Differences between put back and turn back
Put back means to return something to its original place or position, while turn back means to reverse direction or go back to a previous point in time or location.
Meanings and Definitions: put back vs turn back
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Put back
- 1Rearrange something for a later time.
The AGM has been PUT BACK until July the seventeenth.
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: put back, turn back in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
put back
Example
Please put back the toys when you're done playing with them.
Example
She always puts back the dishes after washing them.
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 Put back
To put something back in its original position or to substitute one thing for another.
Example
He needed to replace the batteries in the remote control to make it work again.
To bring something back to its original condition or state.
Example
The team worked hard to restore the old building to its former glory.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn back
To return to an earlier or less advanced state or condition.
Example
The patient's health started to regress after a few days of improvement.
To reverse or retreat from a previously held position or opinion.
Example
After receiving criticism, the politician had to backpedal on his controversial statement.
Differences in put back vs turn back: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: put back or turn back?
In daily conversation, people use put back more often than turn back. This is because put back is used for more daily tasks and routines such as organizing or cleaning up. Turn back is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about reversing a decision or going back to a previous point in time. So, while both phrases are used, put back is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of put back and turn back
Put back and turn back are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They 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 put back and turn back
The tone of put back and turn back can differ based on context. Put back often carries a practical or helpful tone when related to organizing or cleaning, while turn back typically has a reflective or regretful tone, especially when referring to going back in time or reversing a decision.
