turn it over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "turn it over" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, such as when asking someone to flip an object or to change a situation or perspective. Example: "If you want to see the other side of the document, just turn it over."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Turn it over, dimwit.

The New Yorker

Don't turn it over".

The New York Times

I turn it over and I turn it over.

The New Yorker

He's willing to turn it over".

The New York Times

Barman (relenting) "I'll turn it over".

The Guardian

I turn it over and say, 'Hey, there's a story.' ".

The New York Times - Books

We'd have to turn it over to them to fight.

The New Yorker

Not turn it over to the Betty White generation, apparently.

The New York Times

"The French want to turn it over to the U.N.

The New York Times

"It's time for me to turn it over to another".

The New York Times

You turn it over to her, consider it done".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to physically rotate an object, use "turn it over" for clarity and directness. For instance, when baking, you might say, "Once the bottom is golden brown, turn it over to cook the other side."

Common error

Avoid using "turn it over" when a more specific verb is appropriate. Instead of saying "Turn it over to the committee", specify "delegate the task" or "assign responsibility" for better clarity.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "turn it over" is that of a phrasal verb. It's versatile, functioning as both a transitive verb (requiring an object, like "turn the page over") and, less commonly, intransitive verb. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage across different types of texts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

26%

News & Media

68%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

Turn it over is a versatile phrasal verb with multiple meanings, ranging from physically flipping an object to delegating responsibilities or carefully considering something. Ludwig AI validates that it is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and media and instructional contexts. While its register is generally neutral, it's essential to consider the specific context to choose the most appropriate synonym for clarity and precision. Common errors include using the phrase in situations where a more specific verb would be more suitable. By understanding these nuances, writers can effectively and accurately use turn it over in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

flip it over

Implies a quick, physical act of reversing an object.

hand it over

Focuses on transferring possession or responsibility.

pass it on

Highlights the continuation of a process or passing of information.

delegate it

Specifically refers to assigning a task or responsibility to someone else.

consider it

Emphasizes the act of thinking about something carefully.

think it over

Stresses a longer, more contemplative consideration.

give it thought

Similar to 'consider it' but slightly more informal.

ponder it

Implies a deep and reflective consideration.

examine it

Focuses on a detailed and careful inspection.

inspect it

Similar to 'examine it' but can suggest a more official or formal review.

FAQs

How can I use "turn it over" in a sentence?

You can use "turn it over" to instruct someone to physically flip something, as in "Turn the pancake over when bubbles appear". It can also mean to delegate a task, like "I'll turn it over to the project manager". Or, it can mean to consider something carefully, such as "Turn it over in your mind and let me know what you think".

What are some alternatives to "turn it over"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "flip it over" (for physical rotation), "delegate it" (for assigning tasks), or "consider it" (for thoughtful reflection).

Is "turn it over" formal or informal?

"Turn it over" is generally considered neutral to informal. In formal contexts, consider more precise language depending on your intended meaning. For instance, instead of "turn it over to the authorities", say "report it to the authorities".

What does "turn it over" mean in a sports context?

In sports, particularly basketball and football, "turn it over" means to lose possession of the ball to the opposing team. For example, "The team can't afford to turn the ball over so much during the playoffs".