Turnaround: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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