PhrasesHub

Talk of the Devil

    Definitions

      • to indicate that someone has appeared just as they were being talked about
        Used when a person who is the subject of conversation unexpectedly appears

      • to discourage someone
        Advise against engaging in a particular activity or task, cautioning that it will not result in any positive outcome or benefit

    Examples of Talk of the Devil

    • Sarah's phone suddenly started ringing as soon as her friend mentioned Sarah's name during their conversation. Sarah's friend exclaimed, "It's the talk of the devil!"

      When something unexpected and coincidental happens immediately after someone mentions or brings up a certain person or topic, it's often described as the talk of the devil as if that person or topic has a supernatural or mysterious influence.

    • The police arrived at the scene just as the burglars were trying to escape. The victim exclaimed, "It's the talk of the devil!"

      Similarly, when an event or situation occurs as if it were orchestrated by fate, coincidence, or divine intervention, it can be described as the talk of the devil.

    • Jacob had been thinking about his old friend John for weeks, and then one day, John called him out of the blue. Jacob remarked, "It's the talk of the devil!"

      This idiom can also be used to describe instances where a thought, idea, or memory seems to spontaneously resurface or manifest after a prolonged period of absence or dormancy.

    • Just as Amanda was complaining about the poor service at the restaurant, the manager came over to apologize and offer them a complimentary dessert. Amanda exclaimed, "What a relief! It's the talk of the devil!"

      In some cases, this idiom can also be used humorously to express relief or gratitude when a negative situation is suddenly resolved or turned around. In these examples, the talk of the devil refers to a supernatural or mysterious force that seems to have a powerful and influential effect on events and circumstances. It's often used to describe coincidences, occurrences, or events that seem too coincidental or unexpected to be explained by pure chance alone.

    • As soon as I mentioned Sarah's name, everyone's attention turned to her. It's like the talk of the devil himself had descended upon us.

      In this example, "talk of the devil" is being used figuratively to describe someone or something that causes instant and unexpected attention or controversy. When the speaker mentions Sarah's name, it's as if the mere mention of a notorious figure has caused a commotion, drawing all eyes and ears to Sarah.

    • Ever since I brought up the topic of politics at dinner, the conversation has been dominated by opposing views. It's almost as if the devil himself had shown up to divide us.

      This example shows how "talk of the devil" can also be used to describe topics that have the power to cause division and controversy. The speaker's discussion of politics has sparked a fiery debate, with opposing views dividing the group as if an ominous figure were steering the conversation.

    • I couldn't shake the feeling that I was being followed, and as soon as I looked over my shoulder, I saw her. It's always the talk of the devil that comes to haunt me.

      In this example, "talk of the devil" is being used to describe someone or something that is a constant source of trouble or misfortune. The speaker feels as if she is being followed, and the moment she turns around, she sees someone she doesn't want to see. This person is like a supernatural force that always manages to find her no matter how hard she tries to avoid her.

    • Every time I try to leave this city, something comes up. It's like the devil himself is keeping me here.

      This example shows how "talk of the devil" can also be used to describe obstacles or challenges that prevent one from achieving their goals. The speaker feels as if an unseen force is preventing her from leaving the city. This force, like the devil himself, seems to have a powerful hold on her, keeping her captive and thwarting her plans.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "Talk of the Devil" can be used to indicate the sudden appearance of someone who is being talked about, or to advise against engaging in a particular activity.

    Origin of "Talk of the Devil"

    The phrase "Talk of the Devil" is believed to have originated from an old superstition. In some cultures, it was believed that speaking about the Devil would bring bad luck or even summon the Devil himself. Therefore, when someone was being talked about and suddenly appeared, it was seen as an ominous coincidence. Over time, the phrase evolved to simply mean the unexpected appearance of the person being talked about.

    The superstition surrounding the Devil and the belief in bad luck associated with speaking about him likely led to the origin of this idiom. It has since become a common phrase used in everyday conversation to express surprise when the subject of discussion suddenly appears.