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Explaining "Even a worm will turn"

Reviewed and edited by Lloyd Cooper 29/09/2024, 00:27
English.me team member

What does it mean?

Even a worm will turn

The phrase "Even a worm will turn" means that even the most humble or weak person will resist or retaliate if pushed too far. It signifies that there is a limit to what people can endure before they stand up for themselves.

Tone

Empowering

Origin

The phrase is rooted in an old proverbial belief that even the lowliest of creatures, such as a worm, will eventually defend itself if threatened. The phrase has been in use since at least the late 1500s and is often attributed to William Shakespeare, though its use predates him. It can be found in Shakespeare's play "Henry VI, Part 3", written in the early 1590s.

Examples of usage

  • After months of enduring the bully's taunts, Tim finally stood up for himself, proving that even a worm will turn.
  • The constant pressure at work was too much for Sarah, and she decided to confront her boss, a real-life example that even a worm will turn.

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