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in turn

in turn idiom

Also, in turns. In the proper order or in sequence; also, one at a time. For example, Each generation in turn must deal with the same budget problems, or Someone must be awake at all times, so let's sleep in turns. [Late 1500s] Also see out of turn; take turns.

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.