"Doth a turn" is a phrase commonly used in Shakespearean English to describe someone who has changed their mind or course of action. The word "doth" is a contraction of "do" and "thou", and is pronounced /dʌθ/ with emphasis on the first syllable. "Turn" is pronounced as /tɜːn/ with a long "u" sound as in "fur". Together, the phrase is pronounced /dʌθ ə tɜːn/, with a slight stress on the second syllable of "turn". Despite its archaic usage, the phrase can still be found in modern English literature and poetry.
"Doth a turn" is an idiomatic expression that has its roots in Middle English and Shakespearean language usage. It refers to someone's ability or act of making a sudden change in direction or taking a different path in their actions, behavior, or attitudes. This expression is primarily used in reference to individuals who display unexpected or surprising behavior, often deviating from their usual habits or patterns.
The word "doth" is an archaic form of the verb "do" used to refer to the third-person singular present tense. In this context, "doth" signifies the action of "doing" or "performing" the turn. The term "turn" here signifies a figurative or metaphorical shift, both in terms of physical movement and metaphorical change. It implies a transformation or alteration in one's course of action or previous behavior, resulting in a deviation from the expected or anticipated path.
The phrase "doth a turn" finds its origins in Shakespearean plays and was commonly used during the Elizabethan era. It is worth noting that this expression is now considered obsolete and outdated in modern English, as the verb "doth" and the specific usage of "doth a turn" have fallen out of common usage. However, its historical significance and usage in classical literature have contributed to its continued recognition and understanding.