- An idea, suggestion, or piece of information that is worth thinking about seriously or pondering. It provides mental nourishment.
Explanation
Origin
- This is a metaphor comparing ideas to food. Just as food nourishes the body, certain ideas or information can nourish the mind, stimulating thought and consideration.
- The phrase has been used in English since at least the 19th century.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Something to chew on. (Similar metaphor)
- Let that sink in. (Often used after a surprising or impactful statement)
- Makes you think, huh?
More Formal:
- A point worthy of consideration.
- This warrants further reflection.
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in most contexts, from casual chats to formal presentations, when introducing an idea for consideration.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Generally well understood. The metaphorical link between ideas and 'food' for the mind is quite intuitive.
Examples
- The presentation on climate change certainly gave us all food for thought.
- Here's some food for thought: what if we approached the problem from the opposite direction?
- His comments about the future of the industry were definite food for thought.
Dialogue
Speaker: ...and studies show that a four-day work week can actually increase productivity. Just some food for thought.
Audience Member 1: Hmm, that's fascinating. I wonder how that would apply to our company culture.
Audience Member 2: Definitely food for thought. We should look into those studies.
Social Media Examples
- Tweet: If social media is designed to connect us, why do so many people report feeling more isolated? Food for thought. #mentalhealth #technology
- Blog Post Ending: ...Consider these statistics next time you plan your marketing budget. Definitely food for thought.
- Instagram Caption (under a provocative image/quote): Food for thought on this Monday morning. What does this mean to you? 👇
Response Patterns
- That's interesting.
- Hmm, I'll have to think about that.
- Definitely something to consider.
- You've given me a lot to think about.
- Indeed. / Good point.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After presenting something as 'food for thought':
- The speaker might pause to let the idea sink in.
- Listeners might ask clarifying questions or start discussing the implications of the idea.
- What makes you say that?
- How would that work in practice?
Conversation Starter
- Yes. Can be used to introduce an idea intended to provoke thought or discussion, though often used mid-conversation or as a concluding remark.
Intonation
- Emphasis often on food and thought. FOOD for THOUGHT.
- Can be said thoughtfully, suggestively, or sometimes as a concluding remark.
Generation Differences
- Widely understood and used by all generations.
Regional Variations
- Common in all English-speaking regions.