reset the dial: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘reset the dial’ mean?
The idiom "reset the dial" means to start from the beginning or to go back to the initial position or state.
Idiom Explorer
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Idiom: put the clock back
Meaning: To revert to a previous state, usually with negative connotations, typically referring to the inability to change or reverse past actions or circumstances. It emphasizes the impossibility of returning to the way things were before.
The idiom "put back" means to return something to its original place or position. It can also mean to delay or reschedule an event or activity.
The idiom "put back" has several meanings and uses in American English.
Cracking the Code
The idiom "reset the dial" originated in the early 20th century and is still commonly used today. It is a phrase that is typically used in informal speech and writing. While there is no specific evidence of its first usage, the phrase can be traced back to its literal meaning - resetting a dial on a device or instrument to its starting position.
When used figuratively, "reset the dial" conveys the idea of starting over, going back to the beginning, or returning to a previous state or point in time. It is often used in the context of seeking a fresh start or a clean slate. This idiom implies the desire to undo or reverse previous actions, decisions, or circumstances and start again with a renewed focus.
The phrase "reset the dial" is commonly used in personal relationships, career paths, politics, and societal issues. In personal relationships, it may be used to express the desire to start over and rebuild trust or repair a damaged bond. It is like going "back to square one" in the relationship, starting from the very beginning and working towards a better future.
Similarly, in the professional sphere, "resetting the dial" can mean starting a project from scratch or making a fresh start in one's career. It is like going "back to the drawing board" and reevaluating one's approach to achieve better results. Sometimes, setbacks occur and it becomes necessary to dial back and reassess the situation in order to move forward.
Politicians and governing bodies also use the idiom to describe a shift in policy or ideology. They may aim to change direction and revert to a previous state or set of principles. This can be seen as a way to "put the clock back" and return to a time of perceived success or stability. It implies a desire to abandon newer ideas or strategies that have proven to be less effective.
In discussions surrounding societal issues, the phrase "reset the dial" is often used to address injustices or imbalances that may have arisen over time. It suggests the need to reevaluate established norms and practices in order to create a more equitable society. It is a call to action to "put back" what has been lost or neglected and work towards a fairer future.
Despite its widespread usage, "reset the dial" remains an idiomatic expression that conveys a sense of starting fresh or reverting to a prior state. It resonates with individuals who seek to undo past mistakes or circumstances and embark on a new journey. The idiom carries the weight of hopefulness, as it implies the possibility of beginning again and shaping a different future. However, it also acknowledges the limitations of this desire for a reset, as it does not guarantee a change in outcome, but rather a renewed opportunity.
Example usage
Here are three examples of how the idiom "reset the dial" can be used in a sentence:
- After a bad day at work, she decided to reset the dial by going for a long walk in the park.
- The team needed to reset the dial on their marketing strategy after their latest campaign failed to generate any leads.
- After a disagreement, the couple decided to reset the dial on their relationship and start fresh.
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