Have you ever mentioned someone and they suddenly showed up right in front of you Moments like that are both surprising and amusing. In English, there is a popular idiom to describe this situation — speak of the devil. Though commonly used in daily conversation, not everyone fully understands how to use this expression correctly.
In this guide, IDP IELTS will walk you through the meaning, origin, usage, and practical examples of speak of the devil, including how to use it in IELTS Speaking.
1 What Does Speak of the Devil Mean
Speak of the devil is an idiom used when someone appears just after being mentioned
Its Vietnamese equivalent is “Nhat Tao Thao Tao Thao den”
Examples
I was about to text you to ask where you were and speak of the devil you just walked in
We were just talking about grabbing coffee with Lisa and speak of the devil here she comes with two cups
Key point This idiom expresses surprise in a humorous and friendly way and is not considered negative
2 Origin and Usage of Speak of the Devil
Origin
Comes from the old English phrase “Speak of the devil and he doth appear”
In the past people believed that mentioning evil spirits could summon them
Over time the phrase lost its superstitious meaning and became a lighthearted expression
How to use it
Use speak of the devil when
Someone unexpectedly appears while you are talking about them
You receive a message or call from someone you were just discussing
Something you were talking about happens at that exact moment
Examples
We were just talking about Alex and speak of the devil here he comes
I was just mentioning Lily and speak of the devil she just texted me
We were complaining about the internet and speak of the devil it crashed
3 Speak of the Devil vs There He She Is
In daily communication, many people easily confuse the two exclamations speak of the devil and there he/she is, because both express surprise when the person mentioned appears. However, they have different nuances and usage contexts:
Criteria | Speak of the devil | There he or she is |
|---|---|---|
Meaning | Expresses surprise when someone unexpectedly appears right after being mentioned | Indicates the presence of someone you have just seen or located |
Usage context | Used when you are talking or just mentioned someone and they suddenly appear or contact you | Used when you spot or point out someone who has just shown up |
Emotional tone | Friendly surprised and humorous | Neutral used to announce or point out someone casually |
Example | I was just thinking about calling you and speak of the devil here you are | Ah there he is standing by the door |
4 Related Expressions to Speak of the Devil
Besides speak of the devil, English has other interesting expressions for “sudden appearance” or “attracting attention”. Here are some phrases you can use in unexpected situations, similar to speak of the devil:
Phrase | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
Talk of the town | A person or event that everyone is talking about | Her new bakery is the talk of the town. |
Look who’s here | Used to express surprise and joy when someone appears unexpectedly | Well look who’s here Long time no see buddy |
What a coincidence | Used to express a surprising coincidence | I was just about to call you What a coincidence |
5 Using Speak of the Devil in IELTS Speaking and Daily Conversation
In IELTS Speaking
Idioms like speak of the devil make your answers sound more natural
Especially useful in topics about friends daily life or memorable events
Example in IELTS Speaking Part 2
Cue card Describe a friend you have not seen for a long time
Sample introduction Just a few days ago I was talking with another friend about Anna saying how much I missed her And speaking of the devil I ran into her at a bookstore the next day
In daily conversation
Speak of the devil is perfect for casual friendly chats
Often used among friends and colleagues
Example
Emily Hey have you finished the report for Mr Lee
Jake Not yet I was going to ask for feedback
Emily Speak of the devil here he comes now
Mr Lee Good morning team How is that report coming along
6 Practice Exercise with Speak of the Devil
Which of the following situations are suitable for using speak of the devil
1 You are telling a friend about someone you have not seen in a long time and that person suddenly appears
2 You are telling a colleague about your boss and he walks into the room
3 Just as you mention your best friend they call you
4 You have just ordered food and the waiter brings it quickly
5 You were looking for Sarah and she suddenly appears
Answers
1 Suitable
2 Suitable
3 Suitable
4 Not suitable
5 Suitable
Master English Idioms Like Speak of the Devil with IDP
Learning idioms such as speak of the devil can make your English more natural and expressive. In the IELTS Speaking test, using idioms accurately and naturally is a plus and shows your language proficiency.
Keep following IDP for more idioms tips and IELTS learning resources. If you are preparing for the IELTS test, explore our sample questions and test strategies to improve your performance.
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