take a turn

USAGE SUMMARY

'take a turn' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it in many different contexts to mean having a go at something or making a change in direction. For example, "After Billy finished playing the game, it was my turn to take a turn."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"You take a turn".

The New Yorker

Then, things take a turn.

The Washington Post

His drives take a turn toward Thanatos.

The New York Times

Perhaps only if markets take a turn for the worse.

The Economist

She said she might take a turn as a writer.

The New York Times

Mr. Masur may also take a turn at the podium.

The New York Times

Things take a turn for the cosmic on Bamboo.

The Guardian - Music

"You can't take a turn at that speed.

The New York Times

This year I'd like to take a turn at it.

The New York Times

Did he take a turn at being captain?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Then events were to take a turn for the surreal.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a change in circumstances, ensure the context clearly indicates whether the turn is for better or worse. For example, "The company's fortunes "took a turn" for the better after the new CEO was appointed."

Common error

Avoid literal interpretations of "take a turn" in contexts where a figurative meaning is intended. For instance, do not use it to describe physically turning an object unless that is the explicit action being described. Instead, be aware of the idiomatic usage to mean experiencing a change or participating in an activity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take a turn" functions as an idiomatic expression. It typically denotes participation in a sequence of actions, like games or shared responsibilities, or signifies a change in circumstances. Ludwig's AI validates its appropriate use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Academia

10%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "take a turn" is a versatile idiomatic expression commonly used to describe either participating in a sequenced activity or to denote a change in circumstances. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. It's frequently found in News & Media and academic settings, highlighting its neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure that the context is clear, whether indicating participation or a shift in events. Be mindful of its idiomatic nature to avoid literal misinterpretations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have a go

Indicates an attempt or participation in something, similar to "take a turn" in the context of trying an activity.

have a shot at

Implies an opportunity to attempt something, aligning with "take a turn" when referring to a chance to try.

try your hand at

Implies attempting something, often for the first time, like "take a turn" in a new endeavor.

change direction

Signifies a shift in trajectory or approach, similar to "take a turn" in a directional sense.

try your luck

Suggests attempting something with an uncertain outcome, like "take a turn" when referring to an uncertain situation.

participate in

Focuses on the act of taking part in an activity, similar to "take a turn" in a shared activity.

experience a change

Highlights a shift in circumstances or conditions, akin to "take a turn" when things change.

events unfold

Refers to how events progress or develop, like "take a turn" when describing how things evolve.

alter course

Suggests a change in direction or strategy, similar to "take a turn" in a metaphorical sense.

things shift

Emphasizes a change in situation or events, like "take a turn" when describing an alteration in circumstances.

FAQs

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

You can use "take a turn" to indicate participation in an activity, like "Each of us will "have a go"" or to describe a change in circumstances, such as "Things "experienced a change" for the worse".

What are some alternatives to "take a turn"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like ""have a go"", "participate in", or "experience a change".

Is it correct to say "took a turn for the better"?

Yes, "took a turn for the better" is a common and correct idiom. It means that a situation has improved. The opposite is "took a turn for the worse".

What does it mean when someone says "it's my turn to take a turn"?

The phrase repeats "turn" for emphasis: the first indicates a sequence or order, and the second indicates the action of participating. Saying "it's my turn to "take a turn"" means it's your opportunity to "have a go" at something after someone else.