in turn

Definitions

1. 1

   One after the other

   One after the other; one at a time; in succession; successively.

   • The teacher answered the students each in turn.
   • Each member of the group, in turn, rose to share a personal story, until nearly everyone in the room had spoken.
   • Eventually, each of the countries in turn would be brought to submission by the invading force.
2. 2

   In due order

   In due order; in proper sequence; in a determined or measured sequence, as a waiting line or queue.

   • You are next in turn to bat.
   • The boy was next in turn to sit on Santa's lap.
3. 3

   In response

   In response; in return.

   • The musical ambassadors finished their performance, and the local musicians in turn played for them a traditional ballad.
   • As was the case with the "Merchant Navy" locomotives, some of these features have proved troublesome, and this in turn at times has reflected on performance as well as on maintenance.
4. ›+ 1 more definitionshow fewer

   1. 4

      Having a relationship sequentially comparable to one just mentioned

      Having a relationship sequentially comparable to one just mentioned; accordingly or similarly, with respect to sequence, precedence, or hierarchy.

      • The vassals were subject to their lords, who in turn were subject to barons or kings.
      • My car was hit by a truck, which in turn was hit by the van.
      • Mr. X leaked the secret to Mr. Y who in turn leaked it to Mr. Z.

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