How Do You Spell VOLTE-FACES?

Pronunciation: [vˈə͡ʊltfˈe͡ɪsɪz] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "volte-faces" may seem confusing at first glance. However, by using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), we can break it down. The first part, "volte" is pronounced "vɔlt", like "volt" with a short "e" sound. The second part, "faces" is pronounced "fæsɪz", with a short "a" sound and a "z" sound at the end. When combined, "volte-faces" is pronounced "vɔlt fæsɪz". It refers to a sudden change of opinion or attitude, which is appropriately reflected in its seemingly sudden and unexpected spelling.

VOLTE-FACES Meaning and Definition

  1. Volte-faces, also spelled volte faces, is a term of French origin that is used in English to refer to a complete change of opinion, attitude, or position on a particular matter. It is derived from the French words "volte" meaning "turn" and "face" meaning "face." This term is often employed to describe sudden and dramatic reversals or flip-flops in one's beliefs, principles, or actions.

    Volte-faces can occur in various contexts, such as politics, personal relationships, or professional settings. For example, a politician who consistently advocated for certain policies may suddenly adopt opposing views and publicly denounce their previous stances. Similarly, someone involved in a dispute with another person may undergo a volte-face in their feelings or actions towards them, suddenly turning from animosity to friendship.

    The concept of volte-faces implies an abrupt change that is unexpected or surprising to others. It is often characterized by a 180-degree shift, leaving those observing or affected by the volte-face confused or bewildered. The reasons behind such turnarounds can vary widely, including personal interests, changing circumstances, new information or perspectives, or political expediency.

    Volte-faces can evoke skepticism, distrust, or criticism, particularly when they appear insincere or motivated solely by a desire for personal gain or popularity. However, in some cases, they may result from genuine introspection, growth, or a reevaluation of beliefs. Overall, volte-faces represent significant, sometimes controversial, shifts in opinions or positions that can have far-reaching consequences for individuals and the contexts in which they occur.

Common Misspellings for VOLTE-FACES

  • colte-faces
  • bolte-faces
  • golte-faces
  • folte-faces
  • vilte-faces
  • vklte-faces
  • vllte-faces
  • vplte-faces
  • v0lte-faces
  • v9lte-faces
  • vokte-faces
  • vopte-faces
  • voote-faces
  • volre-faces
  • volfe-faces
  • volge-faces
  • volye-faces
  • vol6e-faces
  • vol5e-faces
  • volteefaced

Etymology of VOLTE-FACES

The word "volte-face" is derived from French, specifically from the verb "volter" which means "to turn around" and the noun "face" which means "face". It entered the English language in the early 19th century and refers to a complete change of opinion, attitude, or action. The plural form of "volte-face" is "volte-faces", suggesting multiple instances of such changes.