use your brain
/juːz jɔːr breɪn/phrase★Intermediate
informal
To think carefully and logically about something
If you use your brain, you’ll realize the answer is obvious.
Suggesting that careful thought would lead to an easy solution.
Stop acting impulsively and use your brain for once!
A critical remark urging someone to think before acting.
💡
Often used to encourage logical thinking or criticize impulsive behavior.
Collocations
use your headsimilar phrase meaning to think carefullyuse your common sensesimilar phrase emphasizing practical reasoning
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related Phrases
think before you actphrase
consider consequences before taking action
use your common sensephrase
apply practical reasoning
💡Pro Tip
Encouragement vs. Criticism
This phrase can be used positively to encourage thoughtful action or negatively to criticize someone for not thinking.
⚡Gold Rule
Context Matters
The tone depends on the situation—use it carefully to avoid sounding condescending.
📖Word Origin
Combination of the verb 'use' and the noun phrase 'your brain', emphasizing the act of thinking.
📝Usage Notes
Common in informal contexts to encourage logical thinking or criticize illogical behavior.
Word Breakdown
use
to apply or employ
verbyour
possessive form of 'you'
pronounbrain
the organ responsible for thinking
nounEnglish Dictionary