Speak of the Devil
Meaning
“Speak of the devil” is a playful expression used when someone you have just been talking about suddenly appears or contacts you. It is usually said with a sense of surprise, as if the person has somehow appeared simply because their name was mentioned.
For example, if you and a friend are talking about another friend and that person suddenly walks into the room, you might laugh and say, “Speak of the devil!” It is not normally meant to suggest that the person is actually bad or “devilish.”
The expression comes from an older proverb, “Speak of the devil and he appears,” which originally had a more superstitious meaning. Today, it is generally harmless and humorous.
Usage
It is an informal expression most often used in relaxed conversations between friends, family members, or colleagues. It works particularly well when someone arrives at exactly the moment they were being discussed.
It can be used when someone physically appears, calls, sends a message, or otherwise makes contact unexpectedly. The phrase is often followed by a greeting, such as “Speak of the devil—here she is!”
The tone is usually playful, although it can occasionally sound teasing if the person being discussed has just been the subject of a joke or complaint.
Example Sentences
- “We were just talking about Sarah, and speak of the devil—here she comes!”
- “Speak of the devil! I was wondering when you were going to call.”
- “We were just discussing our old teacher when he walked into the café. Speak of the devil!”
- “I was telling Mark about your new job, and speak of the devil, he just sent me a message.”
- “Speak of the devil—John just walked through the door!”