Phrasal verbs "turn on" vs "turn to"

Differences between turn on and turn to

Turn on means to activate or start a device, machine, or light. On the other hand, turn to means to seek help, advice, or support from someone or something.

Meanings and Definitions: turn on vs turn to

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Turn on

  • 1Cause someone to feel attraction or pleasure.

    He really TURNS me ON.

  • 2Start a machine.

    I TURNED the radio ON to get the weather forecast.

  • 3Attack.

    The neighbour's dog TURNED ON me when I tried to stroke it.

Turn to

  • 1Try to get help.

    She had nobody to TURN TO when her husband died.

  • 2Take up a habit.

    He TURNED TO drink after he lost his job.

Usage Examples: turn on, turn to in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

turn on

Example

Please turn on the lights when you enter the room.

Example

She turns on the coffee maker every morning.

turn to

Example

When she felt lonely, she would turn to her friends for comfort.

Example

He turns to his family for advice when making important decisions.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn on

switch on

To turn on or activate an electrical device or machine.

Example

He switched on the air conditioner to cool down the room.

power up

To turn on or start a computer or electronic device.

Example

She powered up her laptop to check her emails.

To start or set fire to something.

Example

He ignited the grill to cook the burgers.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn to

To depend on or trust someone or something for help or support.

Example

She relies on her best friend for emotional support during tough times.

To actively look for or search for someone or something for help or advice.

Example

He sought out a financial advisor to help him plan his retirement.

To use as a last resort or backup plan when facing a difficult situation.

Example

When she lost her job, she had to fall back on her savings to pay her bills.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “turn”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Phrasal Verbs with “to”

Differences in turn on vs turn to: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: turn on or turn to?

In daily conversation, people use turn on more often than turn to. This is because turn on is used for more daily tasks and routines such as turning on the TV or the lights. Turn to is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about seeking help or advice. So, while both phrases are used, turn on is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of turn on and turn to

Turn on and turn to 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 on and turn to

The tone of turn on and turn to can differ based on context. Turn on often carries a practical and straightforward tone when related to activating devices or machines, while turn to typically has a more vulnerable and emotional tone, especially when referring to seeking help or support.

turn on & turn to: Synonyms and Antonyms

Turn on

Synonyms

Antonyms

Turn to

Synonyms

  • consult
  • seek help
  • ask for assistance
  • rely on
  • depend on
  • resort to
  • look to
  • appeal to

Antonyms

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!