English phrases

How to say “speak of the devil

Meaning

Used when someone who has just been mentioned appears unexpectedly.

When to use

When a person you were just talking about suddenly arrives or is seen.

Hear it in context

A: 'We were just talking about Tom.' B: 'Well, speak of the devil, here he comes now.'

Alternative expressions

  • talk of the devil
  • mention someone and they appear
  • speak of the devil and he doth appear

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