# count to ten

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/count-to-ten
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

An expression used to describe or recommend a process for pausing to regain one's composure when one is on the verge of losing one's temper.

## Examples

- When you feel angry, just count to ten.
- I was about to yell at my coworker, but I decided to count to ten first.
- Rather than reacting impulsively to the provocation, she chose to count to ten and regain her composure before responding.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.