The phrasal verb "turn on" is widely used in informal speech but can also appear in formal contexts depending on the meaning intended. Informally, it is commonly employed to refer to activating or powering on a device or machine, such as "turn on the lights" or "turn on the computer." This usage is straightforward and can appear in everyday spoken conversation as well as in formal instructions or technical documents. "Turn on" also has a more idiomatic usage, where it denotes causing someone to become interested or sexually aroused, as in "He knows how to turn on the charm." This meaning is usually seen more in informal or conversational contexts. There is also a context where "turn on" means to suddenly attack or criticize someone, which can be either verbal or physical. This usage usually appears in informal settings or contexts where there is a narrative or story being told. Overall, "turn on" is a versatile phrasal verb with meanings that vary greatly based on contextual cues.
A2
Beginner
1. To switch something to an operational or active state.
Please turn on the lights when you enter the room.
She turned on the TV to watch her favorite show.
2. To cause someone to become interested or excited, often used in a sexual context.
The way he talked about art really turned her on.
Some people are turned on by intellectual conversations.