Speak of the Devil — Meaning, Usage & Examples

What it means...

Said when someone appears just after you were talking about them.

You say speak of the devil when the person you were just discussing suddenly shows up or contacts you.

It's always used in the moment of arrival, as a playful reaction.

Use it when…

When someone walks in right as you were talking about them
When you receive a call or message from someone you were just discussing
When a person's timing is so coincidental it feels like they heard what you were saying

Don’t confuse with...

"Talk of the Town"

—

Someone or something that everyone is currently discussing

"There They Are"

—

A simple statement pointing out someone's arrival, with no special timing implied

"Speak of the Devil"

—

Reacting with surprise when someone appears right after you mentioned them

Where you’ll hear it

You’ll hear the "Speak of the Devil" idiom in real life — at work, in relationships, or in the media.

Work & Business

Office Conversations

Colleagues are discussing a manager's decision when he walks into the room — speak of the devil.

Relationships & Social Life

Social Gatherings

Friends at a dinner party are talking about someone who is late when that person walks through the door — speak of the devil.

Media & Everyday Life

Daily Situations

Two friends are mid-conversation about a mutual acquaintance when their phone lights up with a message from that exact person.

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Use it like this

Here’s how to use "Speak of the Devil" idiom naturally in real conversations, with real examples.

Work & Business

Casual Chats

You

Speak of the devil — we were literally just talking about you.

Colleague

Good things, I hope — what did I miss?

Relationships

Talking to Friend

You

I was literally just telling Anna about your new job — and then you called.

Friend

Ha — speak of the devil! What were you saying?

Everyday Conversations

Storytelling

Friend

Speak of the devil — look who just walked into the cafe.

You

I cannot believe that — I was mid-sentence talking about him.

‹›

Last updated:

April 20, 2026

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