Even at the turning of the tide

Definitions

facing a difficult situation or challenge
To describe a situation where one is struggling and facing a difficult obstacle or problem, with little hope or chance of success
persistence and perseverance
To convey the idea that even in the face of adversity or setbacks, one must continue to push forward and not give up
unexpected changes or reversals
To represent a sudden and unexpected shift in circumstances or events, often for the worse, that one must adapt to and overcome

Examples of Even at the turning of the tide

The company continued to struggle financially even at the turning of the tide in the industry, with declining sales and mounting debts.

This idiom is used to describe a situation where an adverse or negative trend seems to continue or persist, despite indications of a possible improvement or reversal. In this context, "the turning of the tide" is symbolic of a shift or change in circumstances or conditions, which should serve as a favorable development or opportunity for the company. However, the company's poor financial performance suggests that it is unable to capitalize on this change and remains stuck in its woes.
The athlete's performance in the tournament was impressive, considering the fact that she was still recovering from an injury sustained a few weeks prior. However, she could not maintain her form and slid down the rankings towards the end of the tournament, even at the turning of the tide in her favor.

This example illustrates how the idiom can be used to describe an unexpected reversal of fortune or setback, despite a previous positive development or trend. In this case, the athlete's injury initially affected her performance, causing her to fall behind her competitors. However, as she started to recover, it seemed as though she was regaining her form and making a comeback. However, she failed to sustain this improvement and stumbled once again, thus missing the opportunity to capitalize on the "turning of the tide" in her favor.
Despite the harsh criticisms she received for her recent film, the actress remained confident and determined to revive her career in Hollywood. She secured a leading role in a new movie project, which was expected to be a major hit. However, even at the turning of the tide in her favor, she could not shake off her poor reputation and was subjected to more negative reviews from the critics.

This example shows how the idiom can be used to describe a situation where a person's efforts to overcome a negative perception or reputation seem futile or unsuccessful. In this case, the actress seemed to have turned the tide in her favor by securing a new project, which should have helped her to rebuild her image and reputation. However, the continued negative reviews indicate that the "turning of the tide" did not bring about the desired change and that the actress still faces an uphill task to recover her career.
The small business struggled to stay afloat initially, but things started to look up as the economy showed signs of recovery. However, even at the turning of the tide, the business continued to face stiff competition and financial constraints, making it difficult for it to grow and expand.

This example demonstrates how the idiom can be used to describe a challenging or competitive business environment, where the favorable economic conditions do not necessarily translate into immediate success for all the players. In this context, "the turning of the tide" refers to a positive economic scenario, which should have created opportunities for the business to thrive. However, the business still encountered obstacles in the form of intense competition and financial problems, which prevented it from capitalizing on the favorable conditions and gaining a competitive advantage.
Despite the setbacks and obstacles faced along the way, the company managed to stay afloat even at the turning of the tide in the industry.

The phrase "even at the turning of the tide" is used to describe a situation where a person or organization is able to persevere and succeed, even when things are particularly challenging or difficult. In this example, the company faced challenges and setbacks, but was still able to remain successful and prosper in an industry that was undergoing significant changes.
The new product was initially met with skepticism and mistrust, but its creators persisted and worked tirelessly to gain support, even at the turning of the tide of public opinion.

Here, the phrase "even at the turning of the tide" refers to a situation where public opinion or perception is changing or shifting. The new product was not immediately popular or well-received, but its creators continued to promote and defend it despite the changing tide of public opinion.
She was determined to achieve her goals, no matter how difficult or challenging the process, even at the turning of the tide of fate.

This example uses the phrase "even at the turning of the tide of fate" to describe a situation where circumstances or events seem to be working against a person, but they remain focused and committed to their goals. The tide of fate in this context represents the idea that some things are outside of a person's control, but they can still pursue their dreams and aspirations despite these circumstances.
As the competitive landscape shifted and evolved, he remained focused and committed to his strategy, even at the turning of the tide of the market.

Here, the phrase "even at the turning of the tide of the market" refers to a situation where the market or industry is changing rapidly and unpredictably. The person in this example remained focused and committed to his strategy, even as the market shifted and evolved around him.

Conclusion

The idiom "even at the turning of the tide" is often used to convey a sense of struggle and persistence in the face of difficulties. It can also refer to sudden changes or reversals that one must adapt to and overcome. The overall intention of the idiom is to emphasize the challenging nature of a situation and the need to persevere and remain strong.

Origin of "Even at the turning of the tide"

The origin of this idiom can be traced back to nautical terminology. "Tide" refers to the rise and fall of the sea level, which can be unpredictable and can greatly affect a ship's movement. In the past, sailors had to carefully navigate and adjust their course during the "turning of the tide," which was when the tide changed direction and became stronger. This was a difficult and challenging task, and it required persistence and perseverance.

Over time, the phrase "even at the turning of the tide" came to be used in a more figurative sense, to describe any difficult or challenging situation. It is often associated with the idea of "weathering the storm," as it conveys the determination and resilience needed to face and overcome obstacles. This idiom has become a common expression in English, used to encourage and motivate others to stay strong and keep going even in tough times.