15 English phrasal verbs with turn
From turning up to turning around, turning down to turning out; let’s explore the meanings and look at some examples of these phrasal verbs in action.
In today’s English lesson, we’re looking at phrasal verbs with a focus on the word ‘turn.’ Phrasal verbs, a combination of a verb and one or more prepositions or adverbs, often carry meanings that can be challenging to decipher.
I generally recommend students learn groups of phrasal verbs by theme ie. routine related phrasal verbs, sports related phrasal verbs etc. However it’s useful to have a resource such as the one below where you can explore all the variations with one particular word. There are a lot with ‘turn’ and they all have quite different meanings.
1. Turn around
Definition: To move so that you face the opposite direction.
Example Sentence: When I called her name, she turned around and smiled.
2. Turn away
Definition: To refuse admittance or assistance.
Example Sentence: They were turned away at the restaurant because they didn't have a reservation.
3. Turn down
Definition: To refuse an offer or request.
Example Sentence: She turned down the job offer because it didn't meet her salary expectations.
4. Turn in
Definition: To submit or to go to bed.
Example Sentence: Please turn in your assignments by the end of the day. / I'm tired; I think I'll turn in early tonight.
5. Turn into
Definition: To transform or change into something different.
Example Sentence: The caterpillar turned into a beautiful butterfly.
6. Turn off
Definition: To stop a machine or device.
Example Sentence: Remember to turn off the lights before you leave.
7. Turn on
Definition: To start a machine or device, or to make someone interested or excited.
Example Sentence: Can you turn on the TV?
8. Turn Out
Definition: To happen in a particular way.
Example Sentence: It turned out that the meeting was canceled.
9. Turn Over
Definition: To rotate something.
Example Sentence: Turn over the pancake once it starts to bubble.
10. Turn up/ down
Definition: To increase/ decrease volume or intensity.
Example Sentence: Can you turn up the music? I love this song!
11. Turn against
Definition: To change from supporting to opposing.
Example Sentence: Public opinion turned against the politician after the scandal.
12. Turn to
Definition: To go to someone for help or advice.
Example Sentence: Whenever I'm in trouble, I turn to my best friend for support.
13. Turn in
Definition: To surrender to authorities.
Example Sentence: The criminal decided to turn himself in to the police.
14. Turn out
Definition: To attend an event.
Example Sentence: A large crowd turned out for the concert.
15. To Turn up
Definition: To appear or arrive, often unexpectedly.
Example Sentence: She turned up at the party uninvited.