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.