state of mind

[ steyt uhv mahynd ]

idiom

1. a person’s mental or emotional condition, especially at a given point in time:

   Subtle touches like scratched-out mistakes and underlined words can give us insight into the author’s state of mind while she was writing.

   The state of mind or mental stability of the defendant also needs to be taken into consideration.

2. a general outlook on life, the world, the future, etc.:

   Youth is not a time of life; it is a state of mind.

   Marriage is a state of mind and a way of life.

Word History and Origins

Origin of state of mind¹

First recorded in 1630–40

Example Sentences

“We look forward to a vigorous examination of Senator Alvarado-Gil’s behavior and state of mind and to get this matter to trial as expeditiously as possible.”

From Los Angeles Times

As in “paranoid,” a state of mind that Tyler, the Creator effectively evokes on this track from his richly imaginative new album, “Chromakopia.”

From New York Times

Now, the narrative feels more like a permanent state of mind as well as a culture war weapon.

From Los Angeles Times

But others are less optimistic about the current New York state of mind.

From Los Angeles Times

What is your state of mind now with your career and what does success look like?

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• disposition
• mindset
• mood
• temperament