Phrase: "turn on a dime"
Meaning: The phrase "turn on a dime" means to change direction very quickly and easily. It often refers to something that can move or change course with great agility, similar to how a small coin (a dime) can be easily turned in a small space.
Usage Instructions: You can use this phrase when talking about vehicles, animals, or even people who can change direction quickly. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone who is adaptable or can change their mind quickly.
Example: - "My little subcompact car can turn on a dime, making it easy to navigate through the busy city streets."
Advanced Usage: - In a business context, you might say, "Our team can turn on a dime when new information comes in, allowing us to adapt to changing market conditions."
Word Variants: The phrase "turn on a dime" does not have standard variants, but you can use it in different tenses: - "He turned on a dime." - "They are able to turn on a dime."
Different Meaning:While "turn on a dime" primarily refers to changing direction, it can also describe someone’s ability to quickly change their thoughts or opinions. For example: - "She can turn on a dime when discussing her plans; one moment she wants to travel, and the next she prefers to stay home."
Synonyms: - Change direction quickly - Pivot sharply - Shift gears
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: The phrase itself is idiomatic, meaning it is a common expression that conveys a particular meaning not directly related to the individual words.