Differences between come back and turn back
Come back means to return to a place or situation that you were in before, while turn back means to change direction and go back the way you came.
Meanings and Definitions: come back vs turn back
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Come back
- 1Return.
I left work and CAME BACK home early.
Turn back
- 1Return to a previous position or place.
After realising that they had been walking for too long, they asked other walkers for directions and turned back to reach the pupils.
- 2Return or go back.
Bad weather forced them to turn back.
Usage Examples: come back, turn back in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
come back
Example
Please come back before it gets dark.
Example
She always comes back home late from work.
turn back
Example
When we realized we were lost, we decided to turn back.
Example
She turns back when she notices she forgot her wallet at home.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Come back
To go back to a place or situation that you were in before.
Example
I need to return to the office to pick up my laptop.
To go back to a place or situation that you have been to before, often to experience it again or to review something.
Example
I want to revisit the topic we discussed in our last meeting.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn back
To withdraw or move back from a dangerous or difficult situation.
Example
The soldiers had to retreat when they encountered heavy enemy fire.
To retrace one's steps or path, often to correct a mistake or to find something lost.
Example
We had to backtrack to find the trail we missed.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “come”
Phrasal Verbs with “back”
Differences in come back vs turn back: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: come back or turn back?
Both come back and turn back are commonly used in everyday conversation. However, come back is more frequently used than turn back because it's a more general phrase that can be used in various contexts.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of come back and turn back
Both come back and turn back are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of come back and turn back
The tone of come back and turn back can differ based on context. Come back often carries a positive or neutral tone when referring to returning to a place or situation, while turn back can carry a negative or cautious tone, especially when referring to changing direction due to danger or uncertainty.
