Translation guide
The English idiom 'turn over a new leaf' means to start behaving in a better way, to reform, or to make a fresh start. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent, but several expressions capture the idea of changing one's ways, starting anew, or making a fresh start.
Expressing a personal decision to change bad habits or behavior for the better.
Literally 'to replace one's heart/mind'. This is the closest natural Japanese equivalent to 'turn over a new leaf' in the sense of reforming one's character or behavior. It implies a conscious decision to change for the better.
He turned over a new leaf and started working seriously.
It's a good opportunity to turn over a new leaf.
Means 'to reform oneself' or 'to repent and change one's ways'. Often used in contexts of moral or criminal reform. Slightly more formal than 心を入れ替える.
He turned over a new leaf and vowed never to do bad things again.
Literally 'to wash one's feet'. An idiom meaning to quit a bad habit or shady business, especially criminal activities or vice. It implies leaving behind a disreputable lifestyle.
He turned over a new leaf and left the yakuza world.
Emphasizing the aspect of starting over, often after a setback or at a new phase in life.
Means 'to make a fresh start' or 'to start over'. It focuses on beginning again, often after a failure or a break. Suitable for both personal and professional contexts.
I decided to turn over a new leaf in a new town.
Literally 'to start over from scratch'. Implies going back to the beginning and rebuilding. Often used when previous efforts have failed.
Focusing on a shift in mindset or perspective, often leading to improved behavior.
Both mean to reform oneself, but 心を入れ替える is more everyday and can be used for personal habits, while 改心する often implies a moral or religious conversion and is more formal. 心を入れ替える is the safer choice for general 'turn over a new leaf'.
I turned over a new leaf and started waking up early.
He reformed and started attending church.
Do not translate 'turn over a new leaf' literally as 新しい葉をめくる. This makes no sense in Japanese. Use the idiomatic expressions provided above.
After the accident, he turned over a new leaf and started driving safely.
She decided to turn over a new leaf and quit smoking.
I admit my failure and am ready to turn over a new leaf from scratch.
A four-character compound meaning 'turning over a new leaf' or 'a complete change of heart'. Often used to describe a fresh start in a new environment or with a new mindset.
With the job change, I want to turn over a new leaf and do my best.
Literally 'to be reborn'. A strong expression for a complete personal transformation, as if becoming a new person. Can be used dramatically or metaphorically.
He turned over a new leaf and became kind, as if reborn.