do a double take
Meaning
To react with sudden surprise and look again because you think you mis-saw or misheard something.
Origin
From film/acting slang: a “take” is a shot; a “double take” described repeating a take, and came to mean doing a quick second look after a surprising sight.
Notes
Informal and vivid; implies surprise or disbelief. Often about seeing something unexpected, but can also refer to rechecking what you heard or read.
Examples
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I did a double take when I saw my high school teacher on the subway.
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She had to do a double take because the sign said the cafe was open at 3 a.m.
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He did a double take at the price tag, sure he’d read it wrong.
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We all did a double take when the quiet intern started singing opera in the break room.
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I did a double take after hearing my name mentioned in a conversation across the room.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Fixed phrase: “do a double take” (also “did/does”). Common patterns: “do a double take at [something]” or “when I saw/heard…”. Can be a noun: “a double take.”
Synonyms
- do a double-take
- look twice
- do a double look
- take a second look
Antonyms
- take it in stride
- not bat an eye