Turn Up Idiom – Meaning and Example Usage in Sentences
Introduction: The Intriguing World of Idioms
Hello, English enthusiasts! Idioms are the spice of any language, and today, we’re exploring the captivating ‘Turn Up’ idiom. Often used in casual conversations, this phrase has a multitude of meanings. Let’s dive in!
Origin Story: Tracing the Roots
Like many idioms, ‘Turn Up’ has its origins in nautical terms. In sailing, ‘turning up’ referred to bringing a ship closer to the wind. Over time, this phrase evolved, taking on new meanings in everyday language.
Meaning #1: To Appear or Arrive
One of the most common uses of ‘Turn Up’ is to describe someone’s arrival. For example, ‘John said he’d turn up at the party.’ It’s a versatile phrase that can be used in both formal and informal settings.
Meaning #2: Unexpected Occurrence
Imagine you’re at a concert, and your favorite artist makes a surprise appearance. You could exclaim, ‘Wow, I didn’t expect them to turn up!’ Here, ‘turn up’ signifies an unexpected event.
Meaning #3: Increase in Volume or Intensity
In music, ‘turning up the volume’ is a familiar concept. Similarly, in everyday language, ‘turn up’ can be used to describe an increase in intensity. For instance, ‘The argument turned up a notch.’
Meaning #4: To Discover or Find
When you finally locate your misplaced keys, you can say, ‘I turned them up in the drawer.’ This usage of ‘turn up’ implies finding something after a search.
Meaning #5: To Attend or Participate
If you’re invited to a conference, you might say, ‘I’ll definitely turn up for it.’ Here, ‘turn up’ signifies attending or being present at an event.
Conclusion: The Versatility of ‘Turn Up’
From arrivals to discoveries, the ‘Turn Up’ idiom is a true chameleon in the English language. By understanding its various meanings, you’ll be able to navigate conversations with ease. So, the next time you hear someone say, ‘Turn up the heat,’ you’ll know it’s not just about adjusting the temperature. Happy learning, and until next time!