second thought

or second-thought

noun

1. Often second thoughts. reservation about a previous action, position, decision, judgment, or the like:

   He had second thoughts about his decision.

second thought

noun

1. usually plural a revised opinion or idea on a matter already considered

Word History and Origins

Origin of second thought¹

First recorded in 1625–35

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. on second thought, after reconsideration:

   On second thought, I don't think I'll go.

Example Sentences

Trump was originally expected to pick either Wall Street mogul Howard Lutnick or hedge fund manager Scott Bessent, but is now reportedly having second thoughts.

From Salon

They also have delayed votes on bond financing for the proposed ballpark, and newly elected officials have raised second thoughts on the project.

From Los Angeles Times

It seems reasonable to conclude, at the very least, that both sides were having second thoughts.

From BBC

"I didn’t give it a second thought. But definitely, looking back at it - you think you know who somebody is, and you don’t," he said.

From BBC

An alumnus from the class of 1996 messaged me to say that she had been thinking about getting a “47” tattoo but has had second thoughts since Trump’s election.

From Los Angeles Times