come to mention it: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘come to mention it’ mean?
The idiom "come to mention it" is used when someone suddenly remembers or brings up a particular topic or point during a conversation.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "now you mention it" is used to acknowledge that the speaker has just remembered or noticed something that was previously mentioned. It implies that the speaker hadn't thought about it until it was brought up.
When something *leaps to mind*, it means that an idea or thought quickly springs into one's consciousness without much effort. It indicates an instant and obvious association with a particular topic or situation.
The idiom "it's about time" is used to express that something should have happened sooner or that someone is overdue for a certain action or event.
The idiom "in recent memory" refers to a specific period of time that is easily remembered or recalled. It implies that something is significant or noteworthy within that timeframe.
The idiom *I'll tell you* is used to grab someone's attention or emphasize a point before providing information or sharing an opinion. It signals that the speaker has something important to say or wants to share insight.
An idiom used to describe someone or something from a person's past that unexpectedly reappears and has an impact on their present life or situation.
The idiom "for that matter" is used to add a related or similar point to a previous statement or question, suggesting that it is equally applicable or relevant. It is often used to expand on a topic or to indicate that something is true in a more general sense.
The idiom "come to someone's aid" means to help or support someone in need or in a difficult situation.
The idiom "come to mind" means to suddenly think of something or someone, usually when prompted by a particular word, situation or memory.
Unveiling the Significance
The idiom "come to mention it" is a phrase commonly used in English that is characterized by its casual and conversational nature. This idiom is often employed in informal situations, where individuals use it to introduce or bring up a particular topic in a conversation.
One interesting aspect of this idiom is its figurative nature. While the word "come" suggests movement or arrival, it is not used in a literal sense in this idiom. Instead, it signifies the act of remembering or recalling something that may have slipped one's mind temporarily. By saying "come to mention it," individuals imply that the topic being discussed has just come to their attention or remembrance.
now you mention it, the phrase "come to mention it" shares some similarities with the idiomatic expression "now you mention it." Both phrases involve the act of remembering or recalling something in a conversation. While "now you mention it" is used in response to someone else bringing up a topic, "come to mention it" is used by the speaker to initiate the discussion.
The use of the phrase "come to mention it" also indicates a certain level of spontaneity in conversation. It implies that the speaker did not plan to bring up the topic initially but has decided to do so on the spur of the moment. This element of surprise or sudden realization adds a touch of informality and authenticity to the conversation.
come to mind, the phrase "come to mention it" is closely related to the idiomatic expression "come to mind." When something "comes to mind," it means that a thought or idea has occurred or been remembered. In a similar vein, when someone says "come to mention it," they are expressing that a particular topic has just come to their attention or remembrance, and they feel the need to share it with others.
In terms of its etymology, the idiom "come to mention it" does not have a clear origin or specific linguistic history. It is a phrase that has likely evolved over time through everyday usage.
come to light, another related idiom, refers to the process of discovering or revealing something that was previously unknown or hidden. While the idiom "come to mention it" does not have the same connotation as "come to light," both idioms involve the act of bringing something forward or expressing it in a conversation.
When examining the meaning of this idiom, it is crucial to consider the broader context in which it is used. While it primarily serves as a conversational tool, "come to mention it" also carries a sense of connection and association. By bringing up a particular topic, an individual can contribute to the continuity and coherence of the ongoing dialogue.
Come to, the final related idiom, is a shorthand way of saying "come to mind" or "come to mention it." It can be used as a standalone phrase to convey the act of remembering or recalling something in a conversation. When someone says "come to," they are indicating that a particular topic has just come to their attention or remembrance, and they feel the need to share it with others.
The idiom "come to mention it" is a common phrase used in informal conversations to introduce or recall a relevant topic. Its figurative nature, spontaneous usage, and lack of clear etymology reinforce its casual and conversational character. While the origins of this idiom may be elusive, its usage allows individuals to establish connections and maintain the flow of a discussion. Through the use of "come to mention it," speakers can show their engagement and contribute to the meaningful exchange of ideas.
Example usage
1. When asked about his favorite food, John hesitated for a moment before coming to mention it was pizza.
2. The professor was discussing different types of literature, and then he came to mention it, the works of Shakespeare.
3. During the interview, the candidate was talking about her previous experience, and she suddenly came to mention it, her time spent studying abroad.
More "Context" idioms
