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Synonyms

turn over a new leaf

Cultural

To begin anew; to change one's ways: “Since he was grounded, Larry has turned over a new leaf and does his homework every night.”

turn over a new leaf Idioms

Make a fresh start, change one's conduct or attitude for the better, as in He promised the teacher he would turn over a new leaf and behave himself in class. This expression alludes to turning the page of a book to a new page. [Early 1500s]

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turn over a new leaf

“I think that they see there’s a real opportunity here to turn over a new leaf so long as they do the right thing,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 12, 2026

All of this gave me an idea: Why not turn over a new leaf and make a big mug of spiced chai?

From Seattle Times ● Jan. 14, 2023

Accordingly, in Hong Kong, the Correctional Services Department touts special family programs that are aimed to help PICs “form stronger determination to turn over a new leaf through family support.”

From Washington Post ● Jul. 20, 2022

Jean-Pierre will take over the role of press secretary immediately following Psaki's departure on May 13 to turn over a new leaf at MSNBC.

From Salon ● May 6, 2022

“Don’t talk that way, turn over a new leaf and begin again, Teddy, my son.”

From "Little Women" by Louisa May Alcott

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

turn over a new leaf

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