turn against

You can use this for people, groups, or even abstract things. You say someone turns against someone. For example, "The crowd turned against the singer." You can also use it for things like your body or your mind. "My stomach turned against me after that spicy taco." It usually implies a shift from positive to negative.

Use it when discussing drama, politics, or sports. It is perfect for describing a plot twist in a movie. It works well when a situation becomes hostile. If your best friend starts hanging out with your rival, they have turned against you. It is a strong phrase, so use it when the change feels significant.

Don't use it for small, temporary disagreements. If your mom says no to a cookie, she hasn't turned against you. She is just being a mom. Also, avoid it for simple mechanical failures. You wouldn't say your car turned against you if it ran out of gas. That is just bad maintenance, not a betrayal!

In English-speaking cultures, loyalty is a huge theme in storytelling. From Shakespeare to modern spy movies, the "betrayal" moment is a classic trope. Turn against captures that cinematic feeling of a former ally becoming a villain. It reflects a culture that values consistent support and finds sudden shifts in behavior very dramatic.

You might hear turn on someone. This is very similar but often feels more violent or aggressive. Turn against is broader and can be a slow process. You might also hear the tide turned against them. This means the general situation or luck has changed for the worse. It is like being at the beach and the waves suddenly start pulling you out to sea.