turn to someone
/tɜːn tuː ˈsʌmwʌn/
Meaning
This phrasal verb means to go to someone for help, advice, comfort, or support, especially during a difficult time. It implies a high level of trust in the person you are approaching. It is a very common expression in personal relationships, counseling, and crisis situations.
Examples
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When I was going through a tough time, I knew I could turn to my sister.
When I was going through a tough time, I knew I could turn to my sister.
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Many students turn to their teachers when they feel overwhelmed by exams.
Many students turn to their teachers when they feel overwhelmed by exams.
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She had no one else to turn to when she lost her job.
She had no one else to turn to when she lost her job.
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It is important to have trusted friends you can turn to in a crisis.
It is important to have trusted friends you can turn to in a crisis.
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He decided to turn to a professional therapist to help manage his anxiety.
He decided to turn to a professional therapist to help manage his anxiety.
Common Mistakes
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✗ I turned at my father for financial help.
✓ I turned to my father for financial help.
The correct preposition is 'to', indicating the direction of your request for help.
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✗ She has no one to turn.
✓ She has no one to turn to.
Do not drop the preposition 'to' at the end of the clause; 'turn to' is a phrasal verb that requires the preposition to complete its meaning.
Related Expressions
Practice
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When life gets difficult, who do you ___ for support?
💡 Go to for help or comfort.
Show answer
turn to
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He didn't know who to ___ when his business started failing.
💡 Seek assistance from.
Show answer
turn to