Ever heard the expression 'like new'? Do you know what it means? Don't worry if you don't; in this article, we'll explore the meaning of this common saying and how to use it in a sentence.
If you're just here to find out what it means, here's the short version:
The expression 'like new' is commonly used to describe an item in excellent condition, resembling its original state when it was new or nearly new. When someone says something is 'like new,' they indicate that it shows very little, if any, signs of wear, damage, or use.
This term is often used when selling or describing used items, such as electronics, clothing, or furniture. Some other expressions commonly used in this context include 'brand new,' 'used,' and 'acceptable.'
Here's an example:
She found a vintage dress at the thrift store that looked like new, despite its age.
You can also use this phrase to refer to a person. If someone feels like new, it means they feel good, either mentally or spiritually or both. It's like they have a new lease of life.
Here's an example:
Following a relaxing vacation, he returned to work rejuvenated and feeling like new.
In this context, you can also say 'feeling like a new man/woman/person.'
This expression is unlike most idioms because its meaning is literal and pretty easy to understand. It's a straightforward comparison to something new.
The phrase 'like new' probably doesn't have an exciting history like some idioms do because it's a straightforward and descriptive term that likely emerged organically over time in English. It stems from combining the word 'like,' meaning 'having the same characteristics or qualities,' and 'new,' indicating a condition resembling a new item.
While the exact origin is not easily traceable, similar expressions have likely been used in various forms throughout the history of language to convey the idea of something being in a condition similar to when it was new.
Now that we've covered the meaning of this idiom and its origins, here are some example sentences that use it.
The pre-owned bicycle was so well-maintained that it rode like new despite being a few years old.
After a good night's sleep, she woke up feeling like new and ready for the day ahead.
The furniture, though second-hand, was professionally restored and now looks like new in our living room.
After a long weekend of rest and self-care, she emerged on Monday morning feeling like new, ready to tackle the week ahead.
The antique watch, carefully restored by a skilled watchmaker, now functions and shines like new.
Recovering from the flu, he finally felt like new and could resume his regular activities.
We decided to buy the certified pre-owned camera because it was guaranteed to be like new in terms of performance and appearance.
After a refreshing spa day, she left the spa feeling like new both mentally and physically.
Despite being a used book, its pages are crisp, and the cover looks like new.
Despite a challenging week, the weekend provided much-needed rest, and he felt like new by Sunday evening.
There are many other ways to say something, or someone is in excellent condition. They're great to use if you're looking for alternative phrases.
Here are some of them as they refer to items:
And here are alternatives you can use for people:
That concludes this article about this famous expression. To summarize, when something or someone is 'like new,' it means they are in fantastic condition or shape.
Are you ready to learn more English phrases and expand your vocabulary? Check out our idioms blog for other idioms, expressions, sayings, and more!
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