turn the tables

USAGE SUMMARY

"turn the tables" is a common phrase in written English, and it can be used any time you want to say that the balance of power or control has been reversed in some way.
For example: "After the debate, the audience's opinion of the two candidates had completely turned the tables - the underdog had suddenly become the front runner."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Now, Congress gets to turn the tables.

The New York Times

One last fact may turn the tables.

The New York Times

'Turn the tables,' she says.

The Guardian - Travel

Help America turn the tables".

The New York Times

But can that turn the tables?

The New York Times - Arts

It's too late to turn the tables.

The New York Times - Sports

Tennessee is ready to turn the tables.

The New York Times

So it's time to turn the tables.

The Guardian

Jung said she resolved to turn the tables on Park.

The Washington Post

Is it possible to turn the tables with a vaccine?

Nature

The aim is to turn the tables on the Tories.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "turn the tables" when you want to express a complete reversal of fortune or a shift in advantage from one party to another. Ensure the context makes it clear who initially had the advantage and who now has it.

Common error

Avoid using "turn the tables" for minor shifts in momentum. This idiom implies a significant change in the balance of power, not just a temporary advantage.

Linguistic Context

The idiomatic phrase "turn the tables" functions as a verb phrase. It signifies a reversal of circumstances, where a previously disadvantaged party gains an advantage. The AI from Ludwig confirms its correct grammatical usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Science

2%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The idiomatic phrase "turn the tables" is a versatile and frequently used expression, primarily found in news and media contexts. It accurately describes a reversal of fortune or power dynamics. The AI from Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted. To use it effectively, ensure the context makes clear who initially held the advantage. While the idiom is relatively common, it's important to use it to describe the right context of a significant change and not use it for minor shifts. Related phrases, such as "reverse the roles", "gain the upper hand", and "shift the balance of power", offer nuanced ways to express similar concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reverse the roles

Focuses on switching positions or functions between parties.

gain the upper hand

Emphasizes achieving a position of control or advantage.

shift the balance of power

Highlights the change in influence or control between entities.

get one's revenge

Implies retaliation and a reversal of fortune for the wronged party.

settle the score

Suggests evening out a past grievance or competition.

even the odds

Focuses on making a situation fairer or more balanced.

take control of the situation

Highlights assuming command and changing the course of events.

come from behind

Describes overcoming a disadvantage to win.

get back at

Suggests retaliation and evening the score.

exact retribution

Implies exacting revenge or punishment for a wrong.

FAQs

How can I use "turn the tables" in a sentence?

You can use "turn the tables" to describe a situation where someone who was previously at a disadvantage gains the upper hand. For example, "The underdog team managed to "turn the tables" and win the championship."

What's a similar phrase to "turn the tables"?

Similar phrases include "reverse the roles", "gain the upper hand", or "shift the balance of power". These all imply a change in who has the advantage.

Is "turn the table" grammatically correct?

No, the correct idiomatic expression is ""turn the tables"" (plural). "Turn the table" is not a recognized idiom with the same meaning.

What does "turn the tables" mean in a negotiation context?

In negotiations, ""turn the tables"" means to shift the advantage to your side by using a clever strategy or unexpected move. It implies reversing a disadvantageous position.