give someone something to think about
To threaten or provide a challenge to.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“His harsh words gave me something to think about.”
“The manager gave the team something to think about by threatening to cut the budget if sales did not improve.”
“By exposing the flaws in our long-term strategy, the consultant gave the board of directors something to think about regarding the company's future.”
- 01
a little of something goes a long way
Only a small amount of something is usually required to produce a great effect.
- 02
as if someone owns the place
Alternative form of like someone owns the place.
- 03
beat someone round the ears
To beat (a person) with blows about the head.
- 04
bless someone with
To give or bestow, as a gift from God.
- 05
bring someone to their knees
To defeat and make submit to orders.
- 06
call someone every name in the book
To call someone many abusive names.
- 07
call someone everything but a child of God
To call someone many abusive names.
- 08
catch someone napping
To take advantage of someone's inattention.
Last updated August 10, 2026