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The phrase “mind you” is commonly heard or seen in daily conversations and writings. This reference explores the meaning and origin of the phrase, showcasing how it is used in conversations and statements. You will find examples of proper use, along with alternative ways to say “mind you” while maintaining the same intent.
Mind You Meaning, Origin and Usage
Key Takeaways
- “Mind you” is a conversational phrase used to emphasize a point, clarify a statement, or add a contrasting or qualifying detail to what has just been said. It can also be used to draw attention to something important or to soften the impact of a previous statement.
What Does “Mind You” Mean?
“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.
When to Use “Mind You”
You can use “mind you” in the following situations:
To Add Clarification or Emphasis:
- When you want to make a point stronger or clearer by adding more detail.
- “She didn’t study much for the exam. Mind you, she’s very smart, so she still passed easily.”
To Introduce a Contrasting Point:
- When you want to highlight something that contrasts with or balances what was just said.
- “I’m not a fan of long meetings. Mind you, today’s meeting was surprisingly productive.”
To Softly Correct or Provide Additional Information:
- When you feel the need to add information that could change the listener’s perception of what was previously said.
- “I don’t usually like spicy food. Mind you, I did enjoy that curry last night.”
To Defend or Justify a Statement:
- When you want to explain or justify a statement you just made.
- “He’s often late to meetings. Mind you, he has a long commute.”
In all these situations, “mind you” serves to draw attention to the added information, giving it importance or contrast. It is often conversational and informal in tone.
Related Terms to “Mind You”
Here are several related terms and phrases to “Mind you” that are used to add clarification, contrast, or emphasis:
- Used to introduce a contrasting or different point.
- “The restaurant was expensive. However, the food was excellent.”
That being said
- Similar to “mind you,” it introduces a point that contrasts with the previous one.
- “The job is tough. That being said, it’s very rewarding.”
Nevertheless
- Used to introduce something that contrasts with or diminishes the importance of what was just said.
- “It was raining heavily. Nevertheless, we went for a walk.”
- Used to introduce a contrasting perspective or consideration.
- “The house is beautiful. On the other hand, it’s far from the city.”
- A simple conjunction used to introduce contrast or contradiction.
- “I’m tired, but I still want to go out.”
Still
- Used to emphasize that something is true despite what was said before.
- “It was late, still, he insisted on staying up.”
Even so
- Used to introduce a point that remains true despite the previous statement.
- “The weather was bad. Even so, we decided to continue the hike.”
These terms, like “mind you,” help shift the focus or clarify the meaning of the previous statement.
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:
- But
- However
- On the other hand
“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.
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