tables have turned

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tables have turned" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a reversal in circumstances, such as when an underdog suddenly becomes successful. For example, "After all the hard work he put in, it was satisfying to see the tables have turned in his favor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"The tables have turned".

The New York Times

But the tables have turned.

Independent

Now, the tables have turned.

The New York Times

But now the tables have turned.

The Economist

HOW quickly the tables have turned.

The Economist

Now the tables have turned again.

The Economist

For Mr Rudd, the tables have turned.

Independent

"The tables have turned," he said.

The New York Times

But lately the tables have turned.

The New York Times

So, the tables have turned.

The Guardian - Opinion

The dinner tables have turned.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "tables have turned" to effectively illustrate a significant shift in power, status, or fortune. Ensure the context clearly indicates a prior state that is now reversed. This is particularly useful in narratives or analyses where demonstrating change is crucial.

Common error

Avoid using "tables have turned" when the situation has only slightly improved or changed. This idiom is most effective when there's been a dramatic and significant alteration of circumstances, not just a minor adjustment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tables have turned" functions as an idiomatic expression to denote a significant reversal of circumstances. This is confirmed by Ludwig's analysis, which identifies the phrase as correct and suitable for written English. The examples in Ludwig showcase its use in varied contexts, all highlighting a prior state that has been inverted.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tables have turned" is a commonly used and grammatically sound idiom that effectively conveys a reversal of fortune or circumstances. Ludwig confirms its validity and common usage across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. When using this phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates a prior state that is now inverted. It's best suited for demonstrating significant changes rather than minor adjustments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

roles are reversed

This alternative focuses on the shift in roles between parties.

the situation is inverted

This highlights the inversion of the situation.

the tide has turned

This implies a change in momentum or advantage.

fortune has reversed

This emphasizes the change in luck or fortune.

positions are switched

This focuses on the swapping of positions.

the boot is on the other foot

This is an idiomatic expression with a similar meaning.

power dynamics have shifted

This highlights changes in power relationships.

the game has changed

This indicates a significant shift in the rules or conditions.

circumstances are altered

This is a more general way of saying things have changed.

the status quo has been upended

This focuses on the disruption of the previous state of affairs.

FAQs

How can I use "tables have turned" in a sentence?

You can use "tables have turned" to indicate a reversal of fortune or circumstances. For example, "After years of being the underdog, the "tables have turned" and now they are the leading company in the industry".

What's a similar phrase to "tables have turned"?

Alternatives include "roles are reversed", "the tide has turned", or "fortune has reversed" depending on the context.

Is "the tables turn" grammatically correct?

While "the tables turn" can be used, ""tables have turned"" is more commonly used to describe a completed reversal of circumstances.

What does it mean when someone says "the tables have turned"?

It means that a situation has changed, often dramatically, so that someone who was in a weak or losing position is now in a strong or winning position.