tip the scales

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tip the scales" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where something causes a significant change which results in a tipping point. For example: "Justice must be served to ensure balance in the world, and it is up to us to tip the scales in its favor."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Carina helped tip the scales.

The New York Times

That might tip the scales.

The New York Times - Tech

But they can tip the scales.

The New York Times

He knew how race could tip the scales.

The New York Times

Each side complains that the others tip the scales.

The New York Times

Clearly, this cash advantage did not tip the scales.

The New York Times

Sarah Tynan sang celestially, but such a minuscule role could not tip the scales overall.

The Guardian - Music

The court is divided about school vouchers too; O'Connor's views will probably tip the scales.

The New York Times - Magazine

Mr. Warchus's production is the first to consciously and brutally tip the scales toward sabotage.

The New York Times

Alumni aren't likely to tip the scales in borderline cases, either.

The New York Times

Maybe Obama could be what it takes to tip the scales".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ this phrase to highlight a turning point or a decisive moment, especially when discussing competitive scenarios or decision-making processes.

Common error

Avoid using "tip the scales" when describing minor influences. This phrase is best reserved for situations where the impact is substantial and clearly decisive, not merely incremental.

Linguistic Context

The idiomatic phrase "tip the scales" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe an action that decisively changes a situation or outcome. As Ludwig AI states, it's used to describe when something causes a significant change resulting in a tipping point. Ludwig examples showcase this phrase in contexts ranging from political campaigns to personal decisions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tip the scales" is a versatile idiomatic phrase used to describe a decisive influence on a previously balanced situation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in news and media. Its purpose is to highlight a turning point or a significant impact. While the phrase is generally neutral in register, it's best reserved for situations where the influence is substantial, not merely incremental. By understanding these nuances, writers can effectively use "tip the scales" to add emphasis and clarity to their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tilt the balance

Changes the verb from "tip" to "tilt" and replaces "scales" with "balance", maintaining the overall meaning of influencing a decision or outcome.

swing the decision

Replaces the metaphor of scales with the concept of swinging a decision, indicating a shift in favor of one option.

influence the outcome

Focuses on the result of influencing a situation, using more direct language to convey the impact on the final result.

sway the vote

Specifically refers to influencing a voting decision, indicating a change in opinion or preference.

affect the result

A more general phrase that indicates having an impact on the final outcome, without specifying the method of influence.

change the equation

Implies that a new factor or influence has altered the existing circumstances, leading to a different result.

alter the course

Suggests a significant change in direction or progress, influencing the ultimate destination or goal.

be the deciding factor

Highlights the importance of a particular element in determining the final result, emphasizing its decisive role.

give the edge

Indicates providing an advantage or slight superiority that leads to success or victory.

break the tie

Specifically refers to resolving a situation where two sides are equally balanced, leading to a clear winner.

FAQs

How can I use "tip the scales" in a sentence?

Use "tip the scales" to indicate that something has decisively changed a situation that was previously balanced or uncertain. For example, "The new evidence could "tilt the balance" in the trial."

What can I say instead of "tip the scales"?

You can use alternatives like "influence the outcome", "be the deciding factor", or "swing the decision depending on the context.

Is it better to say "tip the scales" or "tilt the scales"?

Both "tip the scales" and "tilt the scales" are correct and commonly used. They have virtually identical meanings, referring to a decisive influence on a situation.

What does it mean to "tip the scales" in someone's favor?

To "tip the scales" in someone's favor means to do something that improves their chances of success or winning, often in a situation where the outcome was previously uncertain. This action gives them an advantage over others.