about turn

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about turn

The soldier performed a crisp about turn on the parade ground.

Definition

Noun: 1. A turn of 180 degrees, especially executed by a group of people (such as soldiers) in a precise, unified manner. This term specifically describes a formal maneuver where individuals turn to face the exact opposite direction. 2. (Figurative) A complete and sudden reversal of opinion, policy, or direction. This meaning extends the military precision to describe a swift and total change in a non-physical context.

Usage and Examples

  • Noun (Literal - Military/Formal Maneuver):

    • The sergeant barked the command, and the platoon executed a perfect about turn.
    • During the drill, the cadets practiced the about turn until their movements were synchronized.

  • Noun (Figurative - Sudden Reversal):

    • The government's new tax policy is a complete about turn from its previous promises.
    • The company did an about turn on its remote work policy, now requiring everyone in the office.
Advanced Usage
  • "To do an about-turn": This is a common verbal phrase meaning to perform the maneuver or, more frequently, to make a complete reversal in stance or direction.
    • Facing public pressure, the council was forced to do an about-turn on the development plans.
Variants and Related Words
  • About-face (noun): This is the more common equivalent, especially in American English, with identical meanings (both literal and figurative).
  • Turnabout (noun): Similar to the figurative sense, meaning a sudden or complete change or reversal.
Synonyms
  • Reversal: A change to an opposite direction, position, or course of action.
  • U-turn: Literally a 180-degree turn in a vehicle; figuratively, a complete reversal of policy or opinion.
  • Volte-face: A formal term for a complete reversal of attitude or policy.
Notes on Usage
  • The term is often hyphenated: .
  • In its literal sense, it is primarily used in British English and in formal or military contexts. The figurative use is common in general journalism and commentary.
  • The command given for the maneuver is typically "About turn!" in British English, whereas the American English equivalent is "About face!".
about turn

The soldier performed a crisp about turn on the parade ground.

Noun
  1. act of pivoting 180 degrees, especially in a military formation

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