Turn, Turn, Turn Trivia Quiz

Answer:

This is one of those words with multiple meanings, both denotative and connotative. This quiz is only considering some of the ways it is used as a verb.

The primary definition (first entry) in the dictionary I consulted says it refers to circular motion around a central point or axis. The correct answers are all related to this definition, but they are not synonyms of each other, as they apply to various specific situations in which the more generic word turn could be used.

To circle means to move in a plane around a central point, maintaining a constant distance from that point, so as to produce a circular path. If the circular movement is not confined to a plane, it may be described as spiraling (producing a shape that resembles an extended spring). If the spiral does not maintain a constant radius (size of the circle), then it might be described as a screwing movement, referring to the way a metal screw changes radius to form a point. Gyrating refers to rapid circling or spiraling; it is also used to describe rapid dance movements, often involving circular motion of the hips.

The action of turning a metal screw around its centre so as to force it into the material in which it is to be embedded, or screwing it in, is an example of an object moving so that any point on its exterior forms a circle, but the actual object stays in place. This sense of turning in a circle is also evoked by saying that a ballerina is pirouetting onstage (keeping the centre of her body in place while she spins or pivots), or that the pattern of day and night is caused by the Earth rotating on its axis. With regard to the Earth, we say that it revolves around the Sun, as it moves in its orbit (let's just ignore the fact that it is slightly elliptical, not perfectly circular). Something that just revolves is moving in a circle - the blades of a fan may be said to revolve as it operates.

When you apply a torsional (twisting) force to an object, you are trying to make it move in a circular fashion. If significant force is needed (say, to remove a lid that is firmly stuck to a jar), you may describe it as a wrenching force. Special tools, called wrenches or spanners, may be used to assist in the application of more force.

When someone turns around to scan their surroundings, they may be said to swivel, wheel or whirl around. A gymnast may roll (as in a somersault) or wheel (as in a cartwheel) as they perform a routine.

The incorrect options are synonyms that relate to some of the other common uses of turn. These include changing direction, without implying a circular motion (bend, curve, diverge, veer); changing nature (become, convert, remake, remake, transform); changing to become unpleasant or disagreeable (curdle, sour, spoil, nauseate); changing to be inside out or upside down (invert).

Your homework is to write a sentence using the word turn in each of these senses. I hope that doesn't turn you against me!