be in two minds about sth

Are you using the idiom be in two minds about sth but not sure about its meaning? Using idioms, which are important elements of spoken and written language, in the right place strengthens your language skills. Examine the meaning of the be in two minds about sth idiom and the situations in which it is used.

Meaning of "be in two minds about sth"

Meaning

To be in two minds about something means to be unable to make up one's mind or undecided about something, usually due to conflicting feelings or thoughts. It also can indicate being hesitant or uncertain to make a decision because of various reasons.

Etymology

The phrase "to be in two minds", which dates back to the 1700s, is of unknown origin. It is believed to have originated in British English, although it is now commonly used in many other English speaking countries around the world. The phrase is often used in combination with a preposition, such as "about something" to indicate the object of one's indecision or uncertainty.

Usage

The phrase "to be in two minds about something" can be used to indicate hesitation or uncertainty about making a decision. This phrase can often be used to emphasize the difficulty of making a decision, as the person is struggling to decide between two or more options. It is also commonly used to express that the person is feeling conflicted about an issue, as both sides have their own merits and benefits.

Example Sentences

• I am in two minds about what career path I should take next.
• John was in two minds about whether to accept the job offer or not.
• She was in two minds about whether to apply for the university course or not.
• They are in two minds about whether to buy a new car or not.

The Surprising Origins of Everyday English Idioms

Many English idioms have surprisingly dark origins, often rooted in violence, death, and superstition. For instance, the phrase "raining cats and dogs" is said to have originated in the 17th century, when heavy rain would often cause dead animals to wash up on the streets. Meanwhile, the idiom "rule of thumb" is believed to have originated from a law that allowed men to beat their wives with a stick no thicker than their thumb.