Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

turn-the-tables-on-someone

idiom

tərn ðə ˈteɪbəlz ɑn ˈsʌmˌwʌn

Definition

To reverse a situation and gain the upper hand over someone.

Examples

After losing the first round of negotiations, she managed to turn the tables on her opponents in the second round.
He was being bullied at school, but he turned the tables on his bullies by standing up for himself.
With a clever strategy, the team turned the tables on their rivals during the championship game.

Meaning

This phrase is often used when a person who was in a disadvantageous position manages to change the circumstances in their favor, especially in a conflict or competition.