give a turn

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 manners, habits, and prevailing sentiments of women, have great influence on those of the society to which they belong, and generally give a turn to its character.

From Travels in China, Containing Descriptions, Observations, and Comparisons, Made and Collected in the Course of a Short Residence at the Imperial Palace of Yuen-Min-Yuen, and on a Subsequent Journey through the Country from Pekin to Canton by Barrow, John, Sir

He heard enough to give a turn to his thoughts; and it was with unaffected sorrow that he reflected how the lonely woman had been dependent upon the charity, as it seemed, of others.

From The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 15, No. 87, January, 1865 by Various

Gratian was at the helm, ready to give a turn to wheel, whilst his comrades with their hands on the cleats were preparing to ease off the sheets.

From An Antarctic Mystery by Hoey, Frances Cashel

Just give a turn or two to the engine and see if the winding gear's all right.

From Facing Death The Hero of the Vaughan Pit. A Tale of the Coal Mines by Henty, G. A. (George Alfred)

I knew that action would give a turn to his mood.

From Villette by Brontë, Charlotte