mint-condition

IPA/mˈɪntkəndˈɪʃən/
IPA/mˈɪntkəndˈɪʃən/

mint-condition — idiom

1. used for an object that still looks almost new, with no clear signs of wear, dam

1.idiomB2
Definition

used for an object that still looks almost new, with no clear signs of wear, damage, or missing parts

Example

The dealer said the Leica was still in mint condition after fifty years.

be in mint condition for a collectable camera

Nadia found her uncle's concert poster in mint condition inside a map drawer.

find an old item in mint condition after long storage

Common collocations
  • be in mint condition
  • remain in mint condition
  • keep something in mint condition
  • mint-condition copy
Synonyms
  • like-new

    common in resale listings; slightly more commercial in tone

  • pristine

    stronger and more formal; can suggest an untouched or flawless state

  • as good as new

    broader everyday wording and less tied to collector grading

Antonyms
  • worn

    shows ordinary use or ageing rather than near-new quality

  • battered

    suggests heavy damage or rough use, far from collector quality

Grammar Patterns

be in mint condition

remain in mint condition

keep something in mint condition

Usage Note

Most often appears after be, remain, keep, or stay when people talk about books, records, electronics, toys, or other collectable items. It is stronger than saying something still works, because it points to near-new physical condition.

Common Mistakes

The laptop is in mint condition because it still works.
The laptop is in mint condition because it looks almost unused.
mint condition is about near-new physical state, not only basic function.
The chair stayed mint condition after the move.
The chair stayed in mint condition after the move.
the fixed pattern normally uses in before the expression.

Etymology

English

The expression uses mint in the older sense of a place where coins are made. A coin that comes straight from the mint has not been handled or worn, so English extended mint condition to any object kept as good as new.