T-learning # Idiom
Speak Like a Native

to ring in the New Year

Choose the correct definition a, b or c.

a) to get drunk at New Year’s Eve

Well, it’s likely to happen tonight, but nope, wrong answer. Please try again.

b) to party at New Year’s Eve

Well done ! That’s the right answer.

to ring in the New Year’ means to mark the end of the previous year and usher in the start of a new one, typically with a party or other celebration.

French translation

célébrer la nouvelle année, faire la fête pour le réveillon ou la Saint Sylvestre

How NOT to translate : *sonner l’entrée de la nouvelle année
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Examples in context

‘Big Ben set to ring in the New Year for the first time since start of restoration work

ritain’s Big Ben bell in Parliament’s landmark clock tower will ring at midnight on New Year’s Eve, marking the start of a year for the first time since its new face was revealed from under scaffolding halfway through restoration work.

The work has seen the 96-metre-tall Elizabeth Tower, one of the most photographed buildings in Britain, enveloped in scaffolding for the last two years as the four clock dials are reglazed, ironwork repainted and intricately carved stonework cleaned and repaired.

In March, part of the scaffolding was removed, showing that the clock’s once black numerals and hands have been repainted blue, in line with what scientists say was its original colour.

Since restoration work began in 2017, Big Ben has been largely silenced, sounding only for important events.

It last tolled on Remembrance Day on Nov. 11.

The bell will be tested several times in the run-up to New Year’s Eve, parliament said in a statement.

The £61 million restoration work is due to be completed in 2021.’

The Telegraph, 29 Dec. 2019

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Everyday usage

Gathered with family or friends, we stay up until midnight to ring in the New Year.

People thronged the streets just before midnight to ring in the new year.

No matter when you celebrate the New Year, it usually involves thinking about the past year and planning for the year ahead. People have many different ways of ringing out the old and ringing in the new.

c) to make resolutions for the new year

Sorry, wrong answer. Please try again.


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