turning a new leaf

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "turning a new leaf" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a change in behavior or a fresh start, often in a positive context. Example: "After years of struggling with bad habits, she decided it was time for turning a new leaf and focus on her health."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

"We're turning a new leaf on that today".

The New York Times

"It will mean burying discord and disunity and turning a new leaf of harmony and prosperity".

The New York Times

Ms. Simpson, who had gotten "ready in a conference room," she said, was turning a new leaf.

The New York Times

That was a flat lie, and it was a reminder to be wary of Bahrain assurances as the country claims to be turning a new leaf.

The New York Times

In both cases, Amazon and Walmart have built reputations on being super competitive (read: cheap) on pricing, but they both appear to be turning a new leaf with their new waves of business.

TechCrunch

She senses him turning a new leaf and accepts an invitation to dinner.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Mr. Kindler said he intended to turn a new leaf on the legal troubles, too.

The New York Times

Has the Leader of the Revolution truly turned a new leaf?

The New York Times - Magazine

While in no way a fan of Mr. Spitzer's personal behavior, I admire his determination to turn a new leaf.

The New York Times

"What better way to turn a new leaf and go from being the biggest loser to the biggest hero?

The Guardian

Western leaders were right to have given him a chance to turn a new leaf after 2003, when he renounced his nuclear programme.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "turning a new leaf" when you want to convey a deliberate and positive change in someone's behavior or habits. It's particularly effective when the change follows a period of negative actions or poor choices.

Common error

Avoid using "turning a new leaf" to describe minor changes or adjustments. This idiom suggests a significant, often morally-driven, transformation. Using it for trivial matters can sound exaggerated or inappropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "turning a new leaf" functions as an idiomatic expression signifying a deliberate change in behavior, often for the better. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this expression is commonly used to denote a fresh start and a commitment to improving one's actions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "turning a new leaf" is a common idiomatic phrase that signifies a fresh start and a positive change in behavior. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, highlighting its presence in various contexts, particularly News & Media. The phrase carries a neutral register and is often used to convey a deliberate decision to improve one's actions. Alternatives include "making a fresh start" and "changing one's ways". Avoid using the phrase for minor changes, as it implies a significant transformation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

making a fresh start

Focuses on the act of beginning again, less specific about behavioral change.

changing one's ways

Highlights the alteration of habits or behavior, omitting the fresh start aspect.

reforming oneself

Emphasizes personal improvement and moral correction, implying prior faults.

starting over

Simple and direct, indicating a new beginning without specifying what is being left behind.

beginning anew

Similar to 'starting over' but with a slightly more formal tone.

adopting a new attitude

Stresses a change in mindset or perspective, rather than overall behavior.

getting a clean slate

Emphasizes the removal of past mistakes and the opportunity for a fresh start.

making amends

Focuses on correcting past wrongs and restoring relationships.

seeing the light

Suggests a realization of truth or a shift from negative behavior to positive.

charting a new course

Implies a change in direction or strategy, often in a life or career context.

FAQs

How can I use "turning a new leaf" in a sentence?

You can use "turning a new leaf" to describe a significant change in behavior, for example: "After his arrest, he resolved to "turn a new leaf" and dedicate his life to helping others."

What is the origin of the idiom "turning a new leaf"?

The idiom "turning a new leaf" is thought to originate from the practice of physically turning a page in a book, symbolizing a fresh start or a new chapter in one's life.

What can I say instead of "turning a new leaf"?

You can use alternatives like "making a fresh start", "changing one's ways", or "reforming oneself" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "turning over a new leaf" the same as "turning a new leaf"?

Yes, "turning over a new leaf" and "turning a new leaf" are essentially interchangeable and carry the same meaning of making a fresh start.