be new to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be new to" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used in the context of describing someone's unfamiliarity or inexperience with something or someone. Here are a few examples: - She was new to the city and didn't know anyone. - This job is new to me, so I'm still learning the ropes. - I've never tried sushi before, so it's all new to me. - He's still new to the team, so give him some time to adjust. - The students were new to the subject, but they quickly caught on. - The concept of virtual reality was completely new to him.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Plainly, an event does not have to be new to be news.

The Guardian - Books

But other troupes will be new to most New York dance fans.

The New York Times

This is all old news, but it might still be new to many readers.

Columbia University

Nick Clegg might be new to power.

The Guardian - Opinion

None of this will be new to world travelers.

The New York Times

Review any words that may be new to students.

The New York Times

That song will be new to the Broadway revival.

The New York Times

"This is not going to be new to them".

The New York Times

The people may not be new to the business but they may be new to working with each other.

The New York Times

There is little material that will be new to scholars.

The New York Times - Books

You must be new to the self-hatred game.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be new to", clarify what the subject is unfamiliar with to provide context for the reader. For example, instead of saying "He is new", specify "He is new to the team".

Common error

Avoid assuming that if something is "new to" one person, it is universally new. Always consider your audience and their potential prior knowledge.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be new to" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or pronoun. It describes a state of unfamiliarity or inexperience. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, as exemplified in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

18%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "be new to" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to express unfamiliarity or inexperience. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and commonly used across various contexts, especially in news, media, and scientific domains. While alternatives exist, such as "unfamiliar with" or "inexperienced in", "be new to" provides a straightforward way to indicate a state of novelty. When using the phrase, clarity is key—ensure you specify what the subject is new to. Remember that individual experiences may vary, and what's new to one person may not be universally so. Mastering this phrase enhances clarity and precision in communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unfamiliar with

Focuses on a lack of knowledge or experience.

inexperienced in

Highlights a lack of practical skills.

a novice at

Suggests a beginner status.

unacquainted with

Emphasizes a lack of prior knowledge or introduction.

not yet familiar with

Indicates a current state of unfamiliarity that may change.

newbie to

Informal term indicating a recent introduction.

just starting with

Focuses on the beginning of an experience.

unversed in

Implies a lack of training or study.

green to

Informal way to describe inexperience.

uninitiated in

Suggests a lack of introduction to a particular practice or field.

FAQs

How can I use "be new to" in a sentence?

You can use "be new to" to indicate unfamiliarity or inexperience with something. For example, "She will "be new to" the city, so offer her some help getting around."

What are some alternatives to "be new to"?

Alternatives include "unfamiliar with", "inexperienced in", or "a novice at". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "I am new to this"?

Yes, "I am new to this" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase. It means you are unfamiliar with or have little experience in something.

What's the difference between "be new to" and "new at"?

"Be new to" generally refers to a lack of familiarity or experience, whereas "new at" specifically indicates inexperience in performing a skill or task. For example, "I am new to the area" versus "I am new at playing guitar".