Example: Laten we de rollen omdraaien en jij bent nu de leraar.
Definition
"De rollen omdraaien" is a Dutch expression meaning to switch roles or reverse positions between people, often to gain a different perspective or experience. For example, in 'Laten we de rollen omdraaien en jij bent nu de leraar,' it means 'Let's switch roles and you are the teacher now.'
Translations
to reverse the roles
invertir los papeles
invertir els papers
inverser les rôles
die Rollen vertauschen
invertire i ruoli
inverter os papéis
Etymology
The phrase "de rollen omdraaien" literally translates to 'turn the roles around.' It combines 'rollen' (roles or parts) and 'omdraaien' (to turn around or reverse). It originates from theatrical terminology where actors change parts or positions, metaphorically extending to everyday situations where people switch responsibilities or perspectives.
Learn to use this expression actively
"De rollen omdraaien" appears in the Vocaplus list "Dutch - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (C1) - set 1", containing 100 commonly used expressions.
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to reverse the roles