What's the difference between "turn back" and "turn around"?

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

The difference isn't too big. "Turn around" simply means the act of turning to face the opposite direction one is currently facing or moving in. "Turn back" is similar, but it specifically has to do with movement, so it describes the process of moving in a direction, stopping, turning around and moving back in the direction one came from. That being said, it's possible to use them interchangeably when talking about movement specifically. Ex: Sorry, this road is closed, you have to turn back/around. Ex: Wow, that outfit looks great! Turn around so I can see it from the back.

How do native speakers use this expression?

Share this post

Popular Q&As

10/10

1
What does "dance to something" mean? What should I put on the 'something' part, the kind of the dance or song for dance?
"Dance to something" refers to dancing to a song. The "something" part refers to a song to dance to. Ex: We can't dance to this song, it's too fast.

2
What's "spare" mean?
Here, "spare" is a verb that means to give when it might be a bit difficult for you or to manage without a bit of something. It can also mean preventing someone from experiencing something bad. As a noun or adjective, it can mean something that's available to use as an extra. Ex: We have a spare tire in the back of the car in case one of them goes flat. Ex: Can you spare me two dollars for the fair? Ex: I'll spare you the details of my visit to the doctor.

3
Why "in" is necessary when use "there"?
As can be seen in the clip Jake and Finn are spying on the other characters who are in a room. The use of "in" before "there" is necessary to emphasize the location of the other characters. They are "in the room", while Jake and Finn are outside. Ex: Is anyone in there? Ex: Maybe I should go in there and talk to him.

4
What does "getting hitched" mean?
"Getting hitched" is an expression that means to get married. Ex: She is getting hitched next November. I'm so excited for her! Ex: They are finally getting hitched. They have been together for so long.

5
What's "see past" mean? When's it used?
To "see past" something means to not be influenced by something or to ignore something so as to not let it change your mind or consider something differently. Ex: My friends see past all my flaws and still like hanging out with me. Ex: If you see past all the filters on social media, you'll see people's humanity. Ex: I can't see past what he did. I won't be able to forgive him.

Complete the expression with a quiz!