What’s more inspiring (or nerve-wracking for those on the other end) than an unexpected twist where the underdog has their moment? “The worm turns,” they say—just like that lowly earthworm, when provoked, even the meekest creature can stand up for itself and change the game.
Related Terms & Expressions
- Comeback kid: Someone who makes a remarkable recovery or return to success.
- Turn the tables: To change the situation so that the advantage is now with the former disadvantage party.
- The underdog wins: The unlikely victor against all odds.
- Rags to riches: Starting from the bottom and reaching the top.
Proverbs & Humor
- Proverb: “The darkest hour is just before dawn.” Meaning, things often seem worse just before they get better.
- Joke: Why don’t worms ever get turned away? Because they always turn up! 😂
Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies
- Book: “The Prince and the Pauper” by Mark Twain, for a compelling tale of roles reversed.
- Song: “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor, the ultimate soundtrack for comebacks.
- Movie: “Rocky” directed by John G. Avildsen, where the ultimate underdog story takes center stage.
- Poem: “If—” by Rudyard Kipling, an inspirational read on perseverance and poise in adversity.
Essential Concepts & Fun Facts
- Many idioms reflect human fascination with dramatic reversals and audacious comebacks, tapping into our deep love for unpredictability and rooting for the underdog.
- “The worm turns” finds its roots not just in language but in historical wisdom, implying that patience and perseverance can eventually lead to a turning of the tide.
### Which of these represents an idiom where the underdog triumphs?
- [x] The worm turns
- [ ] Sing like a butterfly
- [ ] Dance with the yellow tulips
- [ ] Bubble over the rainbow
> **Explanation:** "The worm turns" accurately reflects the idea of an underdog, or someone initially at a disadvantage, overcoming their circumstances. The rest are just whimsical nonsense!
### Identify the real proverb about turning the tides.
- [ ] When the moon sings, the lion sleeps
- [x] Tread on a worm and it will turn
- [ ] The giraffe will dance at midnight
- [ ] Serenade of the dragonfly
> **Explanation:** "Tread on a worm and it will turn" is a genuine proverb highlighting that even the meekest will defend themselves under sufficient provocation. The others are imaginative but entirely made-up phrases.
### True or False: "The worm turns" is an idiom indicating a change in circumstance, often for the better.
- [x] True
- [ ] False
> **Explanation:** True! This idiom precisely describes a scenario where someone at a disadvantage suddenly changes their fate, often leading to an admirable victory.
Farewell Thought:
“Even the smallest worm can teach us that resilience and determination can turn any tide. If a worm can turn, so can you!”
Keep believing in the power of transformation and the unexpected.
Penelope Quimby-Lane
