turned it on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "turned it on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of switching something on, as in "She turned the light on."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

"They turned it on, and they created".

The New York Times - Sports

He hasn't turned it on, so it produces no sound.

The New Yorker

Before I turned it on, Chavela was relaxed.

The New Yorker

When he turned it on, it hummed faintly.

The New Yorker

That really, really turned it on for us".

The New York Times - Sports

The back nine, he just turned it on".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

He turns it on and nods.

The New Yorker

I'm turning it on now.

The New Yorker

You just turn it on".

The New York Times

"You can turn it on or turn it off".

The New York Times

You turn it on, turn it off, plug it in.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "turned it on" when you want to express the act of activating a device or initiating a process. For example, "He turned it on to watch the news".

Common error

Avoid using "turned it on" when a more specific verb would be appropriate. For instance, instead of "He turned the charm on", consider using "He charmed her" for a more direct expression.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "turned it on" functions as a phrasal verb, specifically a transitive one, requiring a direct object (in this case, 'it'). As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, it describes the action of activating or initiating something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

11%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "turned it on" is a common and versatile phrasal verb used to describe the act of activating or initiating something, both literally and figuratively. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. Its frequency is considered very common, particularly in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's important to choose more specific verbs in certain contexts to avoid vagueness. Considering its prevalence and varied applications, mastering the usage of "turned it on" enhances clarity and effectiveness in written and spoken English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

activated it

Direct synonym focusing on the action of enabling or making something operative.

switched it on

Common alternative, emphasizing the physical act of flipping a switch.

powered it up

Implies bringing something to full operational capacity.

enabled it

Focuses on granting access or functionality.

started it

A more general term for initiating operation.

ignited it

Suggests a sudden and forceful start, often with energy or enthusiasm.

triggered it

Implies setting off a chain reaction or event.

intensified it

Emphasizes increasing the strength or degree of something, like performance or effort.

ramped it up

Suggests a gradual increase in intensity or activity.

boosted it

Implies improving or increasing the power or effectiveness of something.

FAQs

How can I use "turned it on" in a sentence?

You can use "turned it on" to describe the action of activating something, like "She "turned it on" to listen to music" or "The team "turned it on" in the second half".

What's the difference between "switched it on" and "turned it on"?

"Switched it on" typically refers to using a switch to activate something, while ""turned it on"" can refer to a broader range of activation methods, including knobs, dials, or even a sudden increase in effort.

Which is correct, "turn it on" or "turned it on"?

Both are correct, but they are used in different contexts. "Turn it on" is an imperative (a command), while ""turned it on"" is past tense.

When is it appropriate to use "turned it on" metaphorically?

Metaphorically, ""turned it on"" is appropriate when describing a sudden increase in effort, performance, or enthusiasm. For example, "The athlete "turned it on" in the final stretch".