ABOUT FACED Meaning and
Definition
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"About-faced" is a phrase that originated from military terminology but has now extended its use to everyday language. It refers to a sudden and complete change in direction, stance, or opinion, often occurring swiftly and unexpectedly. The term implies a complete reversal, turning 180 degrees from a previous position or course.
In military contexts, an "about face" is a formal drill command that orders soldiers to shift their position by pivoting on their heels, making an abrupt turn to face the opposite direction. This action has come to symbolize a complete change or reversal in strategy or tactics.
Outside the military, "about-faced" is commonly used figuratively to describe a radical change in perspective, attitude, behavior, or course of action. It expresses a sudden shift, often in response to new information, unexpected circumstances, or a reevaluation of one's position. The term implies a complete turnaround, as if someone has walked back in the opposite direction.
For instance, in a political context, an individual or party might undergo an "about face" by drastically altering their policies, principles, or stance on a particular issue. Similarly, in personal relationships or decision-making processes, "about-faced" denotes a sudden change of mind or approach, turning away from an initial opinion or plan. Overall, the term "about-faced" encapsulates a swift and complete reversal in thought, direction, or action.
Common Misspellings for ABOUT FACED
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Etymology of ABOUT FACED
The term "about faced" originated from the military term "about-face", which refers to a quick 180-degree turn executed by soldiers. The etymology of "about-face" can be traced back to the combination of two English noun phrases:
1. "About", coming from the Middle English word "abouten", meaning "around" or "on every side".
2. "Face", derived from the Old French word "facer", meaning "to face" or "to confront".
The phrase "about-face" started as a military command, instructing soldiers to turn their bodies sharply in the opposite direction. Over time, it also gained figurative usage to depict a sudden change in opinion, behavior, or course of action even outside military contexts. "About faced" is the past tense of "about-face" and is commonly used to describe an action or decision made in a complete reversal from a prior position.
