tip-the-scales
/ˌtɪp ðə ˈskeɪlz/ IELTSAcademic
idiom
To cause a result to go one way, especially when two choices are close. It often means one factor makes a final decision, change, or success happen.
- His last answer tipped the scales in her favor.
- A cheaper price can tip the scales.
- The weather tipped the scales toward staying home.
Adinary Nuance
Tip the scales is close to phrases like swing the balance and make the difference. It is often used when the result is uncertain and one small factor decides it. Writers choose it when they want a clear image of final influence, not just general importance.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- làm nghiêng cán cân
- Spanish
- inclinar la balanza
- Chinese
- 使天平倾斜
- Japanese
- 天秤を傾ける
- Korean
- 저울을 기울게 하다
Etymology
This phrase comes from the image of a balance scale. If one side is heavier, it tips and changes the result. The idiom developed in English from this physical picture.
Common phrases
tip the scales in favor oftip the scales againsttip the scales toward
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is tip the scales formal or informal?
- It is neutral and works in writing, speech, and news reports.
- How is tip the scales different from make the difference?
- Tip the scales suggests a close choice, where one factor changes the result.
- Can I use tip the scales in academic writing?
- Yes, if you want a clear, figurative way to show influence or impact.