- Something that provides mental stimulus for serious consideration; an idea or piece of information worth thinking about carefully.
Explanation
Origin
- A metaphor comparing ideas or information to food that nourishes the mind.
- The concept is ancient, but the specific phrase gained traction in the 19th century.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Something to chew on.
- Something to noodle on. (Means to think about casually)
- Makes you think, huh?
- Heavy stuff. (If the topic is serious)
Vulgar/Emphatic (Less common for the concept itself, more for reacting to the *implications*):
- That's some deep shit to consider.
- Really fucks with your head, doesn't it? (When the idea is mind-bending or disturbing)
Milder/Standard:
- An interesting perspective.
- A point worth considering.
- That warrants further reflection.
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in most situations, from informal discussions to formal presentations or reports.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Generally straightforward, but learners should understand it's metaphorical – no actual food is involved. It refers purely to intellectual stimulation.
Examples
- The speaker's points about climate change gave us all some food for thought.
- Thanks for the suggestion – that's definitely food for thought.
- Here's some food for thought: what if we approached the problem from the opposite direction?
Dialogue
Manager: We could shift our marketing budget entirely to digital platforms. It might reach a younger audience more effectively.
Employee: Hmm, abandoning traditional media completely... That's certainly food for thought. We'd need to analyze the potential risks.
Manager: Exactly. Let's mull it over and discuss the data next week.
Social Media Examples
- Tweet: Just read an article arguing that boredom is essential for creativity. Interesting food for thought in our constantly connected world. #creativity #mindfulness #tech
- Blog Post Conclusion: These statistics paint a stark picture. Definitely some food for thought for policymakers and citizens alike.
Response Patterns
- Hmm, that's interesting. I'll have to think about that.
- You've given me something to consider.
- Definitely. That raises some important questions.
- Good point.
- Nodding thoughtfully.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After someone says something provided food for thought:
- The original speaker might ask: What are your initial reactions?, Let me know what you conclude., or simply acknowledge the reflection: Glad it was helpful.
After receiving food for thought:
- The recipient might later revisit the topic: I've been thinking about what you said..., or ask clarifying questions.
Conversation Starter
- No.
- Usually used in response to an idea or as a way to present a point for consideration within an ongoing discussion.
Intonation
- Typically stated with emphasis on food and thought.
- Often delivered with a slightly reflective or serious tone. FOOD for THOUGHT.
Generation Differences
- Widely understood and used across generations.
Regional Variations
- Common in all major English-speaking regions.