about-face

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "about-face" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a complete reversal of opinion, direction, or position, often in a military context or in discussions about policy changes. Example: "After much debate, the committee decided to make an about-face on their initial proposal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

The about-face hardly comes as a surprise.

Forbes

The admission was an abrupt about-face.

The New York Times

But he had an about-face.

The New York Times

That led to another about-face.

The Economist

It was a major about-face.

The New Yorker

His statement was an about-face.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

"About face".

The New York Times

"It's all about face".

The New Yorker

It's not about face time".

The New York Times

Talk about face value.

The New York Times - Style

"Asia is all about face.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "about-face" to describe a significant change in direction or policy, particularly when the change is unexpected or dramatic. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "about-face" for minor adjustments or gradual changes. Reserve it for instances where there is a clear and decisive reversal of a previous position or action.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "about-face" primarily functions as a noun, describing an abrupt reversal or change in direction, opinion, or policy. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and commonly used. It can also function as a verb, meaning to perform such a reversal.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

92%

Formal & Business

4%

Science

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "about-face" is a versatile phrase primarily used as a noun to describe a complete reversal of direction, policy, or opinion. As highlighted by Ludwig, it's grammatically sound and frequently found in news and media contexts. While the phrase is suitable for both formal and informal settings, it’s important to reserve it for significant shifts rather than minor adjustments. Alternatives like "reversal of opinion" or "complete turnaround" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember that it's generally applicable in a neutral to professional context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

volte-face

This is a more formal and literary term for a complete reversal.

complete turnaround

This phrase underlines the completeness and decisiveness of the change.

major reversal

Highlights the significance and extent of the change.

reversal of opinion

This alternative focuses specifically on a change in someone's beliefs or viewpoint, omitting the directional aspect.

policy shift

This alternative is suitable when describing changes in official rules or strategies.

U-turn

A more informal term, implying a sharp and often controversial change in direction or policy.

abrupt shift

Focuses on the unexpected and sudden nature of the change.

sudden turn

This alternative emphasizes the abruptness of the change, suitable for describing unexpected shifts.

radical change

This alternative emphasizes the fundamental and far-reaching nature of the change.

change of heart

This suggests that the change is driven by emotion or a change in personal feelings.

FAQs

How is "about-face" used in a sentence?

The phrase "about-face" can be used as a noun or a verb. As a noun, it describes a complete reversal. Example: "The company's "policy shift" was a surprising about-face." As a verb, it means to turn around completely or to drastically change an opinion. Example: "The politician did an about-face on the issue of tax cuts."

What are some alternatives to "about-face"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "reversal of opinion", "complete turnaround", "sudden turn", or "volte-face".

Is "about-face" formal or informal?

"About-face" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. While "volte-face" is a more formal synonym, "about-face" is widely understood and acceptable in most situations.

When is it appropriate to use "about-face"?

Use "about-face" when describing a significant and often unexpected reversal in direction, policy, or opinion. Ensure the context involves a clear shift from a previous stance or action.