is new to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is new to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when introducing or describing someone who has recently started a new role or task. Example: "John is new to teaching, but he has quickly proven to be an exceptional educator."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

AileyCamp is new to Newark and to New Jersey.

The New York Times

"This is new to me.

The New York Times - Sports

Nick is new to the game.

The New Yorker

But it is new to archives.

The New Yorker

Not that rubber is new to fashion.

The New York Times

Neither designer is new to the process.

The New York Times

Neither dancer is new to these roles.

The New York Times - Arts

He is new to this.

The New York Times - Sports

All of this is new to Syria.

The Washington Post

Nevertheless, the terrain is new to many.

The New York Times

But it is new to Southern California.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is new to" to clearly indicate that someone or something is encountering a situation, role, or concept for the first time. This helps set expectations and provides context for their actions or understanding.

Common error

Avoid assuming that your audience understands the implications of someone being "new to" something. Provide additional context or explanation to ensure clarity and avoid misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is new to" functions as a linking verb followed by an adjective phrase. It connects a subject to a description of their current state of unfamiliarity or inexperience. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's usable and correct in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is new to" is a common and correct way to express unfamiliarity or inexperience with something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used and understood. It functions as a linking verb construction to connect a subject to a state of being. This phrase appears frequently in news, academic, and scientific contexts. When using "is new to", it's important to provide enough context so that your audience understands the implications of this newness. Consider using alternatives like "is unfamiliar with" or "is just starting out with" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is experiencing for the first time

Directly states the novelty of the experience.

is being introduced to

Highlights the act of being presented with something new.

is unfamiliar with

Focuses on a lack of existing knowledge or experience.

is unaccustomed to

Stresses the lack of prior exposure or habituation.

is just starting out with

Emphasizes the beginning phase of involvement.

is a novice at

Highlights inexperience in a specific area.

is in the early stages of

Focuses on the initial phase of development or involvement.

is entering into

Suggests a transition into a new state or situation.

is freshly acquainted with

Implies a recent and perhaps superficial introduction.

is discovering

Emphasizes the process of learning and becoming aware.

FAQs

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

You can use "is new to" to describe someone's inexperience with a particular subject, role, or environment. For example, "She "is new to" the company, so please be patient with her." or "This technology "is new to" the market."

What are some alternatives to "is new to"?

Alternatives include "is unfamiliar with", "is just starting out with", or "is being introduced to", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "is new at" or "is new to"?

While both can be used, "is new to" is generally preferred when referring to a situation, place, or concept. "Is new at" might be more appropriate when referring to a skill or activity, but "is new to" remains versatile in most contexts.

What does it imply when someone "is new to" something?

It implies that they lack experience or prior knowledge in that area, suggesting a need for guidance, understanding, or a learning curve.