U-turn

American  

[yoo-turn] / ˈyuˌtɜrn /

noun

1. a U -shaped turn made by a vehicle so as to head in the opposite direction from its original course.

2. a reversal of policy, tactics, or the like, resembling such a maneuver.

---

verb (used without object)

1. to execute a U-turn.

   to U-turn into oncoming traffic.

U-turn British  

noun

1. a turn made by a vehicle in the shape of a U, resulting in a reversal of direction

2. a complete change in direction of political or other policy

---

Etymology

Origin of U-turn

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

Speaking after the U-turn was announced, she said she wants the ministers to know "they haven't got a clue of what it is to live this life".

From BBC

In a statement, he said: "This u-turn will come as a huge relief to parents and vulnerable children who rely heavily on this vital service and can now rightly look forward to it this summer."

From BBC

The weather over the next few days is set to take a sharp U-turn after a week basking in warm spring sunshine.

From BBC

Asian equity markets rebounded Tuesday, an abrupt U-turn from the prior day.

From The Wall Street Journal

A long-standing critic said "it is better to cringe and do a U-turn than do the wrong thing".

From BBC

Related Words

• change of mind
• reversal
• turnaround