About-face (Verb)
Meaning 1
Change one's mind and assume the opposite viewpoint.
Classification
Verbs of thinking, judging, analyzing, doubting.
Examples
- The politician was initially against the proposal but did an about-face and announced her support after meeting with the concerned group.
- She did an about-face on campus parking policies after experiencing the problem firsthand as a student driver.
- He made an about-face in his views on environmental issues after watching an eye-opening documentary on climate change.
- After listening to the new evidence, the jury did an about-face and acquitted the defendant.
- The consumer advocate did an about-face on her evaluation of the product after realizing her own mistake in using it improperly.
Related Words
Meaning 2
Turn, usually 180 degrees.
Classification
Verbs of walking, flying, swimming.
Examples
- The drill instructor ordered the recruits to do an about-face and march in the opposite direction.
- When the alarm sounded, the guard made an about-face and began scanning the area behind him.
- As the officer realized his mistake, he made a quick about-face to correct his error.
- Upon hearing her name, she did an about-face and headed back to the front desk.
- The general made a sudden about-face to face his commanding officer.