Has anyone ever told you to “turn over a new leaf”? Do you know the meaning of this phrase and when is appropriate to use it? If your answer is “No” then it’s time for you to turn over a new leaf and learn more about the English language.
Idiom: Turn over a new leaf
Definition: To begin anew; start fresh; change one’s behavior or attitude for the better
Example: Gabby’s New Year resolutions normally start with a pledge to turn over a new leaf.
Origin: People often used the word “leaves” to describe pages of the book in the 16th century. When they turned a new leaf (page) from their workbook, it was a blank page, which is a obvious metaphor for a clean slate. So when someone is turning a new leaf in life, it connotes starting a new page in life.
A popular documentation of the use of the phrase occurred after Oscar Wilde was released from jail. A friend of Wilde’s suggested that he “turn over a new leaf” upon discovering Wilde in bed with a bell boy.
Accent Reduction idioms series
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