turn the tables

== English == === Pronunciation === === Verb === turn (the) tables (third-person singular simple present turns the tables, present participle turning the tables, simple past and past participle turned the tables) (idiomatic) To reverse a situation, so that the advantage has shifted to the party which was previously disadvantaged. ==== Usage notes ==== Often used in the passive voice: the tables are turned, or similar forms e.g. the tables are turning. Often used with on. Turning the tables on a person means putting that formerly advantaged person at a disadvantage. ==== Derived terms ==== ==== Related terms ==== ==== Translations ==== ==== See also ====