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about-face

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noun \ ə-ˈbau̇t-ˈfās \

Definition of about-face

1 :a 180° turn to the right from the position of attention
2 :a reversal of direction
3 :a reversal of attitude, behavior, or point of view
—

about-face

intransitive verb

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Origin and Etymology of about-face

from the imperative phrase about face, from 1about + 2face

about-face Synonyms

Synonyms
about-turn [British], flip-flop, reversal, turnabout, turnaround, U-turn, volte-face, change of heart
Related Words
bait and switch, switcheroo; denial, disaffirmance, disavowal, disownment, recantation, renunciation, repudiation, retraction; reconsideration, retreat, second thought; hesitation, indecision, irresolution, shilly-shallying, vacillation, wavering, wobbling (also wabbling)

ABOUT-FACE Defined for English Language Learners

about-face

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noun

Definition of about-face for English Language Learners

  • : the act of turning to face in the opposite direction

  • : a complete change of attitude or opinion

Learn More about about-face

  1. See words that rhyme with about-face Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for about-face Nglish: Translation of about-face for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of about-face for Arabic speakers

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