About turn
Definitions
reverse direction or opinion
To make a sudden change in direction or opinion, often in a complete 180 degree turnchange course or strategy
To alter one's approach or plan in a significant waysudden change or reversal
To describe a sudden and unexpected change or reversal in a situation or circumstance
Examples of About turn
The government announced a complete about turn on their previous decision to cut funding for education.
An about turn is a sudden change of direction or decision, often after strongly opposing it previously. In this example, the government initially decided to cut funding for education, but later reversed this decision and increased funding instead. This is a dramatic change in direction, represented by the image of turning around completely.2. Bark up the wrong tree
The police were barking up the wrong tree when they accused my friend of the crime.
To bark up the wrong tree is to pursue a course of action that is unlikely to lead to success, or to accuse the wrong person of a crime. In this example, the police were mistaken in their accusation, and were essentially chasing after the wrong suspect.3. Beat around the bush
The salesperson beat around the bush when she tried to avoid answering my question.
To beat around the bush is to avoid answering a direct question, or to use indirect language instead of being clear and direct. In this example, the salesperson was evasive in her response, perhaps hoping to avoid revealing some important information.4. Bite the bullet
The CEO had to bite the bullet and announce the layoffs to the employees.
To bite the bullet is to face a difficult or unpleasant situation with courage and determination, rather than avoiding it. In this example, the CEO knew that layoffs were necessary, but it was still a difficult decision to make. By "biting the bullet" and announcing the layoffs, she was showing leadership and taking responsibility for the tough choice.5. Break a leg
Good luck with your audition! Break a leg!
To break a leg is to wish someone good luck, using a humorous and somewhat contradictory phrase. The origin of this idiom is unclear, but it may have come from the superstition that wishing someone "good luck" might actually bring them bad luck. By saying "break a leg," the speaker is acknowledging this superstition and trying to avoid it, while still wishing the other person well.