tip the scales

phrase

1
: to register weight
tips the scales at 285 pounds
2
: to shift the balance of power or influence
… tipped the scales in favor of a declaration of war …—S. F. Bemis

Examples of tip the scales in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Ocasio-Cortez, a millennial herself, expects the younger generation will soon tip the scales in American politics. — Jason Ma, Fortune, 9 Aug. 2026 Of course, climate change has tipped the scales, as these are not in normal conditions. — Sean MacAday, Sacbee.com, 6 Aug. 2026 Hagee also said a single THC vape cartridge or a small tin of gummies can often tip the scales into felony territory in Texas, even if the same product was legal where it was purchased. — Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 July 2026 Only in dense urban areas would that likely be enough to tip the scales. — Rogé Karma, The Atlantic, 17 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for tip the scales

Rhymes for tip the scales

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Browse Nearby Words

tip the balance
tip the scales
tip the scales at
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Cite this Entry

“Tip the scales.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tip%20the%20scales. Accessed 18 Aug. 2026.

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