What are the definitions of “turn around”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To reverse or change the direction or position of something.
If you turn this argument around, you’ll see that it’s equally valid.
- 2To change one's opinion or position.
It was your idea, so don’t turn around and say you’re too busy.
- 3To change direction and go back the way you came.
Maybe she was getting all hysterical about someone who had only pulled in so they could turn around.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “turn around”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb turn around is to change the direction or position of something or someone. It can be used to describe physically changing direction or changing one's opinion or position on a topic.
What are the different verb forms of “turn around”?
| Root Verb | turn around |
| Third Person Singular Present | turns around |
| Present Participle | turning around |
| Simple Past | turned around |
| Past Participle | turned around |
Example
If you turn around, you'll see the beautiful view.
Example
She turns around when she hears her name called.
Example
He is turning around to face the other direction.
Example
Yesterday, they turned around and went back home.
Example
The situation has turned around for the better.
What kind of phrasal verb is “turn around”?
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.)
Intransitive verb
“turn around” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
She turned around when she heard her name.
Example
He turned around and went back the way he came.
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 around” 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
She turned around when she heard her name.
Example
He turned around and went back the way he came.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “turn around”?
Good things to know
Does “turn around” have an informal or formal tone?
Turn around is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, such as in business or academic discussions, depending on the specific context.
