Differences between turn back and turn down
Turn back means to go back or return to a previous location, while turn down means to reject an offer or request.
Meanings and Definitions: turn back vs turn down
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Turn down
- 1Reduce volume, temperature, etc..
The room was too hot, so she TURNED the heating DOWN.
- 2Reject an offer, invitation, etc..
They offered her the job, but she TURNED it DOWN.
- 3Fold the top covers of a bed down to make it ready for someone to go to sleep.
The hotel staff TURNED DOWN the bed and scattered flower petals on it while we was having dinner.
Usage Examples: turn back, turn down in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
turn down
Example
Please turn down the music; it's too loud.
Example
She always turns down the heat before going to bed.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn back
To withdraw or move back from a dangerous or unfavorable situation.
Example
The soldiers were ordered to retreat after facing heavy fire from the enemy.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn down
To refuse or decline an offer or request.
Example
He had to reject the job offer because it didn't match his career goals.
decline
To politely refuse or turn down an offer or request.
Example
He had to decline the dinner invitation due to a prior commitment.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “turn”
Phrasal Verbs with “back”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
Differences in turn back vs turn down: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: turn back or turn down?
In daily conversation, people use turn down more often than turn back. This is because turn down is used in various situations such as job offers, invitations, and requests. Turn back is not used as much, but it's still a common phrase in travel-related contexts. So, while both phrases are used, turn down is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of turn back and turn down
Turn back and turn down 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 back and turn down
The tone of turn back and turn down can differ based on context. Turn back often carries a regretful or frustrated tone when related to returning to a previous location, while turn down typically has a polite and apologetic tone, especially when rejecting an offer or request.
