The worm will turn

usgb
phrase

A person who is usually quiet or obedient will retaliate or revolt if pushed too far. The phrase refers to the prediction of a drastic change in a situation due to the action of a person or thing usually taken lightly or regarded as powerless or insignificant.

He has been enduring his boss's tantrums silently for a long time, but beware, the worm will turn.
Visual representation of "the worm will turn" - A person who is usually quiet or obedient will retaliate or revolt if pushed too far. The phrase refers to the prediction of a drastic change in a situation due to the action of a person or thing usually taken lightly or regarded as powerless or insignificant.

Often appears as...

  • patient worm will turn
  • silent worm will turn

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "the worm will turn"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Unexpected Change

This phrase highlights a surprising shift when the meek or disregarded person takes action.

Illustration for Unexpected Change
His patience ran out, and the worm will turn, shocking everyone with his bold move.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Metaphoric Worm

Remember, the 'worm' represents a person, not an actual worm. It’s a metaphor.

Illustration for Metaphoric Worm
Just when they thought she would comply forever, the worm will turn.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Emotional Context

Use it to empathize with someone’s limit of tolerance before they push back.

Illustration for Emotional Context
They underestimated her once too often, and the worm will turn.
Visual representation of the word "The worm will turn"

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