Turnaround Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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turnaround

[ˈtɜːnəˌraʊnd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in business

A complete change in a company's direction, performance, or fortunes, often brought about by a new manager or new strategy.

Synonyms

reversal, revival, transformation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
turnaround	This term is often used in business to describe a significant positive change in performance or fortunes, typically from a period of poor performance to good performance. The company's financial turnaround was remarkable this quarter. After the new CEO took over, there was a noticeable turnaround in employee morale.
transformation	This word describes a thorough or dramatic change in form or appearance, often implying improvement or enhancement. The transformation of the old factory into modern loft apartments is impressive. The transformation in her attitude after the workshop was noticeable.
reversal	This word is used to describe a complete change in direction or position, often in a negative sense when referring to a setback or loss. The team suffered a reversal of fortune in the second half. The policy reversal caused confusion among the citizens.
revival	This term is commonly used when something is brought back to life or improved after a period of decline, particularly in cultural or religious contexts. The revival of traditional music has attracted many young people. There has been a revival of interest in vintage clothing.

Examples of usage

The company experienced a remarkable turnaround after hiring a new CEO.
The successful turnaround of the struggling business impressed investors.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in transportation

The act of turning a vehicle around in the opposite direction.

Synonyms

about-face, reversal, u-turn.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
turnaround	Commonly used in business and project management to describe a complete change that results in an improvement. The new management led to a significant turnaround in the company's performance. After implementing new strategies, the team achieved a remarkable turnaround.
reversal	Used to describe a change in direction or status, particularly in situations involving outcomes or decisions. It doesn't necessarily imply improvement or worsening. The court's reversal of the previous ruling shocked the public. There was a sudden reversal in fortune, turning her luck around.
u-turn	Primarily used in driving to indicate a vehicle turning around in the road, but also used metaphorically to describe a complete change in policy or opinion. Sometimes carries a slightly negative connotation of inconsistency or indecisiveness. The driver made a quick u-turn after missing the exit. The company's sudden u-turn on environmental policies caused public outrage.
about-face	Often used in both literal and metaphorical contexts to indicate a sudden and complete change in direction or opinion. Generally, it implies a deliberate decision to change. The politician's about-face on the issue surprised many of his supporters. In the military, soldiers performed an about-face and marched in the opposite direction.

Examples of usage

The bus made a quick turnaround at the station.
The pilot performed a tight turnaround on the runway.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

general

To change or reverse a decision, opinion, or situation.

Synonyms

alter, change, reverse.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
turnaround	Typically used in business or project management to describe a complete change in performance or direction, often from a bad situation to a good one. The company experienced an impressive turnaround in profits this quarter The new CEO promised a quick turnaround of the failing department
reverse	Used to describe a complete change in direction or a return to a previous state. Often implies going back to a prior condition and can sometimes carry a negative connotation, especially in the context of progress being undone. The government decided to reverse its policy on climate change He had to reverse the car out of the parking space
change	A general term used to indicate any modification, transformation, or shift. Applies in a wide range of contexts, from personal changes to systemic transformations. I need to change my schedule tomorrow The weather can change very quickly this time of year
alter	Used when making small or specific changes to something without changing its fundamental nature. Often applied in contexts like clothing alterations, documents, or minor adjustments. She decided to alter her dress for the wedding We had to alter the project plan slightly to meet the deadline

Examples of usage

The company decided to turnaround its marketing strategy.
He quickly turnaround his attitude towards the project.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Business

In the corporate world, a turnaround refers to actions taken to revive a failing business.
Many famous companies, like Apple in the late 1990s, underwent successful turnarounds by introducing innovative products.
A turnaround strategy often involves changes in management, finances, or product offerings to boost performance.

Transportation

In aviation, the turnaround time is crucial; it’s how long it takes for an airplane to prepare for its next flight.
Buses and trains also have turnaround points where they reverse direction to return.
Efficient turnaround processes in transport can reduce delays and improve customer satisfaction.

Sports

In sports, a turnaround can describe how a team that was losing starts to win, often called a 'comeback'.
Some athletes thrive on making quick turnarounds in performance, showcasing resilience and determination.
The concept of turnaround is celebrated in many sports stories, motivating fans to believe in change.

Psychology

The ability to experience a turnaround in life, such as overcoming challenges, is often linked to resilience and personal growth.
Therapy can facilitate emotional turnarounds, helping individuals shift their perceptions and behaviors for the better.
This psychological perspective emphasizes the importance of hope and motivation in achieving positive change.

Culture

In storytelling, a turnaround often refers to a plot twist where characters face unexpected changes.
Movies and books frequently feature turnarounds to keep audiences engaged and surprised.
Cultural narratives often highlight the theme of redemption, showcasing characters who experience significant turnarounds.

Origin of 'turnaround'

The term 'turnaround' originated in the world of shipbuilding, where it referred to the time it took to turn a ship around in a dock for repairs or modifications. Over time, the term expanded to describe a complete change or reversal in various contexts, such as business and transportation.