From Longman Dictionary of Contemporary Englishturn the tables (on somebody)turn the tables (on somebody)OPPOSITE/REVERSEBEAT/DEFEATto change a situation completely, so that someone loses an advantage and you gain one The tables were turned in the second half, when Leeds United scored from the penalty spot. → table
Examples from the Corpus
turn the tables (on somebody)• That would certainly turn the tables, Blue thinks, that would certainly stand the whole business on its head.• Isn't it nice to see a couple turning the tables on a double-glazing salesman?• So much for turning the tables.• Antony has turned the tables completely and has now completely destroyed all hopes of the conspirators ever establishing themselves in Rome.• Her record speed has turned the tables on Runyan, the defending champion.• Especially when such a rider turns the tables.• That turns the tables on movie ratings.• Glenn Hoddle reckons Town are a good bet to turn the tables.• It's time to turn the tables. 