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Definitions

by turns

ADVERB
one after another
Synonyms
WEAK
alternately in succession one person at a time

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The book is by turns brilliant, provocative, digressive and dull—abounding in talent but confusingly at odds with itself.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 5, 2026

“Billy Preston: That’s the Way God Planned It” is, by turns, heartbreaking and inspirational.

From Salon • Feb. 20, 2026

All weekend long, the headlines out of Minneapolis have captured a moment that is by turns alarming and bizarre.

From Slate • Jan. 20, 2026

He suggested the central pair's friendship "rings false", adding: "What should be piercing, impassioned moments are by turns frivolous and sappy."

From BBC • Nov. 19, 2025

The blog had unveiled itself and shed its milk teeth; by turns, it surprised her, pleased her, left her behind.

From "Americanah" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie