turn over a new leaf

The phrase turn over a new leaf is often used in English, but what does this idiom mean? When idioms are used in the right situations, they strengthen communication and enrich the language. You can communicate more effectively by learning the meaning of turn over a new leaf.

Meaning of "turn over a new leaf"

Meaning

The idiom 'turn over a new leaf' is a metaphor for making an effort to improve oneself, to live a better life, or to start something fresh and new. It suggests that one has made a conscious decision to turn over a new page and to create a better version of themselves, leaving the mistakes of the past behind.

Etymology

This phrase is traceable back to the early 1700s, and is a metaphor taken from a physical book. When a book is finished or a reader wants to start a new chapter, they would literally turn the leaf of the book, or the page, to start a new chapter. The phrase ‘turning over a new leaf’ was then used to describe a person’s decision to start a new chapter in their life, a metaphor that is still used today.

Usage

The phrase ‘turn over a new leaf’ is generally used as a positive phrase in everyday speech. It is usually used when a person has decided to make a positive change in their life or behaviour. The phrase is often used to encourage someone to start doing something good or inspiring, either in their personal or professional life. For example, “having lost his job, he decided to turn over a new leaf and pursue his long-time dream of becoming a chef.”

Example Sentences

• He has decided to turn over a new leaf and apply himself to his studies.
• She is trying to turn over a new leaf and stop smoking.
• The student has promised to turn over a new leaf and not to get into any more trouble.
• He has decided to turn over a new leaf and take more responsibility for his actions.

Idioms have a common language

"The early bird catches the worm" is an English idiom that means that those who wake up early and start their day early are more likely to succeed. A similar idiom in Spanish is "El que madruga, Dios le ayuda," which translates to "God helps those who rise early." This idiom emphasizes the importance of starting the day early in order to achieve success.