Turn off the lights.

Meaning: This means to make the lights stop working so that they don't give light anymore.

Choice of Words: The verb turn means to move or cause something to move around an axis or pivot. Off indicates a state of inactivity or cessation. Lights refer to devices that produce artificial illumination. Together, "Turn off the lights" instructs someone to stop the lights from shining.

Alternative Expressions

Make the lights dark.

Meaning: This means to make the lights give out less light. It's like saying, Please make the lights not as bright as they are now.

Choice of Words: Make means to cause something to happen or exist. Dark means having little or no light. Lights are devices that give out light. When you put them together, "Make the lights dark" is a command asking someone to change the lights so that they give out less light.

Switch off the lamps.

Meaning: This means to make the lamps stop giving out light. It's like saying, Please make the lamps not work anymore.

Choice of Words: Switch means to change something from one state to another. Off means to stop something from working or being active. Lamps are devices that give out light. When you put them together, "Switch off the lamps" is a command asking someone to change the lamps so that they stop giving out light.

Related Expressions