When the new year starts and you vow to lose weight, stop smoking, or get more organized, you’re making a New Year’s resolution. A resolution is a decision to do or not do something. To help you get your list of resolutions started, here are some idioms about becoming a better you.
To start with a clean slate -To forget past mistakes and start completely over
Example: Jimmy got into a lot of trouble in school last year, but with a new school year and new teachers, he’s starting out with a clean slate.
To turn over a new leaf – To dramatically change your behavior for the better
Example: Jack’s going to turn over a new leaf. This year, he’s going to finally quit drinking.
To quit (something) cold turkey – To suddenly stop doing something without gradually decreasing
Example: Bruce used to smoke a pack of cigarettes a day, but this week, he quit cold turkey.
To make a habit – To do something so often that it becomes a routine
Example: I made the habit of calling my mom every Sunday.
To break a habit – To stop doing something that you used to do routinely
Example: Eating fast food is a really hard habit to break.
To go on a diet – To try to lose weight by eating less food or only certain types of foods
Example: I gained a lot of weight over the holidays, so I’m going on a diet as soon as the new year begins. No more junk food for me!
To cut down/back on something - To do less or use less of something
Example: Patty says she could never give up chocolate, but she’s going to cut back on it this year.
To be on a kick – To be really focused on one idea
Example: Sandra has been on a health kick lately. She only eats salads and drinks water.
To get in shape – To become physically fit
Example: In 2015, I’m finally going to get in shape. I bought a gym membership.
To go back to square one – To start over from the beginning because your previous plan failed
Example: I had lots of goals I wanted to accomplish in 2014, but they didn’t work out, so it’s back to square one this year!
Learn a new language with Livemocha!
Livemocha offers 35 languages, free online learning, and connects you to native speakers who are here to help you! Log in or sign up today!
Start Learning Today!