turn the tables on

VERB

retaliate

Synonyms

STRONGEST

reciprocate

STRONG

get pay recompense repay requite retrospect return revenge revive settle

WEAK

even the score exact retribution get back at make reprisal pay back return the compliment square accounts strike back take an eye for an eye take revenge turn upon wreak vengeance

Antonyms

STRONG

depart leave lose take

WEAK

forgive pardon sympathize

VERB

revenge

Synonyms

STRONGEST

avenge get back at vindicate

STRONG

defend fix get justify match punish reciprocate redress repay requite retort return score square

WEAK

be out for blood even the score fight back fix one's wagon get even give comeuppance hit back kick back make reprisal pay back pay back in spades pay off return the compliment settle up settle with stick it to take an eye for an eye venge

Antonyms

STRONG

deny depart fail leave lose refuse request surrender take

WEAK

forgive pardon sympathize

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Websites like DeFlock, FlockHopper and HaveIBeenFlocked purport to turn the tables on Flock by posting camera locations and helping residents elude them.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 26, 2026

Newsom took the opportunity to turn the tables on the president.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 17, 2026

Chasing 233, the Proteas were on the ropes at 78-5, but their tail refused to throw in the towel, showing the same grit that saw them turn the tables on India in their previous outing.

From Barron's • Oct. 13, 2025

And in what is becoming a familiar move at PMQs, he sought to turn the tables on Sir Keir by highlighting his stint as a shadow cabinet minister under Mr Corbyn.

From BBC • Feb. 28, 2024

“In the other,” added Nala, “we turn the tables on alien invaders.”

From "Dog Squad" by Chris Grabenstein

turn the tables on

Example Sentences

Related Words