change of scenery: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Informal, neutral; common in everyday and business contexts.
Quick answer
What does “change of scenery” mean?
A literal change in one's physical surroundings or environment.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A literal change in one's physical surroundings or environment.
A figurative shift in one's life, routine, or circumstances, often sought to relieve boredom, gain perspective, or start anew.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Slightly more common in American English as a set phrase.
Connotations
Universally positive or neutral, suggesting refreshment or a needed break.
Frequency
Common in both varieties; high frequency in lifestyle, travel, and career advice contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “change of scenery” in a Sentence
[Subject] needs a change of scenery.[Subject] went to [place] for a change of scenery.It was [adjective] to get a change of scenery.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “change of scenery” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- Not applicable as a verb.
American English
- Not applicable as a verb.
adverb
British English
- Not applicable as an adverb.
American English
- Not applicable as an adverb.
adjective
British English
- Not applicable as an adjective.
American English
- Not applicable as an adjective.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used to explain a job transfer, relocation, or a team's need for new inspiration.
Academic
Rare. May appear in human geography or psychology discussing environmental impact on wellbeing.
Everyday
Common to explain a holiday, moving house, or simply going out for the day.
Technical
Not applicable.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “change of scenery”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “change of scenery”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “change of scenery”
- Using 'sceneries' (uncountable noun; no plural).
- Using it to mean only a major life change; it can be minor.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Mostly yes, but it can be neutral, simply describing a physical relocation without emotional judgement.
Yes, it can be used informally for small shifts, like working from a café instead of the office.
They are virtually identical in meaning. 'Change of scenery' is slightly more common in modern usage.
It is neutral but leans informal. In very formal writing, alternatives like 'change of environment' or 'relocation' might be preferred.
A literal change in one's physical surroundings or environment.
Change of scenery: in British English it is pronounced /ˈtʃeɪndʒ əv ˈsiːn(ə)ri/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈtʃeɪndʒ əv ˈsiːnəri/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A change is as good as a rest.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a theatre play: when the ACTORS need a new backdrop, they get a CHANGE OF SCENERY.
Conceptual Metaphor
LIFE IS A JOURNEY / A STAGE PLAY. Changing location is like changing the set or the landscape on your journey.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'change of scenery' LEAST appropriate?