turn aside

USAGE SUMMARY

"turn aside" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone or something turning away from the main path, direction, or course of action. For example, "He turned aside to avoid the speeding car."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Niemi had to be alert to turn aside Low's shot.

The Guardian - Sport

In the late 18th century librettists began to turn aside from mythology and antiquity.

Encyclopedia Britannica

U.S. goalie Molly Schaus needed to turn aside 10 shots for the shutout.

The Guardian - Sport

You may not be able to solve the problem, but turn aside and write something else.

The Guardian - Books

"May we turn aside the hate and prejudice, and love the hater," he said.

The New Yorker

Genghis Khan himself was compelled to turn aside from China and carry out the conquest of Khwārezm.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Carter scored 17 of Dallas' last 21 points in the third quarter to help turn aside a Sacramento rally.

The Guardian - Sport

The governor's aides cite his legislative achievements and turn aside suggestions that he is troubled by defections.

The New York Times

Robin Lehner made a game-saving stop on Derek Stepan early in the third period, using his waffle pad to turn aside a point-blank shot.

The New York Times - Sports

Its approach was heralded by a dazzling flash of red, blue and yellow lights, and crews that leapfrogged ahead to lift power lines and turn aside traffic lights.

The New York Times - Arts

The pause that enabled Kristen Stewart to turn aside from the microphone, though not aside enough, and cough in spluttery fear over her shoulder?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical movement, consider whether "turn aside" accurately conveys the intention of avoidance or redirection.

Common error

While "turn aside" is acceptable in various settings, overuse in formal writing can make your language sound repetitive. Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "divert", "deflect", or "evade" to add nuance and precision to your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "turn aside" functions primarily as a verb phrase. Ludwig AI shows it's used to describe the act of deflecting, avoiding, or changing direction, either physically or metaphorically. The phrase can also function as part of a phrasal verb.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "turn aside" is a versatile verb phrase used to express the act of deflecting, avoiding, or changing direction. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and frequently used, especially in news and media. While suitable for both formal and informal contexts, it is important to consider synonyms to avoid repetition, particularly in formal writing. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its application in various scenarios, from physical actions to abstract concepts. Common usages include describing a goalkeeper deflecting a shot or someone choosing to ignore something.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

divert from

Suggests redirecting from one direction or purpose to another.

deviate from

Implies a departure from an established course or standard, often with a negative connotation.

swerve from

Indicates a sudden change in direction, usually to avoid something.

deflect from

Means to ward off or turn something away, often an attack or criticism.

evade

Suggests escaping or avoiding something, often cleverly or secretly.

back away from

Suggests withdrawing from a commitment or position.

shun

Implies deliberately avoiding someone or something.

recoil from

Indicates a sudden movement away from something unpleasant or frightening.

look away from

To avoid seeing something unpleasant or disturbing.

abstain from

Means to restrain oneself from doing or enjoying something.

FAQs

What does "turn aside" mean?

"Turn aside" means to move or direct something away from a path or course. It can also mean to disregard or reject something.

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

You can use "turn aside" in sentences like: "He had to "turn aside" from his original plans due to unforeseen circumstances" or "The goalkeeper managed to "turn aside" the shot".

What can I say instead of "turn aside"?

You can use alternatives like "deviate from", "divert from", or "deflect from" depending on the context.

Is "turn aside" formal or informal?

"Turn aside" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though more formal synonyms like "divert from" may be preferable in academic or professional writing.