rightabout: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal or technical, especially in military contexts
Quick answer
What does “rightabout” mean?
A turn to the right or in the opposite direction.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A turn to the right or in the opposite direction; a reversal.
Used to indicate a complete change in direction or opinion, often in military commands or figurative language.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage between British and American English.
Connotations
Strongly associated with military drills and formal commands.
Frequency
Equally uncommon in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “rightabout” in a Sentence
turn rightaboutexecute a rightaboutVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “rightabout” in a Sentence
adverb
British English
- He turned rightabout and marched off the parade ground.
American English
- She did a rightabout and headed back the way she came.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used; may appear in metaphors for strategic changes.
Academic
Uncommon; possibly in historical or military studies.
Everyday
Infrequent; might be used humorously or in commands.
Technical
Used in military or drill instructions.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “rightabout”
- Using 'rightabout' as a standalone verb, e.g., 'He rightabouted quickly.', which is non-standard.
- Spelling it as two words in contexts where it is treated as a single term.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is relatively uncommon and is mostly used in specific contexts like military drills or formal commands.
Yes, but it is infrequent and might be used for emphasis or in a humorous way to indicate a sudden change.
They are similar, but 'rightabout' often specifies a turn to the right, whereas 'about-turn' is more general, though in many contexts they are synonymous.
Yes, it is listed in most English dictionaries as an adverb or noun, often with reference to military usage.
A turn to the right or in the opposite direction.
Rightabout is usually formal or technical, especially in military contexts in register.
Rightabout: in British English it is pronounced /ˌraɪt əˈbaʊt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌraɪt əˈbaʊt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “rightabout face”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Remember 'right' + 'about' – turning right all about to face the opposite way.
Conceptual Metaphor
Direction change as a metaphor for reversal or reconsideration.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of 'rightabout'?