turn the scale

Buggins's turn

A humorous, disparaging term for the appointment of a person by rotation or promotion, on the basis of length of service (it being that person's "turn") rather than merit or level of qualification.

good turn

A good deed; a thoughtful or selfless act.

left turn

An unexpected change from the way things seemed to be going.

off the scale

Far in excess of what is normal or measurable.

returns to scale

a function describing how returns scale when production increases in the long run

serve the turn

To suffice for one's immediate purpose or need.

star turn

An acting performance which causes the performer to become renowned.

take a turn

Change in direction, tone, or tendency.