[turn] the tide
1
to change an unfavorable situation so that it works to one's advantage
The origin of the idiom "turn the tide" lies in nautical terminology, where "tide" refers to the rising and falling of the sea. When sailors encounter a changing tide, it can greatly affect the course and direction of their voyage. Figuratively, the expression is used to signify a significant shift or change in a situation, often for the better.
- He claimed that his government was turning the tide in the war against drugs.
- The votes in the swing state may turn the tide in this election.
- Wow, they really turned the tide on their opponents by scoring 20 unanswered points!
- After a series of losses, the team's star player made a game-changing play that turned the tide in their favor.
- Public awareness campaigns on climate change aim to turn the tide against environmental degradation.
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