Turn out

Meaning

The idiom "turn out" means to come or appear in a certain place or at a certain time, especially for a particular purpose. It can also mean to produce a particular result or outcome, or to be revealed or exposed. Figuratively, it can mean to reveal the true nature of someone or something.

Usage

• I always turn out early for work to avoid traffic. (literal)
• The company turned out a record-breaking profit last quarter. (literal)
• The investigation turned up some shocking revelations about the politician. (figurative)
• She always turns out great when it comes to party planning. (literal)
• The new CEO's leadership has turned around the company's fortunes. (literal)

Roots and History

The origin of "turn out" is uncertain, but it may come from the phrase "to turn out one's pockets", which meant to reveal or produce something. It has been used since at least the 16th century, as seen in Shakespeare's plays. In contemporary language, the figurative meaning of "turn out" has become more common and can be applied to people or situations that are revealed or exposed.

Synonyms in English

• Show up
• Arrive
• Materialize
• Present oneself
• Yield

Synonyms in other languages

• French: se présenter (to present oneself)
• Spanish: aparecer (to appear)
• Italian: manifestarsi (to reveal oneself)
• Portuguese: apresentar-se (to present oneself)
• German: sich zeigen/offenbarn (to reveal oneself)

Similar Idioms

• the best is yet to come

• take stock

• to the core