Differences between look around and turn around
Look around means to explore or examine a place or area, while turn around means to rotate or face the opposite direction.
Meanings and Definitions: look around vs turn around
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Look around
- 1To explore or examine a place.
Do you want to look around the school?
- 2To search or explore.
We’ve started looking around for a house in Manchester.
Turn around
- 1To reverse or change the direction or position of something.
If you turn this argument around, you’ll see that it’s equally valid.
- 2To change one's opinion or position.
It was your idea, so don’t turn around and say you’re too busy.
- 3To change direction and go back the way you came.
Maybe she was getting all hysterical about someone who had only pulled in so they could turn around.
Usage Examples: look around, turn around in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
look around
Example
When we arrived at the museum, we decided to look around first.
Example
She looks around the store to find the perfect gift.
turn around
Example
If you turn around, you'll see the beautiful view.
Example
She turns around when she hears her name called.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look around
To travel through an unfamiliar place or area in order to learn about it.
Example
We decided to explore the city by foot and discovered some hidden gems.
To examine or study something carefully in order to understand it better.
Example
The researchers conducted a survey to gather data about people's opinions on climate change.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn around
about-face
To make a sudden and complete change in direction or opinion.
Example
The company did an about-face and decided to invest in renewable energy instead of fossil fuels.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “look”
Phrasal Verbs with “around”
Differences in look around vs turn around: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: look around or turn around?
Both look around and turn around are commonly used in everyday conversations. However, look around is more frequently used than turn around.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of look around and turn around
Both look around and turn around are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations with friends and family. They may not be appropriate in formal settings like business or academic contexts.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of look around and turn around
The tone of look around and turn around can differ based on context. Look around often carries a curious or exploratory tone when related to examining a place or area, while turn around typically has a practical and physical tone, especially when referring to changing direction or facing the opposite way.
