Synonyms of volte-face

volte-face

noun

ˌvȯlt-ˈfäs 

as in reversal

a changing from one policy or point of view to virtually its exact opposite

the novelist's unexpected volte-face from experimentalism to traditional narrative form

Synonyms & Similar Words

• reversal
• about-face
• turnabout
• change of heart
• about-turn
• turnaround
• flip-flop
• U-turn
• denial
• disavowal
• renunciation
• retraction
• recantation
• switcheroo
• reconsideration
• hesitation
• disaffirmance
• repudiation
• disownment
• vacillation
• bait and switch
• second thought
• indecision
• irresolution
• wavering
• retreat
• wobbling
• shilly-shallying

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of volte-face

The Kremlin has denied any such request was made, which tells you something about how Moscow views the optics of this diplomatic volte-face. — Bobby Ghosh, Time, 22 Dec. 2025

Britain is not the only country pressed into making a volte-face. — London Business School, Forbes, 24 Feb. 2025

The realities of Putin’s momentum, coupled with Washington’s volte-face, have led to a clear mood shift in Kyiv. — Daryna Mayer, NBC News, 13 Feb. 2025

The policy volte-face is another blow to Thailand’s nascent cannabis industry after decriminalization was pitched as a way to boost agricultural income and wellness tourism. — TIME, 10 May 2024

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