The idiom "a new one" is used to express surprise at something unfamiliar or unexpected in an ironic or amusing way. When someone encounters a situation, story, or excuse they've never heard before, they might exclaim, "That's a new one!"

In short:

"A new one" is used to express surprise or disbelief at something unusual or unheard of.

What Does "A New One" Mean?

The idiom "a new one" refers to something that is considered novel, unusual, or unheard of. It's often used in a sarcastic or ironic manner, highlighting the speaker's disbelief or surprise.

This expression can be applied to various contexts, such as:

• Unusual or creative excuses
• Unexpected situations or stories
• Unconventional ideas or solutions

While it generally has a negative connotation, it can also be used in a more neutral or positive sense, depending on the situation and tone of the speaker.

Where Does "A New One" Come From?

The phrase "a new one" first appeared in the early 1900s. Initially, the usage of the phrase referred to a literal sense of hearing a surprising fact that one had not known before. As new technologies and social changes emerged rapidly, the phrase evolved into a sarcastic remark or an expression of wry surprise at things that still managed to seem improbable or unfamiliar.

Historical example

"I reckon that's a new one on me. Never heard of anybody bein ' scared of mountains..."

- Charles Alden Seltzer, West!, 1924

10 Examples of "A New One" in Sentences

Here are some examples of the idiom used in various contexts:

• That's a new one - the bearer of bad news bringing such good news!
• My friend tried to convince me that eating ice cream for breakfast is healthy. That's a new one for me!
• She claimed she was late because her neighbor's cat stole her wallet. A new one, indeed!
• I've heard of unusual hobbies, but collecting toenail clippings? That's a new one!
• She said she got a ticket for parking on her own driveway. Well, that's a new one!
• He suggested that the best way to cook pasta is in a coffee pot. That's a new one!
• The politician's excuse for not attending the debate was that his parrot got sick. That's a new one!
• She told me she couldn't go on a date because she had to wash her plants. Well, that's a new one!
• Her objections matched his complaints to a tee - a new one, to say the least!
• When he said he missed the meeting because he was abducted by aliens, I thought, "That's a new one!"

Examples of  "A New One" in Pop Culture

The idiom "a new one" is often used in movies, TV shows, and books to emphasize the unusual or unexpected nature of a situation or story.

Some notable examples are:

• "Oxford United? Oh, that's a new one Eddie." —Richie, Bottom Live: The Big Number 2 Tour (1995 video)
• "Talking toilet paper... well, that's a new one." —Vlad, Hotel Transylvania 2 (2015)

Other Ways to Say "A New One"

These phrases can be used interchangeably, depending on the context and desired tone:

• That's a first!
• I had never heard that one before!
• Well, that's original!
• That's something new!
• Now I've seen everything!

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "A New One"

• What does the idiom "a new one" mean?

The idiom "a new one" is used to express surprise or disbelief at something unusual, novel, or unheard of. It is often used sarcastically or ironically.

• Where did the idiom "a new one" come from?

While the exact origin of the idiom "a new one" is uncertain, it likely emerged as an informal, colloquial expression in the English language and gained popularity through everyday conversations.

• Is it possible to use "a new one" in a positive context?

Yes, "a new one" can be used in a more neutral or positive sense, depending on the situation and tone of the speaker.

• How do I use "a new one" in a sentence?

To use "a new one" in a sentence, simply incorporate it as a response to an unusual, novel, or unheard-of situation, story, or excuse. For example: "That's a new one - your lame joke took the cake."

• Are there other ways to say "a new one"?

Yes, there are several alternative expressions that convey a similar meaning, such as "That's a first!" or "Never heard that one before!"

• Is "a new one" considered informal?

Yes, "a new one" is generally considered an informal expression, most commonly used in casual conversations.

• Is it possible to use it in a professional setting?

While "a new one" is an informal expression, it can still be used in professional settings, as long as the tone and context are appropriate.

• Do other languages have an equivalent expression for "a new one"?

Yes, many languages have equivalent expressions that convey a similar meaning to "a new one," often highlighting surprise or disbelief at something unusual or novel.

• Can one use the phrase sarcastically?

Yes, "a new one" is often used sarcastically or ironically to emphasize the speaker's disbelief or surprise at a situation or story.

• What makes "a new one" an idiom?

"A new one" is considered an idiom because its meaning cannot be deduced simply by understanding the individual words. Instead, the expression as a whole carries a specific meaning in the context it is used.

Final Thoughts About "A New One"

To sum things up, the idiom "a new one" means that something is surprising or unexpected in an amusing or ironic way. It suggests that it's something you haven't heard before. It likely originated as an informal, colloquial expression in the English language and has since become widely recognized and used in various contexts.

Key aspects of the idiom "a new one":

• Expresses surprise or disbelief at something unusual or unheard of
• Often used sarcastically or ironically
• Applicable to a variety of contexts, such as unusual excuses, unexpected situations, or unconventional ideas

The idiom is a valuable addition to your conversational toolbox, allowing you to express your surprise or amusement at novel situations, stories, or explanations. So, the next time you come across something unusual or unprecedented, remember to exclaim, "That's a new one!" and enjoy the lively conversations that follow.