question someone's decision, action, or judgment after it has been made, usually when one thinks they could have done better in the same situation. It implies doubting or having a different opinion from the initial decision-maker.
Similar spelling words for SECONDGUESS
- second estate,
- second person,
- second hand,
- second cousin,
- second best,
- seasoned,
- secondary,
- second fiddle,
- second-guess,
- second crusade,
- second-best,
- second class,
- second base,
- secondhand,
- second sight,
- second-string,
- second-class,
- second sacker,
- secondly,
- second wind,
- seconder,
- second-rate.
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