TURN BACK Meaning and
Definition
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Turn back is a phrasal verb that has multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used.
The primary definition of turn back is to reverse direction and return to the starting point or previous location. It implies retracting one's steps or going back on a path already followed. For instance, if someone realizes they forgot something at home, they may need to turn back and retrieve it before continuing their journey.
In a figurative sense, turn back can denote changing one's decision or position on a certain matter. It means to reconsider or reverse a previous stance or action. This can be seen in situations where individuals have a change of heart and abandon their original intentions or opinions.
Furthermore, turn back can refer to a time or event in the past. It involves reflecting on or revisiting the past, often in an attempt to remember or understand something that occurred. This can be observed when people reminisce or ponder about their earlier experiences or choices.
In some cases, turn back is used to warn or advise someone against proceeding further because of potential dangers or obstacles that lie ahead. This is commonly employed when individuals encounter hazardous conditions or encounter a point of no return, such as during extreme weather or in unfamiliar territories.
Overall, turn back encompasses the notions of reversal, reflection, reconsideration, and prevention, depending on the specific context in which it is used.
Common Misspellings for TURN BACK
- rurn back
- furn back
- gurn back
- yurn back
- 6urn back
- 5urn back
- tyrn back
- thrn back
- tjrn back
- tirn back
- t8rn back
- t7rn back
- tuen back
- tudn back
- tufn back
- tutn back
- tu5n back
- tu4n back
- turb back
Etymology of TURN BACK
The word "turn back" is a compound word formed by combining the verb "turn" with the adverb "back". Each component of the compound word has its own etymology.
"Turn" can be traced back to the Old English word "turnian", which means "to rotate" or "to change direction". It is related to the Old Norse word "turna" and the Middle Low German word "turnen". These words have their roots in the Proto-Germanic word "tornijaną", meaning "to turn or revolve".
"Back" is derived from the Old English word "bæc", which refers to the back part of the body or something located behind. It shares its origin with similar words in other Germanic languages, such as the Old Saxon word "bak", the Old Norse word "bak" or "baki", and the Old High German word "bah".
Idioms with the word TURN BACK
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turn back the clock
The idiom "turn back the clock" means the act of revisiting or restoring a past situation or time, often to when things were simpler, more pleasant, or more desirable. It implies a desire to undo or reverse the passage of time and return to a previous state, whether it be to relive a cherished moment or to rectify a mistake. It can also refer to an attempt to halt or slow down the progress or advancements in a particular field or area.
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turn back on
The idiom "turn back on" refers to the act of abandoning or renouncing something or someone that was previously supported or relied upon. It means to disassociate oneself from a person, situation, or belief, often due to a change in opinion, disappointment, or betrayal.
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turn back (from sm place)
The idiom "turn back (from some place)" means to change direction and return to where one came from, especially when facing obstacles, danger, or simply deciding to abandon a course of action.
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turn back
To turn back means to return to the place or situation you came from, to change direction and go back the way you came.
Similar spelling words for TURN BACK
