“Turn one’s back on” is an idiomatic expression that means to abandon, ignore, or reject someone or something, often in a way that is deliberate and final. It conveys the idea of turning away from a person, situation, or responsibility in order to detach oneself or show disinterest. This phrase often implies betrayal or lack of loyalty, as it suggests a conscious decision to disregard or walk away from something that once mattered. It can be used in both personal and professional contexts, and can also refer to situations where someone chooses not to act when they are needed.
Sample Sentences:
- She felt betrayed when her closest friend turned their back on her during the crisis.
- After years of dedication, he turned his back on the company when they refused to recognize his efforts.
- They were shocked when the charity organization turned its back on the community it was meant to support.
- He turned his back on the deal when he realized the risks outweighed the benefits.
- She had no choice but to turn her back on her old life after moving to a new country.
- The politician turned his back on his promises after securing the vote.
- He turned his back on the entire project, leaving his colleagues to figure out the next steps.
- After the argument, she turned her back on their friendship, refusing to speak again.
- It was difficult for him to turn his back on his family, but he knew he needed to move on.
- The company turned its back on the idea of expanding internationally due to economic instability.
Synonyms:
- Abandon
- Desert
- Reject
- Ignore
- Forsake
- Disown
- Neglect
- Walk away from
- Give up on
- Discard
Antonyms:
- Support
- Stand by
- Stick with
- Stay loyal
- Assist
- Help
- Commit to
- Encourage
- Remain faithful
- Back up
Phrasal Verbs:
- Turn away from (to stop giving attention or support to someone or something)
- Walk away from (to abandon or leave a situation or relationship)
- Give up on (to stop believing in or supporting someone or something)
- Let go of (to release attachment or responsibility for someone or something)
- Close the door on (to end or reject an opportunity or relationship)
Idiomatic Expressions:
- Wash one’s hands of (to disown responsibility or reject involvement)
- Turn a cold shoulder (to ignore or reject someone in a deliberately unfriendly way)
- Leave in the lurch (to abandon someone when they need help)
- Give the boot (to dismiss or reject someone abruptly)
- Close the book on (to end or put an end to something, often permanently)
- Give up on (to stop supporting or believing in someone or something)
- Shut the door on (to permanently reject or block something)
- Turn a blind eye (to deliberately ignore something or choose not to act on it)
- Leave someone hanging (to leave someone without help or resolution)
- Draw the line (to set a boundary, often implying that something will not be supported or tolerated any longer)