#85 Informing Someone of a Last-Minute Schedule Change｜English Business Phrases
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#83 Talking About New Year’s Resolutions｜Everyday English Expressions
Izumi
As the New Year begins, people often talk about what kind of year they would like to have and what goals they want to work on.
In English, New Year’s goals are commonly called “New Year’s resolutions,” and they are a typical topic of conversation at the start of the year.
In this article, I explain useful expressions for talking about New Year’s resolutions in natural English, as well as key points for keeping the conversation going.
Contents
Dialogue
Happy New Year! Do you have any resolutions for this year?
Happy New Year! Yes, I want to focus more on my health this year.
That sounds great. Are you planning to start exercising regularly?
Yes, I’m aiming to work out at least three times a week.
That’s a solid goal. I hope you can stick with it.
Thanks. What about you? What’s your goal for this year?
I’d like to improve my English skills and take on more challenging projects at work.
1. Asking About New Year’s Resolutions
When asking someone about their New Year’s goals, the expression “New Year’s resolution” is commonly used.
Example
- Do you have any resolutions for this year?
The word “resolution” means a firm decision or determination. A New Year’s resolution refers to a goal or commitment made at the beginning of the year.
Using “any” adds a softer nuance, meaning “even just one if you have one,” which makes the question feel less pressuring.
Because “resolution” can sound slightly formal, the word “goal” is also frequently used with the same meaning.
Related Expression
- Do you have any goals for this year?
2. Talking About Your Own Resolution
When sharing your own New Year’s resolution, it is effective to clearly state what you want to focus on.
Example
- I want to focus more on my health.
The phrase “focus on ～” means to put effort or attention into a specific area, making it useful when explaining your priorities for the new year.
If you want to express your goal in a more modest or polite way, you can use “I’d like to ～” instead of “I want to ～.”
Example
- I’d like to improve my English skills.
3. Making Your Resolution More Specific
New Year’s resolutions sound more realistic when you add details about specific actions or frequency.
Example
- I’m aiming to work out at least three times a week.
The expression “aim to ～” is used to describe a target or goal you are working toward. It conveys intention and effort rather than certainty.
Related Expressions
- I’m aiming to read more books this year.
- I’m aiming to save more money.
- I’m aiming to manage my time better.
4. Responding Positively to Someone’s Resolution
After hearing someone’s New Year’s resolution, responding with encouragement or empathy helps keep the conversation engaging.
Example
- That’s a solid goal.
- I hope you can stick with it.
The phrase “stick with it” means to continue without giving up.
These expressions are useful for showing support and encouragement when someone shares their goals.
Summary
Key English Phrases
- Do you have any resolutions for this year?
→ A common way to ask about New Year’s resolutions. - I want to focus on ～ / I’d like to ～
→ Expressions for talking about what you want to work on in the new year. - I’m aiming to ～
→ A useful phrase for making your resolution more specific and realistic. - That sounds great. / I hope you can stick with it.
→ Positive reactions that help encourage the other person and continue the conversation.
