turn the tables

Speech parts

1. turn the tables - Verb

2. turn the tables - Phrase

Meaning

cause a complete reversal of the circumstances

Source: WordNet

Synonyms

reverse alter backtrack about-face back out backpedal turn the tide change course change one's mind have second thoughts change tack change one's tune dance to a different tune change someone's mind change someone's tune
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Antonyms

stick by not change remain unchanged stay the same deliver on a promise be loyal to
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Hypernyms

turn reverse change by reversal

Related terms

turntable worm turns table-turning turn the table

Examples

The extremists are the ones who have the money, the leaders, the iconography and the propaganda machines. We need to turn the tables. David Cameron

For those diehard conspiracy theorists who will refuse to believe this, I turn the tables and say: show me where I needed anyone else. Financing? Logistics? Specialised tech skills? Brainpower? Strategy? Show me where I needed a dark, mysterious 'Mr X! Timothy McVeigh

Never forget: This very moment, we can change our lives. There never was a moment, and never will be, when we are without the power to alter our destiny. This second, we can turn the tables on Resistance. This second, we can sit down and do our work. Steven Pressfield

The tables are turned now that the Republicans are in power! Source: Internet

A bold move is required to turn the tables and bring the mighty dragon down a peg or two before Cocan can fully engage the fire-breathing fiend. Source: Internet

Game 2 Tuesday, October 10, 1905 at the Polo Grounds (III) in upper Manhattan, New York The A's called on Chief Bender to turn the tables on the Giants. Source: Internet

Words in the phrase

turn the tables

Close letter words and terms

turn the screws turn the spotlight on turn the table turn the tide turn the trick turn the world upside down