The phrasal verb "turn over" is versatile and can function in both informal and formal contexts, albeit with varying frequency. In informal speech, it is often used to describe physical actions such as rotating an object (e.g., "turn over the page") or engine operations (e.g., "the car wouldn't turn over"). In business and professional settings, "turn over" can appear in formal documents to denote transferring responsibilities or ownership, such as "turn over the project to another team" or discussing business turnover, which refers to sales volume. It is also used in contexts involving law enforcement or security when someone is instructed to "turn over" belongings or documents, implying a legal or authoritative transfer. The versatility of this phrasal verb stems from its ability to describe actions of rotation, transfer, and change across different environments.
B1
Intermediate
1. To flip something so that the other side is facing upward, such as turning paper or a pancake.
She turned over the pancake to cook the other side.
He turned over the page to continue reading.
2. To transfer control, responsibility, or possession to another person or entity.
She decided to turn over the project to her assistant.
He turned over the keys of the car to its new owner.