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tourner — meaning in English: turn
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tourner
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neutral
very common
Usage
Native speakers often use 'tourner' in everyday conversations, such as when giving directions or describing the action of rotating an object. For instance, someone might say, 'Tournez à gauche' when instructing someone to turn left at a street corner, or 'Il faut tourner la clé dans la serrure,' meaning one needs to turn the key in the lock.
Synonyms & nuances
'Tourner' is often synonymous with 'virer' when discussing turns in driving contexts. However, 'virer' carries a more informal tone, typically used in casual conversations, while 'tourner' is more versatile and can be applied in both formal and informal situations, making it a safer choice for learners wanting to maintain clarity.
Culture
The word 'tourner' has its roots in the Latin word 'torner', which means 'to twist' or 'to turn'. In French cinema, 'tourner' also means 'to film', highlighting the connection between turning and capturing moments on camera, as in 'tourner un film' (to shoot a film). This dual meaning showcases how turning is integral not just in motion but also in the art of storytelling.
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