[Idiom] DO A DOUBLE TAKE. - Explore the Art of Expressing Surprise

To look at something twice because you are surprised.

The idiom "do a double take" is used when something surprising requires you to take a second look. It originates from performances where actors would react with such exaggerated surprise that they would literally take a second look at something. This phrase has found a place in everyday language to describe moments of astonishment that catch us off guard enough to reevaluate what was just seen or heard.

Example Sentences

1. I did a double take when I saw my friend in that outrageous outfit.

   The sight of my friend in such an unusual outfit made me look twice in surprise.

2. She did a double take after hearing the surprising news.

   Hearing such unexpected news made her look again or react in surprise.

3. Everyone did a double take when the CEO walked in with a new controversial policy.

   The entry of the CEO with unexpected policy changes caused everyone to react with surprise.