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Describing Qualities - Old & New Things

Explore English idioms regarding old or new things with examples like "old hat" and "cutting edge".

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English Idioms used to Describe Qualities
old shoe
old shoe
[phrase]

something or someone that is familiar, comfortable, and easy to be around

Ex: Despite not seeing each other for years, when they met again, it was like slipping into an old shoe, comfortable and easy. 
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cutting edge

the forefront or leading position in a particular field or area of activity, characterized by the most advanced or innovative practices, technologies, or ideas

Ex: The company's research and development department is known for its cutting-edge technology, constantly introducing groundbreaking innovations. 
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all singing, all dancing

(of a piece of equipment) very advanced in design

Ex: The Broadway show was an all-singing, all-dancing extravaganza, featuring elaborate sets, stunning choreography, and a talented cast. 
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(last|final) word
last word
[phrase]

something that is considered the most fashionable or advanced in comparison with others of the same type

Ex: The new luxury car model is the last word in automotive engineering, incorporating the latest advancements in performance and safety. 
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the shape of things to come

a short glance of what one is likely to experience or what might happen in the future

Ex: The new technological breakthrough offers a glimpse into the shape of things to come, hinting at the possibilities of future advancements. 
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breath of fresh air

someone or something that presents a refreshing change compared to what existed before

Ex: The new manager's leadership style was a breath of fresh air, fostering open communication and a collaborative work environment. 
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to [fall] to pieces

to age gradually, leading to a state of poor or declining condition

Ex: The abandoned house had fallen to pieces, with crumbling walls and a sagging roof. 
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in mint condition

(of objects) in a perfect or unharmed condition

Ex: The vintage comic book was in mint condition, with no creases, tears, or signs of wear. 
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old hat
old hat
[phrase]

used to describe something that has been used many times or has existed for an extended period of time and is no longer new

Ex: Wearing a tuxedo to the office these days is old hat; casual attire is the new norm. 
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to [gather|collect] dust

to be ignored or left unused for a very long time

Ex: The old vinyl records in the attic have been gathering dust for decades, untouched and forgotten. 
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bricks and clicks

a business that has both real physical stores and also sells products or services online through a website or app

Ex: The successful retailer embraced a bricks and clicks strategy, offering customers the convenience of online shopping while maintaining a physical store presence. 
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hot off the press

(of a paper, particularly a newspaper) recently printed

Ex: The morning paper was hot off the press when it arrived at the café. 
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to [go|fall] out of (fashion|style)

to become outdated and no longer liked or supported

Ex: Bell-bottom pants fell out of fashion in the 1980s but have recently made a comeback. 
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