U-turn
UK: ˈjuː tɜːn | US: ˈjuː tɜːrn
n. a 180-degree turn made by a vehicle to reverse direction
n. (figurative) a complete reversal of policy, opinion, or strategy
The term "U-turn" emerged in the early 20th century, combining the letter "U" (visually depicting the semicircular path of the maneuver) with "turn" (from Old English tyrnan, meaning "to rotate"). The word reflects the physical trajectory of the action, where a vehicle curves like the letter "U" to face the opposite direction. Its figurative use for policy reversals arose later, leveraging the same imagery of abrupt directional change.
The driver made a sudden U-turn at the intersection.
The government's U-turn on tax reforms surprised the public.
No U-turns are allowed on this highway for safety reasons.
Her U-turn in career choices led her from law to art.
The company executed a U-turn by reintroducing its discontinued product.