   Took a NotionIn Southern and Appalachian speech, "took a notion" means suddenly decided to do something, often on impulse or for no clear reason. It’s a common storytelling phrase for quick, unexpected decisions. synonyms: decided suddenly, felt like, had the urge Hillbilly Dude Says...  I use and hear 'took a notion' - it's pretty common out in the country. Pronunciation[TOOK uh NO-shun] /tʊk ə ˈnoʊ.ʃən/ Meaning & Usage- To act on a sudden whim or impulse
Mama:
Why’s he out mowin’ in the dark?
Daddy:
Guess he took a notion.variations: take a notion, got a notion, take the notion Origin and EtymologyFrom older English use of "notion" meaning "a whim" or "idea." The phrase "take a notion" or "took a notion" has been recorded in Southern and Appalachian speech since at least the 1800s. It reflects a storytelling rhythm-quick, personal, and lightly humorous-used to explain why somebody did something for no particular reason. Usage NotesUsed in everyday conversation to describe sudden or impulsive action, often with a grin or shake of the head. Common across the South, especially among older speakers and in family storytelling.
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