total turn off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "total turn off" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe something that we are not interested in or that we find completely unappealing. For example, "The foul smell coming from the kitchen was a total turn off for us and we decided to leave immediately."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Happy Alfie, fizzing with cheer and vapid wordplay, is a total turn off.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

This is a total turn off.

WikiHow

However, don't make it obvious that you're trying to get their attention; that will be a total turn off.

WikiHow

Even if you're nice to her if she sees you being mean or rude to other people it can be a total turn off.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

The selling of perfect relationships and some bourgeois idea of normality is actually a total turn-off.

The Guardian - Opinion

The problem with Al Gore is not only that he's a goody-goody, but that he's a bullying goody-goody -- an oxymoron that seems a total turn-off to the male voters that Mr. Gore badly needs.

The New York Times

In real life, I find it a total turn-off.

Vice

The mixing of BDSM and HR here is a total turn-off at best and deeply unsettling at worst.

Vice

It's a total turn-off.

WikiHow

And bad breath is a total turn-off).

WikiHow

If you want to get on her good side, use encouragement and genuine compliments (not the fake kind -- those are a total turn-off) to build trust.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "total turn off" to express strong disapproval or disinterest in a clear and direct manner. It's effective for emphasizing a complete lack of appeal.

Common error

While "total turn off" is widely understood, it might be too informal for professional or academic writing. Consider more formal alternatives like "completely unappealing" or "major deterrent" in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "total turn off" functions as a subjective evaluation, expressing a strong negative reaction or lack of interest. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in describing behaviors, ideas, or situations that are deemed undesirable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Wiki

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "total turn off" is an informal phrase used to express strong disapproval or a complete lack of interest. Ludwig's AI confirms its validity and common usage, particularly in informal contexts and news media. While grammatically correct, it's important to consider the audience and context, opting for more formal alternatives like "completely unappealing" in professional or academic settings. Using "total turn off" effectively conveys a clear and direct message of disinterest, but careful consideration of register is key.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Completely undesirable

Emphasizes the lack of wanting or wishing for something.

Off-putting

Focuses on causing distaste or discomfort.

Completely unappealing

Focuses on the lack of attraction or desirability.

Absolute deal-breaker

Indicates a non-negotiable issue that ends consideration.

Not at all attractive

Directly states the absence of attractiveness.

Extremely uninviting

Highlights the lack of appeal or welcoming nature.

Major deterrent

Highlights the discouraging or preventing aspect.

Something I find repulsive

Emphasizes strong dislike or disgust.

A real buzzkill

Indicates something that spoils excitement or enjoyment.

A definite no-go

Informally expresses that something is unacceptable or impossible.

FAQs

How can I use "total turn off" in a sentence?

You can use "total turn off" to describe something you find completely unappealing or undesirable, such as "His arrogance was a total turn off".

What's a more formal way to say "total turn off"?

For more formal situations, consider using phrases like "completely unappealing" or "major deterrent".

Is "total turn off" appropriate for all types of writing?

While widely understood, "total turn off" is generally considered informal. It's best suited for casual conversations, personal writing, or less formal articles. For academic or professional contexts, consider more formal alternatives.

What does "total turn off" mean?

"Total turn off" means something is completely unappealing, undesirable, or causes a strong feeling of disinterest or aversion.