Turns on a dime

Posted by R. Berg on May 24, 2005

In Reply to: Turns on a dime posted by James Briggs on May 24, 2005

: : Would you explain the meaning of the phrase "life turns on a dime" please?

: Life is governed by very small events, just like a dime is a small coin.

The phrase might have a different meaning. A car that's very maneuverable is said to turn on a dime (it can make sharp, precise turns). One who says life turns on a dime may have in mind that events in a person's life can reverse themselves quickly.