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.

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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

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Etymology

Origin of U-turn

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

That is a U-turn from its prewar plans to raise the global growth forecast on the back of strong technology and artificial intelligence spending.

From Barron's • Apr. 9, 2026

Then he made a U-turn, pulled up near Palacios and called him over to his truck, Sadeh said.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 11, 2026

Oil fell and Asian equities rebounded Tuesday, making a sharp U-turn from the prior day after President Trump said the Iran war could soon be over.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 10, 2026

This has succeeded in attracting not only Audi, but also Ford and General Motors, and it persuaded Honda to U-turn on its decision to quit.

From BBC • Mar. 10, 2026

I do a quick U-turn and skid away.

From "Love, Hate & Other Filters" by Samira Ahmed

Related Words

• change of mind
• reversal
• turnaround