Expressions With Turn
The word “turn” is remarkably versatile in the English language. It does not merely refer to the act of changing direction; it forms the crux of a myriad of expressions that capture the dynamism of life’s many shifts and transformations. The employment of “turn” in idiomatic language allows speakers to effectively express changes in situations, fortune, and behavior. This article will explore the manifold expressions that hinge upon this pivotal word, offering examples to decode their meanings and uses.
Table of Contents
“Turn over a new leaf”
To “turn over a new leaf” means to start anew, to change one’s behavior or attitude for the better.
Example: “After his health scare, he decided to turn over a new leaf and begin exercising regularly.”
“Turn the tables”
“Turn the tables” implies reversing one’s position relative to someone else, especially by turning a disadvantage into an advantage.
Example: “The underdog team turned the tables in the second half with an unexpected comeback.”
“Turn a blind eye”
To “turn a blind eye” is to intentionally ignore something, especially wrongdoing or an undesirable fact.
Example: “The manager turned a blind eye to the employees’ misconduct, which only made the situation worse.”
“Turn up one’s nose”
“Turn up one’s nose” suggests showing disdain or contempt towards something viewed as unworthy or inferior.
Example: “She turned up her nose at the bargain clothes, preferring designer labels instead.”
“Turn the corner”
To “turn the corner” means to pass a critical point in a process and start to improve after a difficult period.
Example: “The company has finally turned the corner and is beginning to make a profit.”
“Turn heads”
To “turn heads” is to attract a lot of attention or interest, often because of one’s good looks or stylish appearance.
Example: “Her stunning dress turned heads as she walked into the room.”
“Turn a profit”
“Turn a profit” means to make money, indicating that a business or investment is yielding financial gain.
Example: “After several years of losses, the new CEO’s strategy helped the company turn a profit.”
“Turn the screw”
“Turn the screw” refers to increasing pressure on someone to achieve a desired outcome.
Example: “To ensure the suspect confessed, the interrogator turned the screw with a series of probing questions.”
“Turn tail”
To “turn tail” involves running away from a dangerous or unpleasant situation.
Example: “When they saw the approaching storm, the hikers turned tail and headed back to safety.”
“Turn of events”
A “turn of events” denotes an unexpected change in a situation.
Example: “The sudden turn of events caught everyone off guard when the presumed winner lost the race.”
“Take a turn for the worse”
To “take a turn for the worse” means to suddenly become worse or more serious.
Example: “The patient took a turn for the worse overnight and required immediate surgery.”
“Turn the tide”
“Turn the tide” signifies causing a complete reversal in the course of events.
Example: “The introduction of new evidence turned the tide in the trial.”
“Turn on a dime”
To “turn on a dime” implies changing direction or position very quickly.
Example: “The agile athlete could turn on a dime, evading defenders with ease.”
“Turn up the heat”
“Turn up the heat” means to increase the level of pressure or intensity in a situation.
Example: “The competition is about to turn up the heat as the finals approach.”
“Turn a deaf ear”
To “turn a deaf ear” is to ignore someone’s requests or complaints deliberately.
Example: “The company turned a deaf ear to the concerns raised by the community.”
“Every turn of the way”
“Every turn of the way” indicates at every point or stage in a process.
Example: “She faced challenges at every turn of the way but persevered to achieve her goals.”
“Turn of phrase”
A “turn of phrase” is a way of expressing something, a particular way of wording.
Example: “His eloquent turn of phrase made even the most mundane topics seem intriguing.”
“It’s your turn”
“It’s your turn” is used to indicate that it is someone’s opportunity or responsibility to do something.
Example: “You’ve been waiting patiently – now it’s your turn to play the game.”
“Turn the page”
“Turn the page” metaphorically means to move on from a past event or period, starting a new chapter in life.
Example: “After the scandal, the politician wanted to turn the page and focus on the future.”
“Leave no stone unturned”
To “leave no stone unturned” is to do everything possible to find something or to solve a problem.
Example: “Thedetective left no stone unturned in his search for clues to solve the high-profile case.”
Final Thoughts
In the tapestry of English expressions, “turn” weaves a pattern rich with the sense of change, action, and progression. Its use across various contexts encapsulates the essence of transformation, whether it’s about beginning anew, reversing fortunes, or simply moving to the next stage. By turning a keen eye to the language we deploy, we can appreciate the dynamism embedded in these expressions and the linguistic heritage they carry.
Language, in its perpetual turn, reflects the ever-changing human experience. “Turn” captures this continuous motion — the ebb and flow of circumstances, the pivot on which fortunes hinge, and the agility of thought and action. As we navigate the complexities of communication, understanding and using such expressions with “turn” enriches our conversations, allowing us to articulate the multifaceted turns of the human narrative with precision and color.
