best thing since sliced pan: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘best thing since sliced pan’ mean?
The idiom "best thing since sliced bread" is used to describe something that is considered to be a great, innovative, or significant improvement or development, similar to the invention of sliced bread.
Idiom Explorer
An idiom meaning an individual or thing that is the most impressive or influential among others in a given field or situation.
The idiom "if nothing else" is used to emphasize the sole positive quality or result when everything else may not be satisfactory.
The idiom "icing on the cake" refers to something that is an additional bonus or enhancement to an already good situation or outcome.
The idiom "hot stuff" is used to describe someone or something that is outstanding, remarkable, or highly skilled.
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.
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.
Culinary Sensation
The idiom "best thing since sliced bread" is a common expression in English used to convey admiration or praise for something or someone. Its exact origin is unclear, but there are certain facts that can shed light on its meaning and usage.
This idiom emerged in the mid-20th century in the United States, possibly as an evolution of the earlier expression "the greatest thing since indoor plumbing." The similarity between the two suggests a connection.
The idiom gained recognition through a marketing campaign by the Chillicothe Baking Company in the 1920s. The company invented and patented the first commercially successful bread-slicing machine, revolutionizing the way bread was consumed. Pre-sliced bread became widely available, making it convenient for consumers and earning it a reputation as a remarkable innovation. "The best thing since sliced bread" likely arose as a way to describe a groundbreaking invention or idea.
It is important to note that the idiom does not imply that sliced bread is the benchmark for greatness. Instead, it serves as a metaphor to highlight the exceptional qualities or significance of something. It can refer to various aspects of life, such as technology, products, or even people.
The popularity of the phrase "sliced bread" may be due to its catchiness and relatability. Sliced bread symbolizes an everyday item that has become integral to our lives, and its absence would be sorely missed.
This idiom has firmly entrenched itself in the English language, finding its way into everyday conversations and various forms of media. It reflects our continuous quest to express our thoughts and experiences in succinct and relatable ways.
Exploring this idiom reveals an intersection of language, culture, and human ingenuity. It shows the power of words to convey meaning and shape our perceptions. Despite its elusive origin, the idiom's usage permeates our contemporary discourse, reminding us of the everyday innovations that have become staples in our lives. It captures the essence of praise and admiration and invites us to reflect on the wonders that surround us.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "best thing since sliced pan" can be used in a sentence:
1. The new smartphone is the best thing since sliced pan - it has amazing features and is incredibly fast.
2. I've tried many diet plans, but this one is the best thing since sliced pan - it's easy to follow and I'm seeing great results.
3. This new app is the best thing since sliced pan - it's revolutionizing the way we communicate and making everything so much easier.
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