Turn the tide
/tɜːn ðə taɪd/informalUK · US
What does “Turn the tide” mean?
Turn the tide means to change the direction of events, often in your favour
A single goal can turn the tide of a match if it changes the team’s confidence and pressure. The important point is the change in how things are going.
The phrase does not guarantee a final victory. It can describe the moment a losing effort starts to recover.
When do people say it?
Often used when an event or action changes how a contest, campaign or difficult situation is developing. It suggests a substantial shift.
“One late goal turned the tide of the match.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
A tide changes the direction of moving water. The phrase borrows that turning point for events that begin moving a different way.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Turn the tide” in other languages?
Last updated 2026-11-13