turn away

T

turn away (phrasal verb)
/tɜrn əˈweɪ/

Meaning

• To deny access, help, or participation to someone.
• To look away or avoid eye contact, often due to discomfort or disinterest.
• To shift focus or change the course of movement away from something.
• To decline an offer, request, or plea, often firmly.
• To force or encourage someone to leave a place or situation.

Example Sentences

1. The security guard turned away the visitors who arrived after closing time.
2. She turned away to avoid making eye contact with the stranger.
3. She turned away in embarrassment when she tripped on the sidewalk.
4. The restaurant was full, so they had to turn away new customers.
5. He turned away from his old habits and started a healthier lifestyle.

Origin and History

The phrase “turn away” is a combination of the verb “turn” and the adverb “away.” The verb “turn” originates from Middle English turnen, derived from late Old English turnian, meaning “to rotate” or “revolve.” This traces back to Old French torner or turner, and ultimately to Latin tornare, meaning “to polish” or “to turn on a lathe.” The adverb “away” comes from Old English aweg, meaning “from this place” or “off.” The combination of these words to form “turn away” has been used since at least the 13th century, often meaning “to refuse admittance or acceptance to.”

Theories on the Origin of “Turn Away”

While the exact origin of the phrase is not definitively documented, several theories provide insight into its development:

1. Literal Physical Action – One plausible theory is that “turn away” originated from the literal action of turning one’s body or face away from someone or something, indicating refusal or rejection. This physical gesture would naturally evolve into a verbal expression signifying denial or dismissal.
2. Biblical Influence – The phrase may have religious origins, reflecting the act of turning away from sin or wrongdoing. Various ancient texts emphasize the concept of turning away from evil, suggesting a moral or spiritual refusal.
3. Old English and Latin Roots – The components of the phrase have deep linguistic roots. “Turn” and “away” existed separately in early forms of English and Latin before merging in Middle English, leading to its present-day meaning.

Earliest Printed Records

The phrase “turn away” appears in English texts as early as the 13th century. The earliest documented usage conveyed the meaning of rejecting entry or denying assistance, a sense that remains common today. Over time, its usage expanded to include averting one’s gaze, repelling someone, or diverting attention.

Synonyms

• send away – to dismiss or reject someone.
• shut out – to deny access or entry.
• turn down – to refuse or reject.
• wave off – to dismiss or refuse with a gesture.

Phrasal Verbs