"Let that sink in" is used to encourage someone to take a moment to fully understand and absorb a particular piece of information or idea.
Imagine that you just heard something important, surprising, or thought-provoking. Instead of immediately reacting or responding, someone might say "Let that sink in," which means they are suggesting you to pause for a moment and allow the information to settle in your mind. It's like giving yourself time to fully grasp the significance of what you've heard before making any judgments or decisions.
The word "sink" here is used metaphorically, as if the information is like a substance that needs time to sink deep into your thoughts and feelings. By "letting it sink in," you give yourself the opportunity to process and understand the information more completely.
Usage example
Billionaire Elon Musk posted a video clip of himself walking into Twitter’s San Francisco headquarters carrying a sink and tweeted: “Let that sink in.”
Example sentences
- After hearing about the sudden passing of his childhood friend, John stood in silence, trying to let that sink in.
- The professor revealed the shocking results of the experiment, and the students needed a moment to let that sink in before asking questions.
- The financial advisor warned his client about the serious implications of their spending habits, urging them to let that sink in before making any further decisions.
- As the CEO announced the company's layoffs, the employees sat in stunned silence, taking a few minutes to let that sink in.
- After being offered the promotion, Jane needed some time alone to let that sink in and consider the added responsibilities.
- The coach delivered a powerful motivational speech to the team, encouraging them to let that sink in and use it as inspiration for their upcoming game.
- When Sarah learned that she had won the prestigious award, she needed a moment to let that sink in before expressing her gratitude.
- The therapist shared a profound insight with her patient, advising them to let that sink in and explore their emotions further during their next session.
- As the astronaut gazed out of the spaceship's window at Earth from space, he couldn't help but let that awe-inspiring sight sink in.
- The author read an excerpt from her book, and the audience was so captivated that they requested a pause to let that powerful message sink in.
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