The phrase "turned pale" is often used to describe someone's reaction to a shocking or scary event. The spelling of this phrase can be explained using IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) phonetic transcription. "Turned" is pronounced as /təːnd/, with a schwa sound for the first syllable and a long 'e' sound for the second syllable. "Pale" is pronounced as /peɪl/, with a long 'a' sound for the first syllable and a soft 'l' sound for the second syllable. Together, the phrase is pronounced as /təːnd peɪl/.
"Turned pale" is a phrase that depicts a change in the complexion or skin tone of an individual. This term specifically highlights the act of suddenly becoming pale or losing color in the face or skin. It typically refers to an observable transformation resulting from a strong emotional reaction, shock, fear, or illness.
When someone "turns pale," it means that their complexion becomes noticeably lighter or ashen in comparison to their normal state. The person's skin tone may appear faded, lacking the usual rosy or healthy coloration, and instead, reveal a whitish or grayish hue. This change in coloration can be particularly noticeable around the cheeks, lips, or entire face.
The phrase "turned pale" suggests that the alteration in skin tone happened abruptly and is typically an involuntary reaction. It often conveys a visual representation of the person's emotional or physical state. For instance, feeling frightened, surprised, or experiencing a sudden shock can cause an individual's face to "turn pale." Similarly, it may serve as a symptom of illness, such as low blood pressure or anemia.
In summary, "turned pale" refers to the instantaneous loss of color in the face or skin due to emotions, shock, fear, or health conditions, indicating a significant alteration in the complexion, usually to a lighter, whitish, or grayish tone.
The expression "turned pale" does not have a specific etymology of its own since it is composed of two separate words, each with its own origin:
1. Turned: The verb "turn" originates from the Old English word "tyrnan", and it evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "turnaną". The term has been used for centuries to describe the act of changing direction, position, or appearance.
2. Pale: The adjective "pale" has its roots in the Old English word "pāl", which can be traced back to the Latin word "pallidus", meaning "pale, pallid". This Latin term can further be linked to the Proto-Indo-European root "pel-" or "pal-", which signifies a light color or lack of intensity.