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Meaning trap

turn out

attend an event

to go to a place or event, especially in large numbers.

phrasal verbB2common

Don't mix these meanings

Same phrase, different job.

attend an event

to go to a place or event, especially in large numbers.

turn out (prove to be)

Another meaning of 'turn out' is 'prove to be'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.

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Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • Thousands of fans turned out for the concert.daily life
  • Many local residents turned out to support the charity run last weekend.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: turn out (for/to) + event

WrongThousands turned out the protest.

RightThousands turned out for the protest.

People 'turn out FOR' an event.

Patternturn out (for/to) + event

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff A substantial number of attendees were present at the rally.

Natural A huge crowd turned out for the rally.

'Turn out' is the natural verb for people showing up in numbers; 'a substantial number of attendees were present' is report-speak.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • turn out for
    for the matchin forcein numbersto vote

Don't confuse it

'Turn out' suggests a crowd; 'show up' can be for one person.

Try it in Daily Speak →