wheels are turning: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘wheels are turning’ mean?
The idiom "wheels are turning" means that progress or action is happening, often in a slow or deliberate manner.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "wheel away" means to remove or take something away quickly, often using a wheel or wheeled vehicle. It implies a swift and efficient action of transportation or relocation.
The idiom "under way" means in progress or already started. It is often used to describe a project or event that has begun and is now moving forward. The phrase is derived from the nautical term for a ship that is moving through the water.
The idiom "turn the tide" means to change the course or direction of a situation, typically in a positive way, especially when it seemed to be going against someone or something.
The idiom "turn the tide" is a commonly used phrase in the English language. It is often used metaphorically to describe a situation where a significant change occurs, leading to a reversal of fortune or a shift in momentum.
The idiom "turn the tables" means to reverse a situation or gain an advantage over someone who had previously had the upper hand.
The idiom "turn the corner" means to start making progress or improving after a difficult or challenging situation.
The idiom "turn the boat" means to change direction or alter one's course, often in response to new information or circumstances. It implies a willingness to adapt or make adjustments in order to achieve a desired outcome or navigate through challenges.
The idiom "turn over" means to flip or rotate something, or to change one's position or occupation.
When used as an idiom, "turn around" means to change direction, to reverse a situation, or to make a significant improvement in a short amount of time.
The idiom "turn a corner" means to make progress or experience a positive change, especially after a difficult or challenging period.
The idiom "turn a corner" is a commonly used expression in the English language, typically conveying the idea of making progress, overcoming difficulties, or experiencing a positive change in a situation. It is a metaphorical phrase that has its roots in physical movement and spatial orientation.
The idiom "the wheels fell off" is used to describe a situation where something that was once functioning smoothly suddenly goes wrong or falls apart completely.
Unveiling the Mechanics.
Wheels are turning is an idiom that indicates progress or forward movement. It can be traced back to the early 19th century, where "wheel" represents circular motion and "turning" reflects movement or rotation. The idiom is commonly used to describe situations where plans or actions are being put into effect, and progress is starting to happen.
The idiom "set the wheels in motion" is closely related to "wheels are turning." When we set the wheels in motion, we initiate or start a process or plan. It signifies the beginning of action and progress towards a desired goal or outcome. It's like kick-starting a machine or putting a plan into action.
Another related idiom is "turn the corner." When we say that we are turning the corner, we mean that we have reached a critical point or a turning point in a situation. It suggests that we are making progress and moving closer to overcoming a challenge or finding a resolution. It's like navigating a bend in the road and seeing progress ahead.
The idiom "spin one's wheels" is also connected to "wheels are turning." When we spin our wheels, we are expending effort or energy without making any real progress. It implies that we are stuck or not moving forward despite our actions. It's like being stuck in mud and the wheels just spin without gaining traction.
These idioms complement the concept of "wheels are turning" by providing additional context and nuances to the idea of progress and forward movement. They capture different stages or aspects of the process, whether it's setting plans in motion, reaching turning points, or avoiding spinning our wheels.
When we use the idiom "wheels are turning" in a figurative sense, we are conveying the notion that progress is being made. It signifies that plans or actions are underway and things are moving forward towards an intended goal or outcome. The idiom paints a picture of machinery or mechanisms being set into motion to achieve a desired result.
This idiom is commonly used in discussions or descriptions of positive developments or advancements. It can refer to various fields such as scientific research, technological innovations, or social changes. For example, we might say that the wheels are turning in the field of medical research, indicating progress towards finding a cure for a specific disease.
On a personal level, the idiom can also be applied to indicate personal growth, career advancement, or the resolution of a problem or conflict. We might say that the wheels are turning in someone's career, suggesting that they are making progress and moving forward in their professional journey.
Furthermore, the idiom can be used to express the notion that a decision or plan is being put into action. It implies a state of activity or movement, suggesting that things are happening in a dynamic manner. The idiom conveys the idea that wheels, which symbolize progress and forward motion, are in motion or turning.
When we set the wheels in motion, we are taking the necessary steps to initiate or start a process. It signifies the beginning of action and progress towards a desired goal or outcome. For example, we might say that the company has set the wheels in motion for a new marketing campaign, indicating that the necessary actions are being taken to launch the campaign and generate results.
Turning the corner suggests a significant or critical point in a situation. It indicates that progress is being made and that we are moving closer to overcoming a challenge or finding a resolution. For instance, we might say that the project has turned the corner, meaning that we have overcome obstacles and are now making substantial progress towards completion.
On the other hand, spinning our wheels implies that we are expending effort or energy without making any real progress. It suggests being stuck or not moving forward despite our actions. For instance, we might say that we have been spinning our wheels in trying to solve a complex problem, indicating that we have been unable to make any substantial progress.
"wheels are turning" is an idiom that signifies progress or forward movement. It can be used in various contexts to convey the idea that plans or actions are being put into effect and things are starting to happen. The idioms "set the wheels in motion," "turn the corner," and "spin one's wheels" are closely related and provide additional nuances to the concept of progress. When used, these idioms create a vivid imagery of progress, movement, and the eventual realization of plans and intentions.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "wheels are turning" can be used in a sentence:
- After she presented her idea, you could see the wheels turning in his head as he considered how it could be implemented.
- As the students brainstormed ideas, you could see the wheels turning as they came up with innovative solutions.
- During the meeting, the team leader's wheels were turning as he pondered the best course of action to address the problem.
More "Transportation" idioms
