Turn over the documents

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Turn over the documents" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when instructing someone to hand over or submit specific documents, often in a formal or legal context. Example: "Please turn over the documents related to the case by the end of the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

After years of negotiations and lobbying, the National Archives finally agreed to turn over the documents.

The New Yorker

Since last May, top administration officials have repeatedly refused to turn over the documents.

The New York Times

He said there were "legitimate disputes" about whether KPMG must turn over the documents.

The New York Times

Reynolds was fined two hundred dollars a day for four months before she agreed to turn over the documents.

The New Yorker

Iran could cry foul unless the Americans turn over the documents, which Dr. ElBaradei said Iran had a right to.

The New York Times

Iran could cry foul unless the Americans turn over the documents, which Dr. ElBaradei said it has a right to have.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Moreover, the Council ordered the Iraqis to turn over the document several months ago.

The New York Times

The police obtained a search warrant requiring Mr. McIntosh and The National Post to turn over the document and the envelope in which it was sent.

The New York Times

A person familiar with the matter said there were no current plans to turn over the document to the White House, which still had not seen it Monday.

The Washington Post

Justice Department lawyers, in a response Friday with the Federal District Court in San Francisco, also argued that Judge Vaughn R. Walker had no cause to penalize the government over its refusal to turn over the document.

The New York Times

Ms. Seymour ran afoul of the judge for failing to turn over the document as possible evidence of a defendant's innocence, as required by law based on a case known as Brady v. Maryland.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "Turn over the documents" in legal or formal contexts, ensure that the request is clear, specific, and complies with relevant regulations or court orders.

Common error

Avoid using "Turn over the documents" in casual conversation. Opt for simpler alternatives like "show me the documents" or "give me the documents" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Turn over the documents" functions as an imperative, issuing a direct command or instruction. It is typically used to formally request the submission or provision of documents, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples in legal and official contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

25%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "Turn over the documents" is a common imperative used to request the submission of documents, particularly in formal or legal settings. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical status and high frequency. While highly prevalent in news and media contexts, it also maintains a strong presence in formal business environments. For less formal scenarios, alternatives like "submit the documents" or "hand over the documents" may be more appropriate. Ensure clarity and specificity when using the phrase in legal or official requests.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Submit the documents

A more straightforward and less idiomatic alternative.

Hand over the documents

Similar in meaning, but slightly more informal than the original phrase.

Provide the documents

A neutral and direct alternative, suitable for most contexts.

Release the documents

Emphasizes making the documents publicly available or accessible.

Disclose the documents

Suggests revealing documents that were previously concealed.

Produce the documents

Often used in a legal or formal setting, implying a requirement to present the documents.

Deliver the documents

Focuses on the act of physically transferring the documents.

Furnish the documents

A more formal and somewhat archaic alternative to "provide".

Supply the documents

Similar to "provide" but can imply a more ongoing or regular provision.

Make the documents available

Focuses on ensuring accessibility rather than the act of handing them over.

FAQs

What does "Turn over the documents" mean?

The phrase "Turn over the documents" means to provide or submit documents, often in a formal or legal context. It implies handing over control or possession of the documents to another party.

What can I say instead of "Turn over the documents"?

You can use alternatives like "submit the documents", "hand over the documents", or "provide the documents" depending on the context.

Is "Turn over the documents" formal or informal?

"Turn over the documents" leans towards the formal side. It's often used in legal, business, or official settings. For informal situations, simpler alternatives are preferable.

When is it appropriate to use "Turn over the documents"?

It's appropriate to use "Turn over the documents" when instructing someone to provide or submit specific documents, especially in situations involving legal compliance, investigations, or formal requests. Avoid using it in casual conversations.