turn out — attend an event
phrasal verbB2IELTS 6+neutralcommon
to go to a place or event, especially in large numbers.
Say it like a native
Textbook A substantial number of attendees were present at the rally.
Native 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.
Pattern: turn out (for/to) + event
In use
- Thousands of fans turned out for the concert.daily life
- Many local residents turned out to support the charity run last weekend.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ Thousands turned out the protest.
✓ Thousands turned out for the protest.
People 'turn out FOR' an event.
Common collocations
turn out for— for the match, in force, in numbers, to vote
Don't confuse it
'Turn out' suggests a crowd; 'show up' can be for one person.
Related
- turn out (prove to be) — Another meaning of 'turn out' is 'prove to be'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.