How to Pronounce "turn tail"
expression
ˈtɝn/ /ˈteɪɫ
TURN-TAYL
tˈɜːn/ /tˈeɪl
TURN-TAYL
Definition
To run away quickly, especially because you are scared or defeated. Often used when someone leaves a situation to avoid trouble or danger.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈtɝn/ /ˈteɪɫ
British English
tˈɜːn/ /tˈeɪl
Simplified Pronunciation
US
TURN-TAYL
UK
TURN-TAYL
Listen in Context
The rabbit turned tail and ran when it saw the fox.
He turned tail as soon as trouble started.
The soldiers turned tail when they saw the enemy.
When the boss got angry, the interns all turned tail and disappeared.