# turn the tables

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/turn-the-tables
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To reverse a situation, so that the advantage has shifted to the party which was previously disadvantaged.

## Examples

- The underdog team turned the tables and won the game.
- After trailing for most of the match, the player turned the tables with a brilliant final move.
- By exposing the corruption within the firm, the whistleblower effectively turned the tables on the executives who had previously silenced him.

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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.