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to turn back
[phrase form: turn]
01
to return to a previous state or condition
Example
Despite her efforts to move forward, she could n't shake off her doubts and found herself turning back to old habits.
The peace talks seemed promising at first, but recent events have caused negotiations to turn back to hostility.
02
to set something to a previous state or setting
Example
The technician had to turn back the thermostat because the room was too warm.
I accidentally deleted some important files.
03
to go back along the same route one already covered
Example
The pilgrims turned back when they reached a restricted area.
The cyclists had to turn back because of a mechanical failure.
04
to set something to a previous state or setting, especially regarding time or a particular condition
Example
The technician had to turn back the thermostat because the room was too warm.
Can you please turn back the volume on the TV?
05
to force someone or something to go back toward where they came from, often with authority
Example
Due to the road closure, the police had to turn back hundreds of cars to divert traffic.
The border patrol turned back several migrants who attempted to cross the border illegally.
06
to prevent the advance of a danger or an enemy
Example
Despite their persistence, the border patrol successfully turned back those attempting to cross the border illegally.
The bouncer had to turn back individuals who did n't meet the entry requirements for the exclusive club.
07
to flip an item to reveal its opposite side or transform its appearance
Example
The tailor skillfully turned the jacket back to fix a seam.
The archaeologist carefully turned back the ancient parchment, revealing an additional layer of writing.
08
to change one's mind or undo something that has been done, said, or promised
Example
Once you've signed the contract, there's no turning back; you're committed to the terms and conditions.
The company decided to turn back on their initial decision to lay off employees after receiving backlash from the public.
