How do you use speak of the devil in a sentence?
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—used in speech to say that someone one has been talking about has unexpectedly appeared “Well, speak of the devil! We were just talking about you!”
What is the meaning of to speak of the devil?
“Speaking of the devil” is an idiom referring to someone appearing physically after talking about them, or the other party in your conversation could mention them, resulting in you saying, “Speaking of the devil.”
What is the meaning of speak of the devil and he will appear?
Definition: Said when a person appears just after being mentioned. (Source: New Oxford American Dictionary) The phrase ‘speak of the devil’ is nowadays only used in a joking and relaxed way when someone who was recently being discussed enters the room.
Where does the idiom speak of the devil come from?
The term “Speak of the Devil” is the shortened version of “Speak of the Devil and he doth appear. ” It comes from England in the middle ages,where it wasn’t used in such a light hearted manner.
What figurative language is Speak of the Devil?
Speak of the devil is a phrase used when someone appears who has just been the subject of conversation. The term is a shortened version of the phrase, Speak of the Devil and he will appear.
Is it Speak of the Devil or speaking of the devil?
Senior Member. “Speak of the devil” is the only way this expression is normally used in American English. “Speaking of the devil” would be an interjection used after the devil had been mentioned, for example, if you had an interesting bit of gossip about him to share.
What does the idiom Speak of the Devil mean?
Idiom – Speak of the devil Idiom – Speak of the devil or Talk of the devil Meaning – This expression is used when a person being talked about suddenly appears. The complete phrase is Speak of the devil and he will appear.
What are some expressions that feature the Devil?
Other expressions featuring the devil: 1 Better the devil you know ( idiom) – Something bad and familiar is better than something bad and unknown. 2 Between the devil and the deep blue sea ( idiom) – To be in a situation where you have to choose between two bad things. 3 Crafty devil – A devious or cunning person.
What does speak of the devil-there’s Jeannie mean?
The person just mentioned has appeared, as in Why, speak of the devil-there’s Jeannie. This expression is a shortening of the older Speak of the devil and he’s sure to appear, based on the superstition that pronouncing the devil’s name will cause his arrival on the scene.
What does it mean to be a handsome devil?
Handsome devil – This expression is used to describe somebody very handsome, but probably too charming or mischievous in some way. Idle hands are the devil’s tools ( idiom) – When you have nothing to do you are more likely to get in trouble. Lucky devil – Used to describe someone who is very fortunate.