new
A1Pronunciation
UK
- /njˈuː/
US
- /ˈnju/
- /ˈnu/
Description
- fresh
- recent
- unfamiliar
"New" describes something recently made, discovered, or experienced. It's the opposite of old! Think of a new car gleaming in the sunlight, a new friend you just met, or a new idea sparking in your mind. We often use "new" to signal excitement and possibility – a fresh start, an unexplored path. A "new moon" marks the start of a lunar cycle, symbolizing beginnings.
Sometimes "new" isn't about time at all, but about being unfamiliar. You might feel new to a city even if it's ancient, simply because you haven't explored it before. It can also describe something innovative: "a new approach" or "new technology." So, whether it's a shiny object or a different way of thinking, "new" signals change and potential.
The word "new" seems simple enough – it signifies something that has not existed before, or hasn't been experienced recently. But its meaning is surprisingly versatile, weaving through time, experience, and innovation. Imagine a baker pulling a batch of new bread from the oven; the aroma fills the air with promise. Or picture a child receiving a new toy – their eyes light up with wonder. In these cases, "new" speaks to freshness and recent creation.
However, "new" isn't always about chronology. A seasoned traveler might describe a city as feeling new, even if it's centuries old, because they are experiencing it for the first time. This highlights how "new" can also mean unfamiliar or unknown. It's about your personal experience and perspective.
Beyond simple freshness, "new" often implies improvement or innovation. We talk about a new model of a car, suggesting advancements in design and technology. A scientist might announce a new discovery, pushing the boundaries of knowledge. A politician promises new policies to address old problems. In these contexts, "new" represents progress and change.
The word also carries cultural weight. We celebrate New Year's Day as a symbol of renewal and fresh starts. A newborn baby embodies hope for the future. Even in literature, "brave new world" evokes both excitement and caution about uncharted territory.
So, whether it's a tangible object, a personal experience, or an abstract concept, "new" is a powerful word that speaks to beginnings, possibilities, and the ever-changing nature of life itself. It's a reminder that every moment holds the potential for something fresh and unexplored.
Examples
- 1
New purchase
I bought a new phone because my old one stopped working.
- 2
Job change
She started a new job last month.
- 3
New method
We're trying a new way to save money.
- 4
Unfamiliar information
This information is new to me.
Pattern
new to + person
not known or familiar to that person
- 5
New place
I'm new to the city, so I still get lost sometimes.
Pattern
new to + place
not familiar with that place yet
- 6
Learning stage
I'm still new at this, so I may ask some basic questions.
Pattern
new at + activity
not very experienced with it yet
- 7
Brand new
The sofa isn't brand new, but it still looks good.
Phrase
brand new
completely new
- 8
Second-hand goods
These shoes are second-hand, but they look like new.
Phrase
like new
in very good condition, almost as if never used
- 9
Fresh start
Moving to Canada gave him a new start.
Phrase
a new start
a chance to begin again
- 10
Small talk
What's new at work?
Phrase
What's new?
what has happened recently?
- 11
Social change
For many people, working from home became the new normal.
Phrase
the new normal
a situation that used to be unusual but is now normal
Forms and spellings
3 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- newadjectiveadverb
Forms
- newestsuperlativeadjectiveadverb
- newercomparativeadjectiveadverb