the worm [turn]
1
used to refer to a sudden change in a situation where one or a group of people who were weak, unsuccessful, oppressed, etc. become strong, successful, liberated, etc.
The the origin of the idiom "the worm turns" is not precisely known, but it is likely rooted in the observation that even a humble worm, when provoked or pushed too far, will turn and defend itself. Over time, the expression has come to signify a shift from passivity to assertiveness in response to perceived unfair treatment.
- After years of being mistreated by their employer, the employees finally had enough, and the worm turned as they went on strike.
- She endured years of bullying, but one day, the worm turned, and she stood up to her tormentors.
- When the previously submissive character in the story decided to take a stand, it was a moment when the worm turned.
- In the face of constant criticism, he reached a breaking point, and the worm turned as he defended his work and his worth.
- The nation had been subject to a dictatorship for decades, but eventually, the worm turned, and the people rose up to demand freedom and democracy.