took someone's fancy
Caught their eye
To take someone's fancy is to attract or appeal to them, often in a sudden or whimsical way.
The phrase suggests a light, spontaneous attraction rather than deep consideration.
The vintage lamp took her fancy, so she bought it on the spot.
Something that takes your fancy catches your interest or pleases you, whether it's a person, object, or idea.
The expression is more common in British English than American.
- delightIntense pleasure or satisfaction
- allureAttractive, tempting quality
- love at first sightImmediate romantic attraction to stranger
- preferenceFavored choice among alternatives
- captivateHold attention irresistibly
personal taste · intrigue · magnetism · whimsy · on a whim · turn of phrase · charisma · uniqueness · fascination · piqued my interest · novelty · guilty pleasure · seduction · enchant · please · spontaneity · inclination · amuse