put a new/different complexion on something

put a new complexion on (something)

To alter the appearance, perception, or interpretation of something; to recontextualize something so as to suggest a new or different interpretation. The information given to us by the former secretary certainly puts a new complexion on the incident. I recommend that we drop the charges for now. The leaked email chain detailing his protests against the company's policy puts a new complexion on his sudden firing last week.

See also: complexion, new, on, put

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

put a new/different comˈplexion on something

change the way that a situation appears: What the police officer had just told me put quite a different complexion on the mystery.

See also: complexion, different, new, on, put, something

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017