The start of a new year is a great chance to teach English students idioms that reflect fresh beginnings and positive change.

Below, you’ll find 12 ESL-friendly New Year idioms, each with a clear definition and a simple example. They work well for conversation practice, journal prompts, or  goal-setting lessons.

1) New year, new beginnings

Meaning: A phrase used to express the intention to change habits or improve oneself in the New Year.

Example: This year, I’m waking up early and exercising. New year, new beginnings!

2) Turn over a new leaf

Meaning: To make a fresh start or change one’s behaviour for the better.

Example: After the holidays, she decided to turn over a new leaf and study more seriously.

3) Start on the right foot

Meaning: To begin something in a positive or successful way.

Example: I want to start the year on the right foot by writing out my goals.

4) Make a clean break

Meaning: To completely stop an old habit or leave a past situation behind.

Example: At the start of the year, he made a clean break from fast food.

5) Set your sights on something

Meaning: To decide to work toward a specific goal.

Example: This year, she has set her sights on improving her English pronunciation.

6) Hit the ground running

Meaning: To start something with energy and enthusiasm.

Example: She hit the ground running this new year by launching her book in January.

7) Out with the old, in with the new

Meaning: A phrase used to describe replacing old habits, ideas, or things with new ones.

Example: I finally decluttered my room! Out with the old, in with the new.

8) Make a fresh start

Meaning: To begin again without being influenced by past mistakes.

Example: The New Year gives everyone a chance to make a fresh start.

9) Back to the drawing board

Meaning: To start planning again because a previous plan didn’t work.

Example: My goals were too difficult last year, so I’m going back to the drawing board.

10) Stick to your guns

Meaning: To continue with a decision or plan even when it is difficult.

Example: Even when motivation drops, try to stick to your guns and keep practicing English.

11) Ring in the New Year

Meaning: To celebrate the beginning of the New Year.

Example: They rang in the New Year with fireworks and music.

12) A step in the right direction

Meaning: An action that helps move toward a goal, even if progress is slow.

Example: Studying English for 10 minutes a day is a step in the right direction.i

What other idioms do you know about the New Year and fresh beginnings? Share them in the comments below!