This idiomatic expression, often truncated in casual conversation, refers to the phenomenon of a person arriving or being mentioned just after being discussed. A common scenario might involve two individuals conversing about a third party, only to have that individual unexpectedly appear moments later. In literature, this device can be employed to create dramatic irony or foreshadow events.
Utilizing this trope can add an element of surprise or humor to a narrative. It can also serve as a convenient plot device, facilitating otherwise unlikely encounters or revealing hidden information. The roots of the phrase can be traced back centuries, with variations appearing across different cultures. This suggests a shared human experience of noting coincidences and attributing meaning to seemingly improbable events. Its continued prevalence in modern language underscores its enduring relevance in everyday communication.
