we cannot turn

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we cannot turn" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are expressing an inability to change direction, opinion, or action. Example: "In this situation, we cannot turn back; we must move forward despite the challenges ahead."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We cannot turn back.

Independent

We cannot turn it away".

The Guardian

"We cannot turn back these forces.

The New York Times

We cannot turn the clock back.

The Guardian

We cannot turn back those forces of integration.

The Washington Post

He added: "We cannot turn our backs on this crisis.

The Guardian

But we cannot turn back or postpone this battle".

The New York Times

"We cannot turn a blind eye to this," Medvedev said.

The Guardian - Opinion

We cannot turn our backs on these young women".

The Guardian

"America, we cannot turn back," Mr. Obama said.

The New York Times

"We cannot turn our backs on the Afghan people".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we cannot turn" to emphasize a firm decision or inability to change a course of action, especially when addressing a group or representing a collective stance.

Common error

Avoid using "we cannot turn" when expressing individual preferences or opinions. This phrase is better suited for collective decisions or unavoidable situations, not personal inclinations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we cannot turn" typically functions as a declaration of inability or unwillingness to alter a course of action, decision, or perspective. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage, supported by numerous examples indicating its role in conveying a firm stance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we cannot turn" is a versatile expression used to convey an inability or unwillingness to change a particular course or perspective. According to Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, it carries a neutral register and serves to assert a firm position. Alternatives include phrases like "we are unable to" or "there is no alternative". When using this phrase, ensure it reflects a collective decision or unavoidable situation rather than a personal preference.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

there's no turning back now

Idiomatic expression that underscores the irreversibility of a situation.

we're unable to revert

Focuses on the impossibility of reversing a situation or decision.

we're incapable of changing

Emphasizes the lack of capacity to alter something.

it's impossible for us to backtrack

Highlights the impossibility of going back on a decision or action.

we have no option to reverse

Stresses the lack of alternatives to undo something.

we must not deviate

Emphasizes the necessity to stay on the current path.

we are obliged to continue

Highlights the obligation to proceed forward.

we shouldn't look back

Advises against considering past actions or decisions.

we're bound to forge ahead

Emphasizes a commitment to moving forward despite difficulties.

we can only move forward

Focuses on the single option of progressing.

FAQs

How can I use "we cannot turn" in a sentence?

Use "we cannot turn" to express the impossibility of changing direction or reversing a decision. For example, "In light of the evidence, we cannot turn a blind eye to the injustice."

What's the difference between "we cannot turn back" and "we must continue"?

"We cannot turn back" emphasizes the impossibility of reversing a decision, while "we must continue" highlights the necessity to proceed forward regardless of circumstances.

What can I say instead of "we cannot turn"?

Alternatives include "we are unable to", "we cannot change", or "there is no alternative", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "we cannot turn a blind eye"?

Yes, "we cannot turn a blind eye" is a common idiom used to express that one must acknowledge and address a problem or issue rather than ignore it.