the tables have turned

USAGE SUMMARY

"the tables have turned" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to suggest that a situation has reversed or changed dramatically. For example, "John was the frontrunner for the job, but the tables have turned and now Sarah has a better chance of getting the position."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 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

On "Reputation," the tables have turned.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the tables have turned" to emphasize a significant and often unexpected reversal in a situation. This phrase is best suited when the previous state is well-known or has already been established.

Common error

Avoid using "the tables have turned" for minor or insignificant changes. The phrase implies a complete or substantial shift in circumstances, not just a slight adjustment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the tables have turned" functions as an idiomatic expression used to indicate that a situation has been reversed, with the party that was once at a disadvantage now holding the upper hand. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

"The tables have turned" is a common idiomatic expression that signifies a reversal of fortune or circumstances, often unexpectedly. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and appropriate for diverse contexts, particularly in news and media where shifts in power dynamics are frequently reported. While applicable in both formal and informal settings, it's crucial to ensure the situation warrants such a strong declaration of change. Utilizing this phrase effectively involves understanding the scope and magnitude of the reversal to avoid misapplication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

roles have reversed

Focuses on the change in roles between different parties.

the situation is now reversed

Highlights that the entire situation has changed to its opposite.

fortune has shifted

Emphasizes the change in luck or advantage.

the tide has turned

Uses a nautical metaphor to indicate a change in momentum or direction.

power dynamics have changed

Specifically refers to a shift in power relationships.

circumstances have been inverted

Highlights that now the circumstances are the opposite of how they used to be.

the script has flipped

Emphasizes a sudden and dramatic change in the expected course of events.

the pendulum has swung the other way

Signifies a shift from one extreme to another.

the balance of power has altered

Indicates a redistribution of influence or control.

what goes around comes around

Expresses the idea of karma or reciprocal justice.

FAQs

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

Use "the tables have turned" to indicate a reversal of a previous situation. For example, "The underdog team was losing for most of the game, but "the tables have turned" in the final quarter and they won".

What's a less common synonym for "the tables have turned"?

A less common, more formal synonym is "circumstances have been inverted". This phrase emphasizes that the situation is now the complete opposite of what it was before.

Which is correct, "the tables have turned" or "the table has turned"?

"The tables have turned" is the correct idiomatic expression. "The table has turned" is grammatically incorrect in this context, unless you're literally talking about someone flipping a table.

What's the difference between "the tables have turned" and "what goes around comes around"?

"The tables have turned" indicates a reversal of a specific situation, whereas "what goes around comes around" implies a sense of karmic justice or eventual retribution.