ring the changes

Idioms  

1. Keep varying how one performs an action or says something, as in She went on and on, ringing the changes on the joy of computers. This expression alludes to the art of change-ringing, where a series of church bells are rung in as many sequences, or changes, as possible. [Early 1600s]

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

ring the changes

It is Gloucester's turn to ring the changes as the whole front-row is rotated.

From BBC ● Apr. 11, 2024

Wales coach Ioan Cunningham began to ring the changes, but the impact from the bench could not spark the comebacks that had been seen over Ireland and Scotland.

From BBC ● Apr. 22, 2022

Houllier did indeed ring the changes at Anfield, selling the likes of David James and Paul Ince and bringing in a host of largely low-profile foreign players.

From The Guardian ● Jul. 15, 2015

Scotland may ring the changes for the friendly against Northern Ireland, with manager Gordon Strachan saying he wants to use everyone in his squad.

From BBC ● Mar. 24, 2015

Then they ring the changes in this way: 'You were always fond of grey, Miss Peabody.'

From Penelope's Irish Experiences by Wiggin, Kate Douglas Smith