Differences between turn back and turn over
Turn back usually means to return or go back to a previous location or point in time, whereas turn over generally means to flip something over or to hand something over to someone else.
Meanings and Definitions: turn back vs turn over
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 over
- 1Give to the authorities.
The court ordered the company to TURN OVER their financial records.
Usage Examples: turn back, turn over 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 over
Example
The company was asked to turn over the documents to the authorities.
Example
She turns over any suspicious emails to the IT department.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn back
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn over
To give up or yield control of something to someone else.
Example
The army had to surrender their weapons to the enemy during the war.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “turn”
Phrasal Verbs with “back”
- row back
- drive back
- start back
- ring back
- phone back
Phrasal Verbs with “over”
Differences in turn back vs turn over: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: turn back or turn over?
In daily conversation, people use turn over more often than turn back. This is because turn over is used for more daily tasks and routines such as flipping a page or giving something to someone. Turn back is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about returning to a place or a previous point in time. So, while both phrases are used, turn over is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of turn back and turn over
Turn back and turn over 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 over
The tone of turn back and turn over can differ based on context. Turn back often carries a nostalgic or regretful tone when related to returning to a previous point in time, while turn over typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to flipping objects or handing things over.
