THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
Sleep on it
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
To wait, usually until the next day, before making a decision so you can consider it carefully.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- Can I sleep on it and give you my answer tomorrow?
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
Try the question without looking back, then write a sentence of your own. You can retry as often as you like.
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Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
Can I ________ and give you my answer tomorrow?
Show the answer
Sleep on it — To wait, usually until the next day, before making a decision so you can consider it carefully.
Try your own sentence (optional)
Make it yours
Write one sentence using “Sleep on it” about your own life.
Check your sentence
Does your sentence match this meaning?
To wait, usually until the next day, before making a decision so you can consider it carefully.
Compare: Can I sleep on it and give you my answer tomorrow?
Check the spelling and how the expression fits the sentence. Your example can be different.
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More ways to understand and use it
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When to use it
Use this expression when a non-urgent choice deserves more thought. It is conversational and can be a tactful way to ask for time before answering.
More examples in context
- We decided to sleep on the proposal before choosing a supplier.
- After sleeping on it, I realised the evening class suited me better.
Usage note
It refers to the decision or proposal already mentioned. The past form is slept on it. This is different from literally sleeping on a bed or sofa; the decision is being delayed for thought.
A short conversation
A: Would you like to join the weekend course?
B: It sounds interesting. Could I sleep on it?
A: Of course. Let me know tomorrow.
One more practice question
What does a person intend to do when they ask to sleep on a proposal?
A. Take time to consider it before deciding.
B. Accept it immediately without thinking further.
Check your answer
A. The person is delaying the decision to consider it more carefully.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.