New sheriff in town: Learn what the means through example!

What does “New sheriff in town” mean?

"New sheriff in town" means there is a new person in charge or in control.

What context can I use the in?

Example

Watch out, there's a new sheriff in town and things are going to change.

Example

The new sheriff in town wasted no time implementing new policies.

Example

Everyone is curious to see how the new sheriff in town will handle things

Is “New sheriff in town” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“New sheriff in town” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “New sheriff in town” effectively in context?

You can use "New sheriff in town" to refer to a new person who is in charge or in control of a situation. It implies a change in leadership and often carries the connotation of someone who is assertive and ready to make changes. For example, if a new manager joins a company and starts implementing new policies, you might say, 'Watch out, there's a new sheriff in town and things are going to change.'

• 1. Work

  The new sheriff in town wasted no time implementing new policies.

• 2. Community

  Everyone is curious to see how the new sheriff in town will handle things.

• 3. Sports

  With the arrival of the new coach, the team is expecting some major changes.

Similar phrases to “New sheriff in town”:

Call the shots

To be in control or have the authority to make decisions

Example

As the new CEO, she now gets to call the shots.

Wear the pants

To be in control or have the dominant role in a relationship or situation

Example

She wears the pants in their relationship and makes all the decisions.

Take the reins

To assume control or take charge of a situation

Example

He took the reins of the project and guided it to success.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “New sheriff in town” come from?

The origin of the phrase "New sheriff in town" is unknown.

Is “New sheriff in town” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "New sheriff in town" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe a situation where there is a change in leadership or authority.

What tone does “New sheriff in town” have?

"New sheriff in town" conveys a tone of power and authority. It suggests that the person being referred to is in control and ready to make their presence known.

Can “New sheriff in town” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "new sheriff in town" is more commonly used in informal settings. It is often used in casual conversations among friends, colleagues, or in situations where there is a change in leadership.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'Watch out, there's a new sheriff in town and things are going to change.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'There's a "new sheriff in town"!' to imply the arrival of someone new in a position of authority.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• in charge
• running the show
• taking control
• calling the shots
• taking the lead

Antonyms

• losing control
• stepping down
• handing over power
• giving up authority