The phrase "turned tables on" is a common English idiom meaning to reverse a situation or outcome. The spelling of the word "turned" is /tɜːnd/ and the spelling of "tables" is /ˈteɪbəlz/. The pronunciation of "turned tables on" is /tɜːnd ˈteɪbəlz ɒn/. It is important to note that the word "tables" is plural and does not follow the typical spelling rule for adding "-s" to make a word plural. This phrase dates back to the 16th century, likely originating from board games where players would literally turn the tables to change the outcome.
To "turn the tables on" someone is an idiomatic expression derived from the game of table-turning. This phrase signifies a reversal of a situation or a sudden shift in power dynamics, often resulting in a surprising or unexpected outcome. When one "turns the tables on" another, they successfully change the balance of power and gain an advantage over their opponent.
The phrase is commonly used to describe a situation in which the expected roles or expectations are reversed. For instance, if a person is being accused of a crime but manages to prove their innocence and expose the true perpetrator, they would be said to have "turned the tables on" their accuser.
"Turning the tables on" someone implies a strategic or clever move to shift a situation in one's favor. It denotes a sudden twist or unexpected triumph, where the person who initiated the action or confrontation finds themselves at a disadvantage. This idiomatic expression can be applied in various contexts, such as personal relationships, professional interactions, or even in competitive sports.
Overall, "turning the tables on" someone means altering the dynamics of a situation, usually through a surprising turn of events or a clever maneuver, resulting in a reversal of expected outcomes and granting the person who "turns the tables" an advantage.