The English language is full of interesting phrases and idioms that can sometimes be confusing to understand. One such phrase is “brace about.” This article will explore the definition, origin, and meaning of brace about, as well as its associations, synonyms, antonyms, and examples of how it can be used in sentences.
Definitions
Brace about is a nautical term that means to turn a ship around so that it is facing in the opposite direction. It is a maneuver that is often used when a ship needs to change course quickly or avoid an obstacle. The phrase can also be used more generally to mean to turn or change direction.
Origin
The phrase brace about has its origins in the world of sailing. In the early days of sailing, ships were powered by wind and were steered using a rudder. To change direction, sailors would adjust the position of the sails, which would cause the ship to turn. Bracing about was a common maneuver used to turn a ship quickly and efficiently.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, brace about means to turn a ship around so that it is facing in the opposite direction. Merriam-Webster defines it as “to turn a ship around by bracing the yards.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “to turn a ship around by adjusting the position of the sails.”
Associations
The phrase brace about is often associated with sailing and nautical activities. It is also associated with quick and sudden changes in direction.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for brace about include turn around, change course, pivot, and reverse direction.
Antonyms
Antonyms of brace about include continue straight, stay the course, and maintain direction.
The same root words
The phrase brace about is made up of two root words: brace and about. Brace can mean to support or strengthen, while about can mean in the vicinity of or approximately. Together, they create a phrase that means to turn a ship around.
Example Sentences
- The captain ordered the crew to brace about to avoid the oncoming storm.
- The ship braced about and headed back to port.
- We need to brace about and head in the opposite direction.
- The sailor quickly braced about to avoid a collision with another ship.
- The captain’s quick thinking allowed the crew to brace about and avoid a dangerous reef.