About Face, to do an 🔄
Definition: To reverse a decision or change one’s opinion. This idiom originates from the American military command to turn 180 degrees at attention, a staple maneuver dating from the mid-nineteenth century. By 1900, it was struttin’ its stuff in everyday figurative use. In more contemporary colloquial parlance, the phrase “do a 180” is gaining traction, though it’s yet to march into cliché territory.
Related Terms and Expressions 🌊➡️🏔️
- Flip-flop: A sudden or unexpected reversal in one’s opinion or position.
- U-turn: A complete change in direction or opinion.
- Change of heart: A shift in one’s feelings or attitudes.
- Turncoat: A person who changes allegiance or principles.
Synonyms and Antonyms 📚
- Synonyms: Reverse, revoke, overturn, backtrack.
- Antonyms: Persist, adhere, stick, remain.
Quotes & Proverbs 💬
“Consistency is the last refuge of the unimaginative.” —Oscar Wilde
“Only the wisest and stupidest of men never change.” — Confucius
Literature, Media, and More 📖🎥🎶
- Book Recommendation: “Who Moved My Cheese?” by Spencer Johnson - A whimsy tale exploring change and adaptation.
- Music: “Changes” by David Bowie - An anthem for transformation.
- Poetry: “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost - A poetic expression of life’s adaptable journeys.
- Movie: “Bruce Almighty” - Watch how a man changes his thinking with a divine twist.
Quizzes
### Which of these is a real idiom?
- [ ] Sipping tea with elephants
- [x] About face
- [ ] Riding a red wagon of dreams
- [ ] Dancing on toothpaste
> **Explanation:** "About face" is a genuine idiom meaning to reverse one's decision or opinion. The other options are flights of fancy!
### What is another way to express 'an about face' colloquially?
- [x] Do a 180
- [ ] Flip the pancake
- [ ] Sail the Otherway
- [ ] Dance the switcheroo
> **Explanation:** While "flip the pancake" sounds delicious, "do a 180" is the correct colloquial term for a sudden reversal. Yum!
### True or False: ‘About face’ originated from the culinary world.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** False. The term comes from military jargon, used to command troops to turn 180 degrees.
Cheers to your linguistic acumen and palate for idioms! Remember, a wise person knows when to do an about face and seize new possibilities.
Sincerely, Sgt. Chuckles McTurnaround
