ABOUT-FACE Synonyms: 81 Similar and Opposite Words

about-face 1 of 2

noun

ə-ˈbau̇t-ˈfās

Definition of about-face

as in reversal

a changing from one policy or point of view to virtually its exact opposite the candidate's frequent about-faces on issues disturbs many voters

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

about-face

2 of 2

verb

as in to revert

Related Words

Dissimilar Words

as in to pivot

Related Words

Dissimilar Words

straighten

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of about-face

Noun

In a 2019 interview with PEOPLE, Billie Eilish discussed the about-face she’s made on her international stardom. — Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 27 July 2026 However, after re-scrutinizing the legislation, the court performed an about-face. — Julia Buckley, CNN Money, 25 July 2026 In a striking about-face, Janza immediately announced that Slovenia would cancel its previous recognition of Palestine and move its embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. — Larry Luxner, Sun Sentinel, 20 July 2026 However, there was an about-face when security concerns prevented her and their two children, Prince Archie, 7, and Princess Lilibet, 5, from a full visit to Harry’s home country. — Simon Perry, PEOPLE, 16 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for about-face

Recent Examples of Synonyms for about-face

Noun

The reversal underscores how quickly the calculations of Asia’s wealthy can change.

— Leonie Kidd, CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026
The rebound marked a sharp reversal from the crypto downturn that began last October.

— Camila Grigera Naón, Fortune, 27 Aug. 2026

Definition of reversal

Verb

That project was scrapped in February 2025 due to creative differences and the rights have since reverted back to Maas.

— Jennifer Maas, Variety, 17 Aug. 2026
Stock Chart IconStock chart icon Marathon Petroleum, YTD Cyclical (or mean reverting) businesses look cheapest at the top as P/Es fall on record earnings.

— Michael Khouw, CNBC, 17 Aug. 2026

Definition of revert

Verb

Shares of Salesforce have gained nearly 16% over the past three months as the company has pivoted to AI, including by scooping up startups in the industry.

— Liz Napolitano, CNBC, 27 Aug. 2026
The school colors and logos are all set on Crocs’ lightweight Croslite material, with a supportive sole, pivoting heel straps and breathable upper.

— Tim Chan, Footwear News, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of pivot

Verb

Not to mention, few studios have purchased cinemas even after the Department of Justice rescinded the 1948 Paramount Consent Decrees, which previously disallowed studios from owning movie theater chains.

— Sarah Whitten, CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026
Earlier this month, the WNBA rescinded a technical foul called against Caitlin Clark, sparing her from what would have been a automatic one-game suspension for her eight technical of the season.

— ABC News, ABC News, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of rescind

Verb

But plenty of long-range computer models continue to show a future for the system, most as a tropical storm headed west toward the Caribbean, although plenty also show a potential track that curves north of Puerto Rico.

— Alex Harris, Miami Herald, 27 Aug. 2026
Several other curved, slender bones were soon found nearby, according to pictures shared with the station.

— Elizabeth Wolfe, CNN Money, 21 Aug. 2026

Definition of curve

Verb

While the ban lasted only three weeks, both the number of weekly visits to the needle exchange and the number of naloxone kits distributed were lower than expected for at least the 20 weeks after the ban was overturned.

— Paul Christine, The Conversation, 25 Aug. 2026
His acquittal was overturned and the case was merged with that relating to the coup attempt.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 25 Aug. 2026

Definition of overturn

Verb

And Vermelho Lagoa—a second property from Louboutin and his team due to bow around the same time—marks an expansion of their vision for the region.

— Mattie Kahn, Vogue, 31 Aug. 2026
As with most festivals, the majority of the movies bowing in Venice don’t deal directly with politics.

— Nick Vivarelli, Variety, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of bow

Browse Nearby Words

about

about-face

about-faced

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Cite this Entry

Style

“About-face.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/about-face. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of about-face

noun

verb

Example Sentences

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