Reversal of a Situation: English Vocabulary List

to quickly turn a disadvantageous circumstance into a beneficial one

"The team turned the tables in the second half."

"The smaller company turned the tables on its larger competitor by releasing a superior product at a lower price."

to change an unfavorable situation so that it works to one's advantage

"They turned the tide."

"The coach's halftime speech helped the team turn the tide of the game."

to say that someone's happiness or success will not last long as the situation is about to change

"He will laugh later."

"He boasted about his victory, but he will soon laugh on the other side of his face."

used to refer to a situation that has completely changed in one's favor

"The shoe is on other foot."

"After years of being overlooked, she finally got the promotion, and now the shoe is on the other foot."

used to refer to a sudden change in a situation where one or a group of people who were weak, unsuccessful, oppressed, etc. become strong, successful, liberated, etc.

"The worm turned finally."

"After years of being overlooked, the worm turned when she finally got her promotion."

the contrasting experiences of both prosperity and adversity that individuals may encounter in life

"Weal and woe together."

"Through all the weal and woe of life, their friendship remained steadfast and true."

used to say that a person's opinion or a situation has changed

"The tide is turning."

"The tide is turning in the election as more voters express dissatisfaction with the current government."