about-faced
/əˌbaʊtˈfeɪst/
VERB
1. To turn 180 degrees to face the opposite direction
To make a complete half-turn so as to face in the opposite direction.
1.1. Physical turning to face the opposite direction
Describes someone or something turning around by 180 degrees, changing the direction they are facing.
Synonyms
- turned
- pivoted
- reversed
Antonyms
- maintained
- straightened
Related Words
- turned around
- U-turn
- about-turn
VERB
2. To change opinion or attitude drastically
To make a sudden and significant change in one's beliefs, position, decision, or attitude.
2.1. Changing beliefs or personal opinions
Describes suddenly adopting a different belief, opinion, or personal stance.
Synonyms
- backtracked
- reversed
- recanted
- retracted
Antonyms
- maintained
- upheld
Examples
- About-faced in his beliefs, the politician surprised everyone with his sudden change of stance.
- She about-faced on her career path after discovering her true passion for environmental advocacy.
Related Words
- backed down
- backpedaled
- disavowed
- reneged
2.2. Reversing a decision, policy, or course of action
Describes abruptly changing a previously established decision, strategy, policy, or intended course of action.
Synonyms
- reversed
- rescinded
- revoked
- countermanded
- backtracked
Antonyms
- maintained
- supported
- upheld
Examples
- The company's decision to restructure its operations left employees feeling bewildered as they witnessed an unexpected about-faced strategy.
- The team's about-faced approach to training resulted in a remarkable improvement in their performance.
- His about-faced decision to quit his job and travel the world caught his family off guard, but ultimately brought him fulfillment.
Related Words
- abrogated
- annulled
- overturned
- repealed
- struck down
- withdrew