Differences between turn away and turn back
Turn away means to refuse or reject something or someone, while turn back means to return to a previous location or state.
Meanings and Definitions: turn away vs turn back
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Turn away
- 1Not allow someone to enter a place.
The doorman TURNED him AWAY from the nightclub because he was wearing trainers.
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: turn away, turn back in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
turn away
Example
The security guard turned away the fans without tickets.
Example
She turns away anyone who tries to enter without a reservation.
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 Turn away
To refuse or decline something or someone.
Example
The company had to reject the proposal due to budget constraints.
To reject or disregard something as unimportant or irrelevant.
Example
He dismissed her concerns as unfounded and continued with his plan.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn back
To return to a previous state or condition.
Example
The software program reverted to its previous version after the update caused errors.
To withdraw or move back to a safer or more familiar place.
Example
The soldiers had to retreat to their base after facing heavy enemy fire.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “turn”
Phrasal Verbs with “away”
Phrasal Verbs with “back”
Differences in turn away vs turn back: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: turn away or turn back?
In daily conversation, people use turn back more often than turn away. This is because turn back is used for more common situations such as returning home or going back to a previous point in a conversation. Turn away is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about rejecting something or someone. So, while both phrases are used, turn back is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of turn away and turn back
Turn away 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 turn away and turn back
The tone of turn away and turn back can differ based on context. Turn away often carries a negative or disappointed tone when related to rejection or refusal, while turn back typically has a neutral or positive tone, especially when referring to returning to a familiar place or situation.
