Why do we call it a u-turn when it's an "n" on the sign?

Answer 1

The "u" is upside down on the sign because that's how it looks when you start the turn. Think of it as a completed "u" as viewed from the direction traffic is going when you're finished making the term. The sign has to be upside down so that it can warn you not to make the turn before you've started it. Also, the "n" metaphor doesn't work for a more concrete reason: people write a u with a single stroke, but the n requires two – down, then up and over. A U-turn is made in one single, sweeping motion, much like the writing of the letter itself.

Answer 2

because a U (notice the captial U does not have the little tail the the lower case n has) is the motion. we dont turn left, turn right a little bit to make that little tail on the lower case n and then turn left again to complete an "n" turn. It is a U turn because it is a fluid motion in the shape of a U and only can be made while making a turn towards the left which is why it is upside down on the sign.

Answer 3

Because the word n-turn had already been used.

Answer 4

i don't know properly but be upside down to see it as a u turn.

Answer 5

Why do we drive on parkways and park on driveways?

Beats the **** out of me.

Answer 6

because your making a u but to represent it, its easier to make a n