What Does “The Best Thing Since Sliced Bread” Mean?

When you’re studying for the IELTS, understanding idiomatic expressions is crucial. One such expression that you might come across is “the best thing since sliced bread.” This phrase is interesting due to its widespread use in everyday English and its potential relevance in various parts of the IELTS exam, such as the Speaking and Writing sections.

Breaking Down the Idiom: “The Best Thing Since Sliced Bread”

Meaning and Pronunciation

“The best thing since sliced bread” is an idiomatic expression used to describe something that is considered to be excellent or extremely good. It highlights how a new innovation or idea is so exceptional that it surpasses the convenience brought by pre-sliced bread, which itself was a groundbreaking invention in the early 20th century.

Pronunciation:

• The /ðə/
• Best /bɛst/
• Thing /θɪŋk/
• Since /sɪns/
• Sliced /slaɪst/
• Bread /brɛd/

Synonyms and Antonyms

Here are some related words and phrases to expand your vocabulary, complete with pronunciation, part of speech, definitions, and example sentences.

1. Phenomenal /fəˈnɒmɪnəl/ (adjective)

   • Definition: Very remarkable or extraordinary.
   • Example: The new smartphone has phenomenal features.

2. Revolutionary /ˌrɛvəˈluːʃənəri/ (adjective)

   • Definition: Involving or causing a complete or dramatic change.
   • Example: The revolutionary technology has changed our lives.

3. Incredible /ɪnˈkrɛdəbl/ (adjective)

   • Definition: Difficult to believe; extraordinary.
   • Example: The singer gave an incredible performance.

4. Mediocre /ˌmiːdiˈəʊkər/ (adjective)

   • Definition: Of only average quality; not very good (antonym).
   • Example: The service at the restaurant was mediocre.

5. Outdated /aʊtˈdeɪtɪd/ (adjective)

   • Definition: No longer in use or modern; obsolete (antonym).
   • Example: The software on this computer is outdated.

The Best Thing Since Sliced Bread

Usage and Relevance in IELTS

Speaking Section

In the speaking section of IELTS, idiomatic expressions can make your language sound more natural and fluent. Here are some examples of how you could incorporate “the best thing since sliced bread” into your responses:

1. Part 1:

   • Question: Do you enjoy cooking?
   • Answer: Yes, I do. I recently bought a kitchen gadget that’s really the best thing since sliced bread. It makes preparing meals incredibly easy.

2. Part 2:

   • Describe a piece of technology you find useful.
   • Answer: The smartphone is certainly the best thing since sliced bread because it combines so many useful functions into one device.

3. Part 3:

   • Question: How do innovations affect our lives?
   • Answer: Innovations bring about significant improvements in our daily routines. For example, the washing machine was the best thing since sliced bread for many households.

Writing Section

In the writing section, idioms can be particularly effective in Task 2 when you are required to present a well-structured argument. Below is an example of how you could use the idiom:

• Essay Question: Discuss the impact of technology on education.
• Sample Sentences:
  • “Online learning platforms are the best thing since sliced bread for students and educators alike. They offer unprecedented access to information and flexible learning schedules.”
  • “While some might argue that traditional classrooms are irreplaceable, the benefits of digital education are undeniable and truly the best thing since sliced bread.”

Collocations and Usage in Sentences

Understanding how to use “the best thing since sliced bread” with other words can enhance your writing and speaking skills. Here are a few collocations with examples:

1. Considered the best thing since sliced bread

   • The new project management software is considered the best thing since sliced bread in many companies.

2. Hailed as the best thing since sliced bread

   • The electric car is often hailed as the best thing since sliced bread by environmentalists.

3. Seen as the best thing since sliced bread

   • Many people see the introduction of high-speed internet as the best thing since sliced bread.

Related Idioms and Expressions

To further enhance your idiomatic usage, consider these related expressions:

1. A game-changer

   • This new app is a game-changer in the fitness industry.

2. A breakthrough

   • The discovery of this medicine is a breakthrough for modern science.

3. State-of-the-art

   • The laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art technology.

4. Cutting-edge

   • The company is known for its cutting-edge research.

5. Next big thing

   • Artificial Intelligence is considered the next big thing in tech industries.

6. Top-notch

   • The hotel provided top-notch service during our stay.

7. World-class

   • The athlete has consistently delivered world-class performances.

8. Unmatched

   • The quality of this product is simply unmatched.

9. Second to none

   • The restaurant’s cuisine is second to none in the city.

10. Exceptional

    • She has done exceptional work in the field of education.

Conclusion

Understanding and using idiomatic expressions like “the best thing since sliced bread” can greatly enhance your performance in the IELTS exam. Idioms not only enrich your language but also help you sound more fluent and natural. Keep practicing, use these phrases in your daily conversation, and you will see a remarkable improvement in your English proficiency.

Practice Questions and Topics

1. Speaking Part 1: What is the best invention of the 20th century?
2. Writing Task 2: How has technology improved our lives?
3. Speaking Part 3: Do you think new innovations are always beneficial?

By consistently integrating idiomatic expressions such as “the best thing since sliced bread” into your practice, you’ll be well-prepared to impress the examiners and achieve a higher score in your IELTS test.