star turn: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘star turn’ mean?

The idiom star turn refers to a prominent or highly successful performance by a talented individual, often in a show or a production. It implies that the person has stood out and captured the attention of the audience or critics.

Idiom Explorer

Deciphering the Enigma

The idiom "star vehicle" is related to the concept of a "star turn." A star vehicle refers to a film, television show, or other form of entertainment that is specifically designed to showcase and highlight the talents of a particular actor or actress. In other words, it is a project that is created with the intention of providing a platform for a well-known and highly regarded performer to shine and attract audiences. This term is often used when a film or show is promoted as being a "must-see" because of the involvement of a particular star. The success or failure of a star vehicle often hinges on the performance of the individual it is built around.

take a turn. This idiom means to have a chance to perform or present oneself, often unexpectedly or at short notice. This can be related to a star turn in the sense that a performer or artist may have an opportunity to showcase their talents in a way that they had not anticipated. For example, a musician may be invited to perform at a high-profile event at the last minute, giving them the chance to take a turn and impress a new audience. Similarly, an actor may be offered a role in a film that provides them with the opportunity to take a turn and demonstrate their skills in a different genre or style of performance.

The star took a dramatic turn in the movie.

steal the show. This idiom refers to the act of attracting all the attention and admiration, often away from others who are also performing or presenting. When someone steals the show, they become the center of attention and leave a lasting impression on the audience. This can be related to a star turn in the sense that a performer who delivers an exceptional and standout performance may steal the show, captivating the audience and overshadowing others who are also involved. The phrase "star turn" implies that the individual involved has the ability to command attention and capture the spotlight.

take a turn for the better. This idiom means to make a positive change or improvement in a situation or one's circumstances. While it is not directly related to the concept of a star turn, it can be used to describe a situation where a performer's career or reputation takes a positive turn after a notable performance or appearance. For example, an actor who delivers a star turn in a critically acclaimed film may experience a turning point in their career, leading to increased recognition and opportunities. Similarly, a musician who steals the show at a high-profile event may find that their popularity and success take a turn for the better, leading to greater opportunities and a larger fan base.

To sum up, the idiom "star turn" refers to a standout performance or appearance by a well-known individual. It is often used to describe impressive moments in various forms of entertainment and can also be used metaphorically in non-performing contexts. The related idioms "star vehicle," "take a turn," "steal the show," and "take a turn for the better" provide additional insights into the concept of a star turn and its implications. Overall, these idioms capture the essence of exceptional talent, noteworthy performances, and the enduring fascination society has for extraordinary achievements.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom *star turn* can be used in a sentence:

  • She had a star turn in the school play, and everyone praised her performance.
  • His star turn on the reality TV show catapulted him to fame overnight.
  • The actor's star turn in the blockbuster movie earned him critical acclaim and multiple awards.

More "Performance" idioms