best thing since sliced bread: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘best thing since sliced bread’ mean?
The idiom "best thing since sliced bread" means that something is considered to be extremely good or innovative, often in comparison to previous ideas or inventions. It highlights the belief that sliced bread revolutionized convenience and simplicity in daily life.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "if nothing else" is used to emphasize the sole positive quality or result when everything else may not be satisfactory.
The idiom "have the biscuit" means to achieve the highest level of excellence or to be the best at something. It is often used to describe someone who surpasses the expectations of others or outshines their competition.
The idiom "ground-breaking" refers to something innovative or revolutionary that completely transforms a particular field or industry.
The idiom "greatest thing since sliced bread" is used to describe something that is considered a significant improvement or innovation.
The idiom "good value" refers to something that is worth the money spent on it, providing a high quality or benefit relative to its cost.
The idiom "good enough to eat" means something is extremely delicious or attractive, to the point where one might want to consume or devour it.
An idiom that signifies something or someone considered to be a great blessing or stroke of luck, often seen as a divine or fortunate occurrence.
The idiom "cutting edge" refers to being at the forefront of innovation or advancement in a particular field or industry.
The idiom "cut the mustard" means to meet expectations or perform satisfactorily.
The idiom "cut above" means to be of superior quality or ability compared to others in the same category or group.
Savoring Culinary Marvels
The idiom "best thing since sliced bread" is a commonly used expression in the English language. It is used to describe something that is extremely good or innovative.
This idiom originated in the early 20th century, inspired by the invention and convenience of sliced bread. Sliced bread became widely available to the public in the 1920s, following the invention of a bread slicing machine by Otto Frederick Rohwedder in 1912. This technological advancement revolutionized the way bread was consumed and greatly increased its convenience.
Initially, the idiom "the greatest thing since sliced bread" was used to emphasize the novelty and convenience of sliced bread. Over time, the "greatest" adjective was dropped, and the idiom transformed into "the best thing since sliced bread."
Another related idiom is "best of the bunch." This phrase is used to describe something or someone that is the best in a group or category. For example, if there are several options for a job or an award, the person or thing that is considered the best of the bunch stands out as the top choice.
Similarly, the idiom "best thing since sliced pan" is used in Irish English to convey the same meaning as "best thing since sliced bread." The phrase "sliced pan" refers to a loaf of sliced bread in Ireland, so saying something is the best thing since sliced pan means it is highly innovative or exceptional.
The idiom "best thing since sliced bread" is often used to highlight the superiority or value of something. It can be used to praise a new invention, a helpful tool, a delicious food item, or any other object or concept that is considered exceptionally good.
One reason for the continued popularity of this idiom is its simplicity and relatability. "Best thing since sliced bread" captures the idea of progress and improvement in a straightforward and easily understandable manner. It has become a go-to phrase for expressing enthusiasm and admiration for something.
The enduring nature of this idiom can also be attributed to its versatility. It can be applied to a wide range of subjects, allowing individuals to use it in various contexts. This flexibility has contributed to its longevity and relevance in the English language.
The idiom "best thing since sliced bread" originated in the early 20th century, inspired by the invention and convenience of sliced bread. It has since become a popular expression used to highlight the exceptional quality or innovative nature of an object or concept. Its simplicity, relatability, and versatility have ensured its continued use and understanding in contemporary American English.
So the next time you come across something truly remarkable, don’t be afraid to say it’s the best thing since sliced bread. And while you're at it, feel free to mention that it's the best of the bunch or the best thing since sliced pan. These related idioms all convey the same message of exceptional quality or innovation in a friendly and conversational manner.
Example usage
The idiom "best thing since sliced bread" can be used in various contexts to express a high level of admiration or praise for something or someone. Here are three examples:
- I love this new smartphone! It has so many features and it's the best thing since sliced bread.
- My grandmother's homemade apple pie is simply amazing. I swear, it's the best thing since sliced bread!
- Have you tried the new virtual reality game? It's mind-blowing and definitely the best thing since sliced bread.
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