Speak/talk of the devil

phrase

Used when the person you were just talking about suddenly appears.

I was just telling Laura about my brother's new job, and speak of the devil, here he comes now.

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1

Pro Tip 1/3

Use it to emphasize a coincidence when someone appears just as they are mentioned.

We were just discussing who should lead the project, and speak of the devil, Sarah walks in.

Pro Tip 2/3

It's a casual expression, more common in informal conversations than formal settings.

We were just laughing about old times and, speak of the devil, our old coach appears.

Pro Tip 3/3

Despite 'devil', it's not used to offend but can be a playful way to acknowledge someone's arrival.

You missed Pete's hilarious joke, and oh, speak of the devil, here's Pete now!

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