What are the definitions of “turn against”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Stop liking and start disliking.
The public TURNED AGAINST the government when they became arrogant and ceased to listen.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “turn against”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb turn against is to stop liking and start disliking someone or something. It often happens when someone or something disappoints or betrays trust. For example, people might turn against a politician if they break their promises.
What are the different verb forms of “turn against”?
| Root Verb | turn against |
| Third Person Singular Present | turns against |
| Present Participle | turning against |
| Simple Past | turned against |
| Past Participle | turned against |
Example
Many fans turned against the team after a series of losses.
Example
She turns against anyone who lies to her.
Example
The public is turning against the company due to its unethical practices.
Example
The employees turned against their boss when they found out about the pay cuts.
Example
The once-loyal supporters had turned against the leader after the scandal.
What kind of phrasal verb is “turn against”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“turn against” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
The people turned against the government.
Example
He turned against his best friend.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“turn against” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The people turned against the government.
Example
He turned against his best friend.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “turn against”?
Good things to know
Does “turn against” have an informal or formal tone?
Turn against is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal writing or discussions.
