where (one) is coming from

(redirected from where he's coming from)

where (one) is coming from

One's motivation or reason for doing something or holding some position or opinion. The phrase indicates that one understands the circumstances that led one to an action or opinion. Look, I understand where you're coming from—and I kind of agree with you—but rules are rules, and I can't let you do that. If Gina would explain her situation a little better, I think they'd see where she's coming from.

where one is coming from

one's point of view. I think I know what you mean. I know where you're coming from. Man, you don't know where I'm coming from! You don't understand a single word I say.

where one is coming from

What one means, from one's point of view, based on one's background or prior experience. For example, I don't believe in capital punishment, but as a pacifist you know where I'm coming from . [Second half of 1900s]

where someone is coming from

someone's meaning, motivation, or personality. informal

where somebody is ˈcoming from

(informal, spoken) somebody’s ideas, beliefs, personality, etc. that makes them say what they have said: I see where you’re coming from (= I understand what you mean).