turn heads

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "turn heads" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that causes people to take notice of it. For example, "His outfit was sure to turn heads at the party."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Some names turn heads.

The New York Times

"They certainly turn heads".

The New York Times

You turn heads.

The New York Times - Sports

This forthcoming release will undoubtedly turn heads.

Independent

Their work at Talay won't turn heads.

The New York Times - Food

But that did little to turn heads.

The New York Times - Tech

It is still fresh enough to turn heads.

Independent

Again, he said, his costumes for nationals will turn heads.

The New York Times - Sports

I don't seem to turn heads the way I used to".

The New Yorker

I want to be talked about and turn heads when I walk into a place.

The New York Times - Magazine

He was not someone who could turn heads while entering a room.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "turn heads" when you want to emphasize that something or someone is visually striking or impressive, capturing the attention of others in a positive way.

Common error

Avoid using "turn heads" to describe something that attracts negative attention. Instead, opt for phrases like "draw criticism" or "raise eyebrows" if the attention is unwanted or controversial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "turn heads" functions as a verb phrase. It's commonly used as an idiomatic expression to describe the act of attracting attention, especially due to someone's appearance or actions. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

16%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Reference

3%

Academia

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "turn heads" is a very common and grammatically correct idiom used to describe the act of attracting attention, often in a positive or admiring way. As Ludwig AI points out, it's widely used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While its register is generally neutral, it's important to avoid using it in contexts where the attention is negative. Related phrases include "attract attention", "stand out", and "get noticed". When aiming to convey visual impact or impressive qualities, "turn heads" is an apt and effective choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get noticed

A simple and direct way of saying attract attention.

garner attention

A more formal way of saying attract attention.

attract attention

Focuses on the act of getting noticed, less about the admiration aspect.

stand out

Emphasizes being different or noticeable from the surroundings.

draw admiring glances

Highlights the positive attention received, specifically admiration.

be eye-catching

Specifically refers to visual appeal and attracting attention through appearance.

cause a stir

Implies creating excitement or interest, not necessarily positive.

be the center of attention

Highlights being the focal point of a situation or environment.

make an impression

Focuses on leaving a lasting impact, which may or may not involve immediate attention.

create a buzz

Suggests generating excitement and conversation around something.

FAQs

How to use "turn heads" in a sentence?

You can use "turn heads" to describe something that attracts attention, like "Her dress was sure to "turn heads" at the party".

What can I say instead of "turn heads"?

You can use alternatives like "attract attention", "stand out", or "get noticed" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "turn heads" or "turn head"?

"Turn heads" is the correct and idiomatic expression. "Turn head" is grammatically incorrect in this context.

What's the difference between "turn heads" and "get noticed"?

"Turn heads" often implies attracting positive attention or admiration, while "get noticed" is a more general term for simply being seen or recognized.