turns on

USAGE SUMMARY

"turns on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that someone has initiated something, for example, that someone has switched an object on. For example: "Max turns on the TV and settles in for an evening of relaxation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

He turns on music.

The Washington Post

A great deal turns on this.

The Economist

A man turns on the lights.

The New Yorker

The debate often turns on money.

The Washington Post

She turns on a bit of attitude.

The New York Times - Magazine

That's what turns on the lights.

Huffington Post

What will the election turns on?

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

PCs' New Turn-On.

Forbes

The thing turned on.

The New York Times

Turn on state television.

The New York Times

Sylvia turned on her.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "turns on" to describe a change in attitude or behavior, ensure the context clearly indicates a shift or alteration in the subject's disposition.

Common error

Avoid using "turns on" to describe an object acting independently. For example, instead of saying "The computer turns on by itself", specify the cause, such as "The computer turns on when plugged in".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "turns on" primarily functions as a phrasal verb. It indicates the action of initiating or activating something, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples like "He turns on the light" or "She turns on the TV". It can also denote a point of dependence, where an outcome is contingent on a specific factor.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "turns on" is a versatile phrasal verb commonly used to describe the action of activating something or indicating a point of dependence. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. While prevalent in news, media, and general contexts, more formal alternatives may be suitable for academic or professional writing. When using "turns on", ensure clarity by avoiding its misuse with inanimate objects and considering the context to accurately convey activation or dependence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

switches on

Specifically refers to the action of using a switch to activate something.

activates

Focuses on the act of initiating or setting something in motion.

powers up

Focuses on supplying power to a device or system.

hinges on

Implies that the outcome or success greatly depends on a specific factor.

depends on

A more general way of expressing reliance or conditionality.

relies on

Similar to 'depends on' but can also imply trust or confidence.

is contingent on

Emphasizes the dependence of something on a particular condition or event.

is dependent on

Highlights the reliance of one thing on another.

becomes active

Emphasizes the state of becoming operational or functional.

attacks

Suggests an aggressive or confrontational action.

FAQs

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

You can use "turns on" to describe activating a device (e.g., "He "turns on the light""), or to indicate a shift in attitude or focus (e.g., "The debate "turns on money"").

What are some alternatives to "turns on"?

Alternatives include "activates", "switches on" for devices, or "depends on", "hinges on" when discussing conditions.

Is it correct to use "turns on" in a formal context?

Yes, "turns on" can be used in formal contexts when referring to something being activated or when an outcome ""depends on"" a particular factor. However, consider more precise alternatives like "activates" or "is contingent on" for added clarity.

What's the difference between "turns on" and "depends on"?

"Turns on" often implies activation or initiation, while "depends on" indicates reliance or conditionality. For instance, "He turns on the TV" means he activates it, whereas "The success of the project "depends on" funding" means funding is a necessary condition for success.