TURNS TABLES Meaning and
Definition
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To "turn the tables" is a commonly used idiom that refers to reversing a situation or changing the power dynamic in a manner that is unexpected or advantageous. In essence, it implies shifting from being in a disadvantageous position to gaining an upper hand. The phrase often conveys a sense of poetic justice or comeuppance for the subject who was previously disadvantaged.
The origin of this phrase can be traced back to the gambling game of tables, a predecessor of modern backgammon. The tables were often used to describe the kind of board used by the players to determine moves and positions. "Turning the tables" in this context involved reversing the positions of the board, thereby reversing the fortunes of the players.
In present-day usage, "turning the tables" can describe various scenarios. It could involve a person gaining an advantage in a debate or argument by suddenly presenting stronger points. It may also be used to describe a situation where the underdog unexpectedly defeats a more powerful opponent, leading to a significant power shift. Additionally, it can represent a reversal of fortune in personal relationships, where the balance of power changes from one person to another.
Overall, "turning the tables" signifies a reversal or change in fortune, often resulting in an advantageous position, and is a widely used idiom in both everyday conversation and literature.
Common Misspellings for TURNS TABLES
- turntables
- turn tables
- turne tables
- rurns tables
- furns tables
- gurns tables
- yurns tables
- 6urns tables
- 5urns tables
- tyrns tables
- thrns tables
- tjrns tables
- tirns tables
- t8rns tables
- t7rns tables
- tuens tables
- tudns tables
- tufns tables
- tutns tables
- tu5ns tables
Etymology of TURNS TABLES
The phrase turns tables is derived from the metaphorical action of rotating or reversing the positions and circumstances of a situation or individuals involved. It is commonly used to describe a situation in which someone switches from being at a disadvantage to gaining an advantage over an opponent or an unfavorable situation.
The origin of the phrase turns tables can be traced back to ancient times when board games like chess and backgammon were highly popular. These games involve turning or moving the game pieces on a table or board, often resulting in a shift in power or control between opposing players. Over time, this action of physically altering the positions of game pieces came to symbolize the notion of an advantageous reversal in various contexts, leading to the figurative use of the phrase turns tables.
