# shift the dial

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/shift-the-dial
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To make a significant change or impact in a particular situation or context.

## Examples

- We need new ideas to shift the dial on sales.
- The new marketing campaign failed to shift the dial, so the company decided to change its strategy entirely.
- Despite the implementation of several minor policy adjustments, the committee struggled to shift the dial on the persistent issue of urban poverty.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.