worm turns
Circumstances change so that a previously disadvantaged party gains the advantage, or vice-versa.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The worm turns when the underdog finally wins the game.”
“After years of being bullied by his boss, he finally spoke up and quit, showing that the worm turns eventually.”
“History often demonstrates that the worm turns, as those who once held absolute power find themselves subject to the very laws they previously ignored.”
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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.
- 02
can of worms
A complex, troublesome situation arising when a decision or action produces considerable subsequent problems.
- 03
everything one touches turns to gold
Everything someone uses or does succeeds or becomes better.
- 04
everything one touches turns to shit
Everything someone uses or does fails or becomes worse.
- 05
good turn
A good deed; a thoughtful or selfless act.
- 06
left turn
An unexpected change from the way things seemed to be going.
- 07
poacher turned gamekeeper
A person now charged with protecting what they formerly preyed upon.
- 08
serve the turn
To suffice for one's immediate purpose or need.
Last updated August 10, 2026