TURN UP

National Parks

📖 Definition

Turn up is a versatile phrasal verb used to describe the appearance of someone or something, often unexpectedly, or to increase the volume or intensity of something.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

Turn up is a versatile phrasal verb used to describe the appearance of someone or something, often unexpectedly, or to increase the volume or intensity of something.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
Yes
The object can appear between 'turn' and 'up.'
Register
Neutral
It is used in both formal and informal settings.
Transitive
Yes
The verb can take a direct object.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple turn up I hope the missing document will turn up soon.
Past Simple turned up The lost keys turned up in the garage.
Present Continuous turning up Are you turning up the volume on the radio?
Present Perfect have turned up Several lost emails have turned up in my inbox.

💡 When to Use

Finding something unexpected
Use when something or someone appears unexpectedly or is found after being lost.
Example: "The letter turned up after weeks of searching."
Increasing intensity
Use when referring to increasing the volume or intensity of sound or light.
Example: "Please turn up the heater; it's getting cold."
Arriving at a place
Use to describe someone who arrives at a place, often unexpectedly or without prior notice.
Example: "She turned up at the party late but with a big smile."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Wrong positioning of object
❌ Wrong: He turned quickly up the music.
✅ Correct: He turned up the music quickly.
💡 Tip: Place the object between 'turn' and 'up' for clarity.
Using intransitively inappropriately
❌ Wrong: He was expecting turn up.
✅ Correct: He was expecting something to turn up.
💡 Tip: Use with an object or context for clarity.
Confusing with 'show up'
❌ Wrong: I waited for her to turn up the event.
✅ Correct: I waited for her to show up at the event.
💡 Tip: Use 'show up' for appearances at events.
Practice

TURN UP - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

appear show up

Antonyms

disappear

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"After days of searching, the missing ring ______ in the sofa cushions."

showed
turn up
found
gone

"When opportunities turn up unexpectedly, embrace them; life's greatest moments often come when least anticipated."

In Context

In the year 1922, the archaeologist Howard Carter embarked on an expedition in Egypt funded by Lord Carnarvon. After years of relentless searching, nothing substantial seemed to turn up, and funds were running low. Carter was determined, convinced that the Valley of the Kings held more secrets. Against the odds, he persevered. Then, one fateful day, as Carter and his team excavated once more, something finally turned up. They discovered the steps to what would become one of the most significant archaeological finds in history: the tomb of Tutankhamun. The magnitude of this discovery could not be overstated; artifacts, treasures, and the mummified body of the young pharaoh himself had remained undisturbed for over 3,000 years. As news of the find spread, scholars and spectators from around the world turned up at the site to witness history being unearthed. This monumental discovery not only provided invaluable insights into ancient Egyptian civilization but also reignited global interest in archaeology and Egyptology. Through persistence, Carter proved that even when immediate results don't turn up, perseverance can lead to unparalleled success and recognition.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Turn Up

What is the origin of turn up?

+
The phrasal verb 'turn up' originates from Middle English, where 'turn' signified rotation or movement and 'up' indicated appearance or increase. Historically, these words were combined to express unexpected appearances or increases, evolving into the versatile verb used today.

Can turn up be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
Yes, 'turn up' is a neutral phrasal verb suitable for both formal and informal contexts. In formal writing, it can describe appearances or discoveries, while in informal speech, it's often utilized to talk about arriving or increasing volume.

What is the difference between turn up and appear?

+
'Turn up' usually involves unexpected appearances, often suggesting a prior absence, while 'appear' is more general, simply indicating something has become visible or present without connotations of surprise or prior absence.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Explore more phrasal verbs in our dictionary:

trample overtry outturn towatch outwear down
Browse All National Parks Phrasal Verbs
National Parks Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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