It’s not quite what I had in mind
/ɪts nɒt kwaɪt wɒt aɪ hæd ɪn maɪnd/
Definition
The meaning: It’s not quite what I had in mind is an expression used to indicate that something does not fully match one’s expectations or original idea.
La signification: Cette expression est utilisée pour indiquer que quelque chose ne correspond pas tout à fait à ce que l'on avait imaginé ou prévu.
Note: This phrase is often used politely to express mild disappointment or a need for adjustment.
Word Analysis
French synonyms
» Ce n'est pas exactement ce que j'avais en tête
» Ce n'est pas tout à fait ce que j'imaginais
» Ce n'est pas vraiment ce que j'avais prévu
A: Alors, tu aimes la décoration ?
B: Hmm... ce n'est pas tout à fait ce que j'avais en tête.
English synonyms
» That’s not exactly what I was thinking
» It’s a little different from what I had imagined
» It’s not what I was expecting
A: Do you like the decoration?
B: Hmm... it’s not quite what I had in mind.
Example Dialogue
Thabang: "So, what do you think of the new office layout?"
Palesa: "Hmm... it's not quite what I had in mind."
Thabang: "Oh? What were you expecting?"
Palesa: "I thought it would be more spacious and have brighter lighting."
Etymology
Origin: The phrase "It’s not quite what I had in mind" is a common English expression used to convey that something does not fully match one's expectations or original idea. The phrase likely evolved naturally in conversational English as a polite way to express mild disappointment or suggest a need for change. The word "quite" serves to soften the statement, making it less direct or confrontational.
Audience
The phrase "It’s not quite what I had in mind" is commonly used in everyday conversations, workplace discussions, and customer feedback. It is particularly relevant in polite communication when expressing that something does not fully meet expectations.
When to use: Use this phrase when giving feedback, expressing mild disappointment, or suggesting an alternative. For example:
"The design is nice, but it’s not quite what I had in mind."
It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, including business discussions, creative projects, and everyday interactions.
Dictionary Meaning
iidprints.co.uk has a woderful print that explains our expression better than most dictionaries would. Here's my example of use:
"The school has accepted her. But the syllabus isn't quite what she had in mind."
News Snippet
"What I had in mind is that Paras through Estina would be doing products on the project. They are the sole owners of the products on the project. They brand them like any other company that has intellectual property on any other projects,” he began"
Read the full article at The Daily Maverick
Extra! Extra!
For a fun and engaging exploration of our word of the day, watch the following…
Video Lesson One
Video Lesson Two
WordReference
When exploring the nuances of words, sometimes dictionaries don't provide enough context. The WordReference Forums offer insightful discussions that delve into the subtleties of language, including idiomatic expressions, usage nuances, and translations across languages.
Here are some quick links to help you navigate WordReference for deeper understanding:
» Read about today's word of the day.
» English⇄English–Discuss and learn about words and their usage.
» English⇄French–Explore translations and linguistic nuances
» Synonyms⇄Antonyms–Contextual variations, etc.
Common Terms & Expressions
Have in mind: To be thinking about sth or sb for a specific purpose or reason.
"Do you have anyone in mind for the new position?"
Not quite what I had in mind: A phrase used when sth does not match expectations or plans.
"This dress is not quite what I had in mind for the wedding."
Bear in mind: To remember or consider sth when making a decision.
"Bear in mind that this is only a rough estimate."
Keep in mind: To remember sth important.
"Please keep in mind that the deadline is next Monday."
Make up one's mind: To make a decision.
"I can’t decide! I need more time to make up my mind."
Change one's mind: To decide sth different from what was previously planned.
"She was going to move abroad, but she changed her mind."
Slip one's mind: To forget sth.
"I meant to call you, but it completely slipped my mind."
Speak one's mind: To express one's opinions honestly.
"She always speaks her mind, even when it's unpopular."
Give sb a piece of one's mind: To express anger or frustration toward sb.
"If he's late again, I'll give him a piece of my mind."
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