about-face

Meaning

Noun

1. An abrupt turn to face the opposite direction.
2. (figuratively) A reversal in direction; a reversal of attitude or opinion.

Verb

1. (intransitive) To turn 180 degrees to face the opposite direction.
2. To change opinion or attitude drastically.

Synonyms

volte-face

about turn

conversion

alteration

shift

U-turn

change

reversal

about-turn

transformation

policy change

turn around

reform

regeneration

switch

turnabout

turnaround

complete change

make a U-turn

adaptation

adjustment

alternate

double back

flip-flop

fluctuate

metamorphosis

modification

mutable

recreation

refashioning

Translations

media vuelta

keer

⌚

dietro front

transformation

volte-face

voltafaccia

dietrofront

wisseling

omkeer

verzetting

verandering

cambiamento

meia-volta

dietro

Änderung

Pronounced as (IPA)

/əˈbaʊtˌfeɪs/

Etymology

From about + face, first attested in 1861, used in the imperative in the military.