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

Tuesday's NFU conference was the first to be held since its abrupt closure, in addition to Labour's partial U-turn on farm inheritance tax proposals.

From BBC

On top of that, Honda representatives were involved in meetings about the new engine rules all the way through - hence their U-turn on involvement in early 2023.

From BBC

The plant's owner insists it adheres to required emission thresholds, but the government's closure U-turn has left some locals disheartened.

From Barron's

Yesterday's shift in policy was both a U-turn, and a humiliation for Local Government Secretary Steve Reed.

From BBC

Around 5,000 seats across 136 local councils will now be up for grabs, following the government's U-turn on council election delays.

From BBC

Related Words

• change of mind
• reversal
• turnaround