turn on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'turn on' is an acceptable part of written English.
You would often use this phrase to refer to starting a device or a process. For example: "I need to turn on the computer before I can get started."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Turn on state television.

The New York Times

Turn on the computer.

The New York Times

They turn on you.

Wikipedia

Turn on the Wii.

WikiHow

Turn on the ignition.

WikiHow

Turn on the hose.

WikiHow

Turn on the router.

WikiHow

Turn on the program.

WikiHow

Turn on Personal Hotspot.

WikiHow

Turn on your washer.

WikiHow

Turn on your calculator.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to use a device, be specific about what needs to be turned on. For example, instead of just saying "Turn it on", say "Turn on the television" or "Turn on the router".

Common error

Avoid using "turn on" when a more specific verb is appropriate. For example, instead of "Turn on the water with the valve", simply use "Open the valve" or "Activate the valve".

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "turn on" primarily functions as a transitive verb, requiring an object to complete its meaning. It indicates the action of activating or starting something, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples like "Turn on the computer" or "Turn on the lights."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

62%

News & Media

12%

Science

26%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "turn on" is a versatile expression primarily used to indicate the act of activating or starting a device or process. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and commonly used. While predominantly found in neutral contexts such as wikiHow and news media, its meaning can also extend to signify dependence. For clearer communication, especially when offering instructions, it is useful to specify the object to be activated, like "Turn on the computer". For more formal contexts, consider alternatives like "activate" or "power up".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

switch on

A direct synonym, often used interchangeably when referring to activating a device or appliance.

activate

Implies setting something in motion or making it functional, often used in a more formal or technical context.

power up

Specifically refers to supplying power to a device to make it operational.

start up

Similar to "turn on", but often implies a more complex process of beginning operation, like a computer.

set in motion

Describes initiating a process or event, moving away from the literal act of switching something on.

get going

Suggests initiating an activity or process, with a focus on starting rather than the mechanism of activation.

depend on

Shifts the meaning to relying on something as a central point or condition.

hinge on

Similar to 'depend on', indicating that something is contingent on a specific factor.

rely on

Focuses on the aspect of trusting or counting on something for a particular outcome.

pivot around

Suggests that something's central point or outcome is determined by a specific element.

FAQs

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

You can use "turn on" to describe starting a device, like in the sentence, "Please "turn on" the lights." It can also mean to depend on, as in, "The outcome will "turn on" your decision."

What's the difference between "turn on" and "switch on"?

"Turn on" and "switch on" are often interchangeable when referring to electrical devices. However, "turn on" can also have a broader meaning, like 'to depend on', which "switch on" doesn't convey.

What can I say instead of "turn on" to sound more formal?

In a more formal context, you might use "activate" or "power up", especially when describing machinery or equipment. The best choice depends on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "turn on" in a professional setting?

Yes, using "turn on" is perfectly acceptable in most professional settings, especially when giving instructions or describing processes. For example, "Please "turn on" the projector for the presentation."