turn the corner: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘turn the corner’ mean?

The idiom "turn the corner" means to start making progress or improving after a difficult or challenging situation.

Idiom Explorer

Unveiling the Mystery

In addition to the idiom "turn the corner," there are several related idioms that convey similar ideas of progress and positive change. These idioms include "turn a corner," "take a turn for the better," "turn the tide," "turn around," and "take a turn." Let's explore each of these idioms and their connection to the concept of turning the corner.

The idiom "turn a corner" is closely related to "turn the corner." It signifies a significant change or improvement in a situation. Just as someone turning a corner moves away from one path and onto another, "turning a corner" suggests leaving behind a difficult or stagnant situation and moving towards a more positive outcome. This idiom emphasizes the idea of making progress and finding a new direction.

"Take a turn for the better" is another idiom that reflects the concept of turning the corner. It implies a positive shift or improvement in a situation. When someone's circumstances "take a turn for the better," they experience a change for the positive. This idiomatic expression highlights the idea of progress and a more favorable outcome.

The turning corner brought a change in direction and progress.

"Turn the tide" is yet another related idiom. It refers to a significant change or reversal of a situation, particularly in relation to a difficult or unfavorable circumstance. The idiom suggests that just as a tide can turn, so can the outcome of a situation. This expression conveys the idea of a decisive shift in favor of a more positive or successful outcome.

"Turn around" is a commonly used idiom that also shares similarities with "turn the corner." It signifies a change in direction or a reversal of a situation. When someone or something "turns around," they make a significant change for the better. This idiom conveys the concept of overcoming challenges and achieving a positive outcome.

Lastly, we have the idiom "take a turn." This expression suggests a change in direction or a shift in circumstances. When someone or something "takes a turn," they experience a change, which can be positive or negative depending on the context. This idiom emphasizes the idea of a shift or transition in a situation.

The "turn the corner" idiom and its related idioms convey a sense of progress, positive change, and overcoming challenges. Each idiom encompasses the idea of leaving behind a difficult or stagnant situation and moving towards a more favorable outcome. Whether it is "turning a corner," "taking a turn for the better," "turning the tide," "turning around," or "taking a turn," these expressions all capture the essence of growth and improvement.

The idiom "turn the corner" is a versatile expression that signifies progress and positive change. It can be related to other idioms such as "turn a corner," "take a turn for the better," "turn the tide," "turn around," and "take a turn." Each of these idioms emphasizes the idea of overcoming challenges, finding a new direction, and experiencing a change for the better. While the exact origin of the phrase "turn the corner" may remain uncertain, its meaning and usage in the English language are well-established.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom *turn the corner* can be used in a sentence:

  1. After months of therapy, John finally turned the corner and started to regain his mobility.
  2. The company was struggling financially, but it managed to turn the corner and increase its profits.
  3. After a difficult period of unemployment, Sarah turned the corner and found a job that she loves.

More "Transition" idioms