turn off — to stop a machine, device, or flow by using a switch or control
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: to stop a machine, device, or flow by using a switch or control
Pronunciation (IPA): /tɜːrn ɔːf/
Example Sentences
- My mom's karaoke singing really turns me off from family gatherings.
- Don't forget to turn off your phone during the movie, or you'll face angry popcorn throwers.
- She turned off the main road to avoid the traffic jam.
turn off
NOUN[/tɜːrn ɔːf/]
to stop a machine, device, or flow by using a switch or control
She reaches over to turn off the lamp before sleeping.
Turn off the lights, let the fire burn off the cold!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This phrasal verb combines Old English 'turnian' (to turn, rotate) and 'of' (away, off). It developed from the literal sense of 'to rotate something away' into the metaphorical meaning of stopping or deactivating something, particularly with mechanical or electrical devices.
Breakdown
turn (Old English 'turnian': to rotate or pivot) + off (Old English 'of': away, separation). The combination creates a phrasal verb where the particle 'off' modifies the action of turning to indicate cessation or disconnection.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My mom's karaoke singing really turns me off from family gatherings.”
“Don't forget to turn off your phone during the movie, or you'll face angry popcorn throwers.”
“She turned off the main road to avoid the traffic jam.”
“His constant bragging about his gym membership turned off all his colleagues.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.