English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
A whole new ball game
Meaning
The idiom "a whole new ball game" means a significant change or shift in a situation, often resulting in something entirely different from what was previously experienced. It can imply that the new situation is more challenging or complex than the previous one.
Usage
- Starting a new job is a whole new ball game for me, and I'm excited to see where it takes me.
- The pandemic has changed the way we live and work, making everything feel like a whole new ball game.
- When my friend started dating seriously, it was a whole new ball game for their relationship.
- The company's acquisition of a new competitor has made the market a whole new ball game for everyone involved.
- I never expected to win the lottery, but now that I have, it's like I'm in an entirely different ball game.
Roots and History
The idiom "a whole new ball game" first appeared in English literature in the mid-19th century. The earliest known use of the phrase is in the novel "Peter Hatterley" by Charlotte Bronte, published in 1847. In the book, a character says, "It's like going into another world." This idea of moving from one world or situation to another is central to the meaning of the idiom today. Over time, the phrase has evolved to include more complex and challenging situations, such as those described in the usage examples above. It has become a common expression used to describe significant changes or shifts in any aspect of life, from starting a new job to experiencing a global pandemic.
Synonyms in English
- A whole new league
- A whole new level
- A whole new realm
- A whole new chapter
- A whole new era
Synonyms in other languages
- 新しい世界 (Japanese) - This phrase means "a new world" and is used to describe a significant change or shift in one's environment or circumstances.
- ج��극적인 변화 (Korean) - This phrase means "dramatic change" and is often used to describe sudden shifts in the political, social, or economic landscape.
- משראת החיים (Hebrew) - This phrase means "entrance to life" and is used to describe a significant milestone or transition in one's personal journey.
- تصفير حظة (Arabic) - This phrase means "a change of fate" and is often used to describe unexpected changes in one's life or circumstances.
- أنامد الشعوب (Moroccan Arabic) - This phrase means "people are reborn" and is used to describe the idea of a new era or social movement, often associated with political or cultural change.