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it dawned on me
/ɪt dɔːnd ɒn mi/
to suddenly realize something
It dawned on me that I had forgotten my keys.
I suddenly realized that I had left my keys behind.
informal
To gradually become aware of something, often after a period of confusion or ignorance.
As I looked at the empty fridge, it dawned on me that I needed to go grocery shopping.
I realized that I needed to buy food when I saw the empty fridge.
It dawned on her that she had been talking to her boss the entire time.
She suddenly realized that her boss was the person she had been speaking to.
This phrase is often used to describe a moment of sudden realization after a period of not noticing something obvious.
Collocations
it dawned on meto suddenly realize something
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage Context
Use 'it dawned on me' when describing a gradual realization rather than an immediate one.
Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
Do not use this phrase too frequently, as it can sound repetitive in conversation.
Word Origin
The phrase comes from the metaphorical use of 'dawn' to describe the gradual appearance of light, symbolizing the gradual realization of an idea or fact.
Usage Notes
This phrase is commonly used in informal contexts to describe a moment of sudden understanding or realization.
English Dictionary