What's "about-face" mean, and is it really used like this, in the past tense?

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Here, "about-face" is a verb that means to turn around and face the opposite direction. It can also be a noun to indicate a complete change of policy or opinion. And yes! As a verb, it can be used in the past tense like this. It's not a very common term, but it is used enough. Ex: As soon as they entered the restaurant they about-faced it because it was so full. Ex: We'll about-face it if you change your mind and don't want to compete. Ex: They did a complete about-face for company policies.

How do native speakers use this expression?

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Popular Q&As

12/21

1
Is this sentence's grammar correct? Can I say "Not only he has homered" instead?
The grammar is correct in this sentence, "not only" can be used at the beginning of a sentence to convey that "there was not only one thing, but there was an additional thing". Another example is: Not only did I make dinner, but I also made dessert. You can also say this sentence as "He has not only homered, but he's (also) tied the game."

2
I don't think 'what is it' here literally ask what something is. I wanna know the meaning and when it can be used.
You're right. "What is it?" is not being used literally here. English speakers can use "What is it?" to express: "What's wrong?" (showing concern) or "What do you want?" (showing slight annoyance). How it sounds depends on the tone of voice you use. Ex: What is it, honey? You look sad. Do you have something you want to tell me? Ex: A: Boss, can I talk to you for a second? B: What is it? I'm really busy right now.

3
What does it mean to do something "actively?"
"Actively" means deliberately, 힘, positively. Here, "no one ... actively hates me" means "no one vigorously/especially hates me." However, in many contexts, "actively" is used to describe action - it means to take the initiative to do something. For example, if a company is actively trying to recruit you, it means they are taking the initiative to get you to join their company. Ex: I don't actively look for new friends, I just seem to meet new people naturally. Ex: Are you going to actively pursue this man? He seems like he's hard to approach.

4
Does "bit" necessary in this sentence? What does it mean?
Yes, "bit" is necessary here. "Bit" here means "part" or "section". Ex: I liked the bit in my book that talked about cooking. Ex: Please act out a bit from a movie for your audition.

5
What does "take down" mean? If it's not a phrasal verb or something, then why is "down" used here?
Yeah, it's not quite a phrasal verb here. Here, "take" is similar to "bring," and "down" is an adverb that indicates a place that is some distance away or towards the south. Usually, to "take [someone] down [somewhere]" means to bring them to that place. Ex: I'm going down to the shops quickly. Need anything? Ex: She's down by the harbor sailing her boat. Ex: I'll take her down to the school for volleyball practice.

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