Mind You: What does “Mind You” Mean? How to Use It Correctly?

The idiomatic phrase “mind you” is one that you may hear or see used occasionally in everyday conversation and writing. Here you will find the meaning of the phrase and the information regarding its origin. You will also find some examples of how to properly use the phrase in conversations/statements and some alternative ways to say “mind you” while still conveying the same meaning.

Mind You

Mind You Meaning

“Mind you” is an idiomatic saying that means to add emphasis on a statement someone is currently making so that any proceeding statements will be completely understood. It usually makes the preceding statement less general and less harsh. The phrase is also used to indicate a statement that someone should pay attention to and give careful consideration to.

Origin of this idiom

Very little is mentioned about the origin of this phrase other than to say it is a form of Old English and is not often used today. The phrase seems to be more popular in British speech than in American. In British speech, the phrase is often reduced to simply using mind and the word you is eliminated from the phrase.

“Mind You” Examples

Example Statements

A statement made by a weather person on the local news.

  • “The holiday coming up means many people will head to the beach to enjoy the last days before summer ends, mind you, the weather will not be ideal for any kind of outdoor activities.”

A statement made by the local police chief during a press conference.

  • “We bought a person in for questioning that we believed to be involved in the crime, mind you, he was not and we will continue to search for the guilty person or persons.”

Example Conversations

A conversation between two friends over coffee.

  • Friend 1: How was your date with Evan last night?
  • Friend 2: It was pretty decent. We had a good time.
  • Friend 1: Just decent?
  • Friend 2: Yes, decent. Evan is a nice person, mind you, he is not the type of guy I usually date. We are taking things slowly.

A conversation between a husband and wife.

  • Wife: I think we should go somewhere tropical and exotic this year for vacation.
  • Husband: Sure. if that is what you want to do we can make it happen, mind you, I do not like the beach at all.

More helpful examples

  • Mind you, don’t leave the windows open when you go out.
  • He’s very untidy about the house; mind you, I’m not much better.
  • This knife is sharp. Mind you don’t cut yourself!
  • They pay full rates. Mind you, they can afford it.
  • He looks very young in this photo. Mind you, it was taken years ago.
  • Don’t try to outshine others. They can oust you from office, mind you.

Other Ways to Say “Mind You”

Like all idiomatic phrases, this phrase has many ways that it can be said alternatively and still convey the same meaning. Other ways you can say the idiom “mind you” include:

What does “Mind You” Mean? | Picture

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