sharp turn

USAGE SUMMARY

"sharp turn" is a perfectly acceptable phrase in written English and can be used in many contexts.
For example, "The driver suddenly took a sharp turn, and we nearly rolled off the road."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So it's a very sharp turn on.

Cornell University

This was a sharp turn, and not the first.

The New Yorker

That album was remarkable, and a sharp turn for you.

The New York Times

A single paragraph later, Rathbone took a sharp turn.

The Guardian - Books

Video shows the van take a sharp turn.

The Guardian

But the story has taken a sharp turn.

The New York Times

His 35th was saved after a sharp turn.

The Guardian - Sport

As a future candidate, though, Burr was finished, and his career took a sharp turn.

Princeton University

A sharp turn in the property cycle is a serious matter.

The Economist

When the bus took a sharp turn off the main road, I panicked and jumped off.

The New York Times

But California is in America, which has taken a sharp turn in the opposite direction.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a change, consider whether "sharp turn" accurately conveys the suddenness and degree of alteration you intend to express.

Common error

Avoid using "sharp turn" when a more gradual or subtle shift is intended, as it implies an abrupt and noticeable change rather than a smooth transition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sharp turn" typically functions as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes a sudden and significant change in direction or condition. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

25%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sharp turn" is a common phrase used to describe a sudden and significant change in direction or condition. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across different contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science, and Academia. While it maintains a generally neutral register, it is best used when emphasizing abruptness and decisiveness. For alternative expressions, consider "abrupt change", "sudden shift", or "drastic alteration" to tailor the nuance to your specific needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

abrupt change

This alternative emphasizes the suddenness of the change, similar to "sharp turn".

sudden shift

This option highlights a change in position or direction that occurs quickly.

drastic alteration

This choice suggests a significant and impactful change, maintaining the sense of a major deviation.

marked deviation

This phrase indicates a notable departure from a previous course or standard.

radical transformation

This implies a fundamental change in nature or condition, akin to a "sharp turn" in circumstances.

unexpected twist

Highlights the surprise aspect of a sudden change in a narrative or situation.

complete reversal

Emphasizes a change to the opposite direction or state.

major inflection point

Indicates a critical moment when a significant change occurs.

course correction

Implies an adjustment to a planned path, often in response to unforeseen circumstances.

about-face

Suggests a complete change in attitude or direction, similar to turning around sharply.

FAQs

How can I use "sharp turn" in a sentence?

You can use "sharp turn" to describe a sudden change in direction, such as "The car made a sharp turn" or a sudden change in circumstances, such as "The company took a sharp turn in strategy".

What can I say instead of "sharp turn"?

You can use alternatives like "abrupt change", "sudden shift", or "drastic alteration" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "sharp turn" or "sudden curve"?

Both "sharp turn" and "sudden curve" can be correct, but they have slightly different meanings. "Sharp turn" implies a more angular and immediate change in direction, while "sudden curve" suggests a more gradual, though still unexpected, bend.

What's the difference between "sharp turn" and "U-turn"?

A "U-turn" is a specific type of turn where you rotate 180 degrees to go in the opposite direction. A "sharp turn" is a more general term for any abrupt change in direction, which may or may not result in a complete reversal.