informal3K

UK//nɛkst θɪŋ jə nəʊ//US//nɛkst θɪŋ jə noʊ//

Meaning of Next thing you know

A phrase indicating something happens suddenly or unexpectedly.

In simple words: Then something happens quickly or unexpectedly.

Next thing you know in a sentence

  • I was watching TV, and the next thing you know, it's midnight!
  • We were laughing, and the next thing you know, everyone was crying.
  • I stepped outside for a moment, and the next thing you know, it started raining.

How to use Next thing you know

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Imagine a surprised face saying, 'Oh, the next thing you know!'

Related words

Collocations with Next thing you know

  • and the next thing you know
  • next thing you know, it's
  • before you know it, the next thing you know

Synonyms for Next thing you know

Opposites of Next thing you know

Common mistakes with Next thing you know

  • Using it in a formal context.
  • Confusing it with 'next thing,' which is less specific.
  • Overusing it in conversations.

Compare Next thing you know with Suddenly, All of a sudden

Next thing you know appears in

Next thing you know in other languages

More chunks like Next thing you know

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Frequently asked questions about Next thing you know

What does Next thing you know mean?

Then something happens quickly or unexpectedly.

What is the definition of Next thing you know?

A phrase indicating something happens suddenly or unexpectedly.

How do you use Next thing you know in a sentence?

I was watching TV, and the next thing you know, it's midnight!

Can you give another example of Next thing you know?

We were laughing, and the next thing you know, everyone was crying.

What are synonyms for Next thing you know?

Common alternatives include suddenly, before you know it, in no time, all of a sudden.

What is the opposite of Next thing you know?

Opposite meanings include previously, earlier, beforehand, last thing you realize.

What words go with Next thing you know?

It commonly pairs with and the next thing you know, next thing you know, it's, before you know it, the next thing you know.

What are common mistakes when using Next thing you know?

Using it in a formal context. Confusing it with 'next thing,' which is less specific. Overusing it in conversations.

How do you pronounce Next thing you know?

US: //nɛkst θɪŋ jə noʊ//, UK: //nɛkst θɪŋ jə nəʊ//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is Next thing you know formal or informal?

"Next thing you know" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use Next thing you know?

Used in casual conversation to describe a sudden change or event. Not suitable for formal writing.