turn down: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘turn down’ mean?
The idiom "turn down" means to reject or refuse something, usually an offer or invitation.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "turn-off" refers to something that causes a loss of interest or enthusiasm in a person or makes them feel repulsed or disgusted.
The idiom "turn of events" refers to an unexpected change or shift in a situation or sequence of events.
The idiom "turn into" means to undergo a transformation or change, typically resulting in becoming something else or adopting a different form or state.
The idiom "turn in one's grave" means to experience strong disapproval or disappointment, symbolically imagined as the deceased person's reaction to a particular event or situation.
The idiom "turn in" means to go to bed or to go to sleep.
The idiom "turn back the clock" means to go back in time, undoing or reversing the effects of previous actions or events.
The idiom "turn a trick" refers to the act of performing a task or solving a problem, often in a clever or skillful way. It can also have a negative connotation, implying the use of deception or manipulation to achieve a desired outcome.
When used as an idiom, "turn around" means to change direction, to reverse a situation, or to make a significant improvement in a short amount of time.
The idiom *turn against* means to change one's feelings or allegiance towards someone or something, becoming negative, hostile, or unsupportive.
The Definition: "Rejecting an Offer"
The idiom "turn down" has different meanings and uses in the English language. One meaning is to reject or refuse something offered or proposed. This can include declining an invitation, job offer, or request for help. The phrase "turn someone down" can also refer to rejecting someone romantically or refusing their advances. Similarly, "turn down an offer" can mean declining a business proposition or opportunity.
Another meaning of "turn down" is to reduce the volume or intensity of something, especially sound. This can involve adjusting the volume of a radio, television, or other audio device. It can also be used more broadly to lower the intensity of any type of noise or disturbance.
In addition to these primary meanings, the idiom "turn down" is also found in related expressions. These expressions include "turn-off-idiom-meaning-and-origin/">turn off", "vote down", and "turn-off". The phrase "turn off" refers to causing someone to lose interest or become disengaged. For example, a boring presentation may turn off the audience. "Vote down" means to reject or defeat a proposal or idea through a formal vote. Lastly, "turn-off" can describe something that is unappealing or off-putting.
The origin of the idiom "turn down" can be traced back to the Middle English phrase "turne doun," which had similar meanings of refusal or rejection. Over time, the phrase evolved and became more widely used in both literal and figurative contexts. The verb "turn" implies a change in direction or position, while "down" suggests a downward movement or decrease in intensity.
Throughout history, this idiom has been frequently used in literature, movies, and everyday conversations. It has become deeply ingrained in the English language, with native speakers understanding its various meanings and nuances. Despite its prevalence, the idiom "turn down" still allows for different interpretations and applications.
The idiom "turn down" has multiple meanings and uses in English. It can refer to rejecting or refusing something offered, reducing the volume or intensity of something, or be part of related expressions such as "turn off", "vote down", and "turn-off". Its origin can be traced back to Middle English, and it has remained a commonly used phrase throughout history.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *turn down* can be used in a sentence:
- She had to turn down the job offer because it required too much travel.
- He asked her to go to the prom with him, but she turned him down.
- I'm sorry, but I have to turn down your invitation to dinner tonight.
More "Verbs" idioms
