sleep on it
Meaning
Delay a decision until the next day so you can think more clearly after resting.
Origin
Recorded from the 1800s; based on the idea that after a night’s sleep, emotions settle and the mind processes information, leading to better judgment.
Notes
Common, friendly advice meaning “don’t decide yet; think again tomorrow.” Not literal—just a pause to reflect. Works in both casual and polite contexts.
Examples
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It’s a big decision, so I’m going to sleep on it and let you know tomorrow.
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Before you accept the offer, sleep on it and make sure it feels right.
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We can’t agree right now—let’s sleep on it and talk again in the morning.
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I was ready to quit, but after I slept on it, I realized I just needed a break.
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If you’re unsure about buying it, sleep on it; it’ll still be here next week.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as an imperative (“Sleep on it.”) or with a pronoun/object (“sleep on it/this/that”). Can be inflected: “slept on it,” “sleeping on it.” Typically refers to delaying a decision, not general sleeping.
Synonyms
- think it over
- take some time
- give it some thought
- mull it over
Antonyms
- decide immediately
- make a snap decision
- act on impulse