Heraclitus emphasized that both humanity and the universe are in a state of constant transformation by stating that there is nothing permanent except change itself. In this cycle,
it is not only people or events that change, but also words themselves, part of this continuous flow. So, is it possible to express change not simply ‘’ to change’’, but through
a more layered and deeper form of expression like idioms? Today, we will explore English idioms about change that express change not as a simple action, but as an experience and a transformation.
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25 Idioms About Change
Here are 25 different English idioms that can be used to express change!
The Winds of Change
Meaning: The feeling that change is near.
Example: The creation of AI brought with it the winds of change to the human mind.
Change is on the Horizon
Meaning: The changes that are expected to happen very soon.
Example: If I ever get this job, I know that change is on the horizon.
A Paradigm Shift
Meaning: The major and radical change in perspectives.
Example: Social media has caused a paradigm shift in human communication.
A Tipping Point
Meaning: The critical point at which everything begins to change.
Example: That one lie became a tipping point in their relationship.
Turn the Tide
Meaning: To reverse something dramatically.
Example: My new motto really helped with turning the tide of my life.
A Sea Change
Meaning: A significant change that someone or something has.
Example: After graduation, she made a sea change in her appearance.
Shake Things Up
Meaning: To cause a change by disrupting the usual routine.
Example: I decided to shake things up in my monotonous life by going out for a party.
Flip the Script
Meaning: Reversing to something expected to something unexpected.
Example: Everyone thought she wouldn’t be able to do it, but she flipped the script and surprised them.
Turn the Tables
Meaning: By turning the situation around and gaining the upper hand.
Example: After a long argument, she managed to turn the tables.
Change Gears
Meaning: Change of strategy or direction.
Example: You should change gears if you want to be successful.
A Change of Pace
Meaning: A shift in usual routine.
Example: She was freaked out because her friends wanted a change of pace.
Turn Over A New Leaf
Meaning: To make a new start.
Example: After a long-term recovery, she managed to turn over a new leaf.
Turning the Page
Meaning: Opening a clean page, making a new start.
Example: I am turning the page and focusing on my future from now on.
Starting from Scratch
Meaning: Beginning something again from zero.
Example: I had to start from scratch because I lost everything.
Out With the Old, In With the New
Meaning: Leaving the old behind and embracing the new one.
Example: Out with the old, in with the new; she really needed that fresh start.
Reinvent Oneself
Meaning: To create a new style or persona for oneself.
Example: If you are not feeling confident about your life, you can always reinvent yourself.
Blow Away the Cobwebs
Meaning: Cleansing the mind and body.
Example: After work, a cup of warm tea could blow away the cobwebs.
Turn A Corner
Meaning: Starting to improve or passing the critical point.
Example: My hard work finally paid off, and I turned a corner in my business.
Take Shape
Meaning: Slowly progressing the new starts.
Example: Our next plan is starting to take shape.
Move the Needle
Meaning: Making a noticeable difference, instead of small changes.
Example: This policy might move the needle on climate change.
Move Up the Ladder
Meaning: Advancing in career or life positions.
Example: My professor’s recommendation helped me move up the ladder
A Breath of Fresh Air
Meaning: New and refreshing changes.
Example: My new haircut is a breath of fresh air; I feel much better now.
A Change of Heart
Meaning: A change of opinions or attitudes.
Example: If I had a change of heart, I would not be here right now.
Change Your Tune
Meaning: Changing your opinions or attitudes completely.
Example: She immediately changed her tune after she heard the event was crowded.
To Be In Flux
Meaning: Being in a state of constant change.
Example: Most people in their teenage years experience being in flux.
Frequently Asked Questions About Idioms Related to Change
Now that we learned about the idioms, let’s look at some questions about them.
Are these idioms informal?
Most idioms about change are informal or semi-formal and generally used in everyday language.
What does ‘’A Breath of Fresh Air’’ mean?
“A breath of fresh air” means something new, refreshing, or positive that brings physical and mental relief from boredom, routine, or unpleasant situations.
Where is “turn the tables” used?
“Turn the tables” is used when someone changes a situation by gaining the advantage after being in a weaker position.
What is the best way to learn these idioms?
Memorizing English idioms alone is not practical. The most effective way to learn them is to hear them in real contexts and practice using them. Since EnglishCentral presents idioms through real-life videos and speaking practice, it helps make both their meanings and usage more permanent.
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