returns to scale

diminishing returns

A condition in which additional inputs into an organization, project or process produce progressively fewer or lower-quality additional outputs, and may, in extreme cases, cause the total quantity or quality of outputs to decrease.

many happy returns

A greeting, usually for birthdays, in reference to the passing year; Happy birthday!

off the scale

Far in excess of what is normal or measurable.

thumb on the scale

An act of bias or a tactic for cheating which creates a situation that unfairly benefits one party involved in an interaction.

tip the scale

To change the fortunes, either positively or negatively.

turn the scale

To decide or determine a balanced situation.