Differences between turn away and turn off
Turn away means to move your face or body so that you are not facing someone or something, while turn off means to stop a machine or device from working or to cause someone to lose interest in something.
Meanings and Definitions: turn away vs turn off
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Turn away
- 1Not allow someone to enter a place.
The doorman TURNED him AWAY from the nightclub because he was wearing trainers.
Turn off
- 1Stop a machine.
I TURNED the TV OFF and went to bed.
Usage Examples: turn away, turn off 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 off
Example
Please turn off the lights before you leave the room.
Example
She turns off her phone during meetings.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn away
To deliberately avoid or reject someone or something.
Example
The community shunned the politician after his controversial remarks.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn off
switch off
To stop the flow of electricity to a machine or device.
Example
Don't forget to switch off the lights before leaving the room.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “turn”
Phrasal Verbs with “away”
Differences in turn away vs turn off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: turn away or turn off?
In daily conversation, people use turn off more often than turn away. This is because turn off is used for more daily tasks and routines such as turning off the lights or turning off the TV. Turn away is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about physically moving away from something or someone. So, while both phrases are used, turn off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of turn away and turn off
Turn away and turn off 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 off
The tone of turn away and turn off can differ based on context. Turn away often carries a negative or sad tone when related to rejecting someone or something, while turn off typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to machines or devices.