U-turn

[ yoo-turn ]

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.

verb (used without object)

1. to execute a U-turn:

   to U-turn into oncoming traffic.

U-turn

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of U-turn¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

But last December, the council made a stunning U-turn and blocked the latest conversion proposal.

From Los Angeles Times

The teenagers then got back into Snook's car, which performed a U-turn in the street and sped away, leaving the boys collapsed in the street.

From BBC

Although Sarwar has said the UK Labour government’s new criteria is too restrictive, he has stopped short of backing SNP calls for a UK government U-turn.

From BBC

Yet, we don’t yet know if they truly flipped a U-turn.

From Los Angeles Times

Of the many ways Donald Trump’s return to the White House promises to upend federal policy, few are more predictable or damaging than the U-turn he and his allies threaten to take on climate change and environmental protection.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• change of mind
• reversal
• turnaround