clause🎓 English idiom

my mind went blank

suddenly couldn't remember or think clearly

What it means

'My mind went blank' describes the experience of suddenly being unable to remember something or form a thought, usually because of stress, surprise, or pressure. It often happens during tests, presentations, or important moments. The phrase emphasizes a momentary loss of mental clarity rather than ignorance.

Examples

  • I knew the answer the night before, but during the exam my mind went blank.
  • She asked me my own phone number and my mind just went blank.
  • He was about to give his speech when his mind went blank and he forgot the opening line.
  • Every time I see him my mind goes blank and I can't think of what to say.

Where it comes from

A modern English expression that draws on the metaphor of the mind as a writing surface or screen. 'Blank' here suggests an empty page where words or memories should appear, and the phrase became common in the 20th century.

Related idioms

#don't play dumb#all hell broke loose#know it like the back of my hand#take a rain check

🎓 Think you know your idioms?

Take the English Idioms Test — 20 terms, instant result, no signup.

Take the test

Built by the team behind Deep In.