ENGLISH
REFERENCE

know one's own mind

idiom
Meaning

To clearly understand one's own feelings, intentions, preferences, etc; to know precisely what one wants; to be decisive or determined.


Examples
SIMPLE

She knows her own mind and never changes her plans.

CONTEXTUAL

Even when her friends suggested other options, she knew her own mind and stuck to her original decision.

COMPLEX

It takes a certain strength of character to know your own mind when everyone around you is pressuring you to conform to their expectations.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    abound in one's own sense

    To follow one’s own inclinations and opinions.

  2. 02

    ace up one's sleeve

    A surprise advantage of which others are not aware.

  3. 03

    act one's age

    To behave in a manner appropriate to one's age.

  4. 04

    act one's age, not one's shoe size

    Synonym of act one's age (“to behave in a mature manner; to avoid being childish”).

  5. 05

    afraid of one's own shadow

    Exceptionally timid.

  6. 06

    air one's dirty laundry in public

    To reveal one's sordid secrets to the public.

  7. 07

    air one's dirty linen in public

    Synonym of air one's dirty laundry in public.

  8. 08

    albatross around one's neck

    A characteristic, possession, associate, or previous deed that hinders one's ability to succeed.

Last updated July 12, 2026