turning over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "turning over" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a physical action or process in which something is moved or flipped so that the opposite side faces up, such as in the following example: The boy flipped the rock, turning it over to see what was on the other side.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Now we're turning over millions".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He's turning over index cards.

The New York Times - Books

They are just turning over the money".

The New York Times

Then he surrendered, turning over his rifle and two grenades.

The New York Times

Meanwhile, Germany is resisting turning over the money.

The New York Times

By 1986 Esprit was turning over US $800m annually.

Independent

"I'm turning over every rock looking for scholarships," she said.

The New York Times

CEOs have been turning over like never before.

The Economist

THE timber industry is turning over a new leaf.

The Economist

Turning over Czechoslovakia to the Nazis is another matter".

The New York Times

"I am planning to return like Christ in the temple, turning over the tables, turning over this conceptualism!

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a change in strategy or approach, use "turning over a new leaf" to convey a fresh start.

Common error

Avoid using "turning over" when you mean simply "turning". "Turning over" implies a complete rotation or change in orientation. For example, say "turning the page", not "turning over the page" unless you mean flipping it completely.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "turning over" is as a present participle of the phrasal verb "turn over". It often acts as part of a continuous verb tense, indicating an ongoing action, as demonstrated in the Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "turning over" is a versatile verb phrase with multiple meanings, ranging from physical actions to metaphorical transitions. It's considered grammatically correct and enjoys widespread use across diverse contexts. The phrase's versatility allows it to express physical manipulation, change, and even disapproval, as highlighted by Ludwig's examples. Its neutral register makes it suitable for both formal and informal settings. Remember to use "turning over" when there's a complete rotation or change in orientation and consider using "turning" for a simple rotation, according to Ludwig AI.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

flipping over

Focuses more on the physical action of flipping something.

inverting

Emphasizes the act of reversing the position or order.

reversing

Highlights the action of going in the opposite direction or order.

overturning

Implies a more forceful or disruptive action of turning something over.

handing over

Focuses on the act of transferring possession or control.

submitting

Emphasizes the act of presenting something for consideration or approval.

delivering

Highlights the action of bringing something to a specific place or person.

reconsidering

Implies a thoughtful review or re-evaluation of something.

reassessing

Focuses on the act of evaluating something again.

reviewing

Highlights a critical examination of something.

FAQs

How can I use "turning over" in a sentence?

You can use "turning over" to describe a physical action, like "He was "flipping over" the burger on the grill". Or you can use it metaphorically to suggest a change, like "She's "turning over a new leaf"".

What does it mean to say someone is "turning over in their grave"?

This expression means that a deceased person would be extremely displeased or outraged by a current event or situation. It implies the person's values or principles are being violated. For example, "Our forefathers must be "turning over in their graves"".

What can I say instead of "turning over a new leaf"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "making a fresh start", "starting anew", or "changing your ways". Each option offers a slightly different nuance.

Is it correct to say "turning over the page" when you simply mean turning it?

While commonly used, "turning over the page" is technically incorrect if you only intend to turn the page to the next one. "Turning the page" is the more accurate phrase. "Turning over" suggests flipping it completely.