What does the expression "to turn on a dime" mean?

Answer 1

A dime is very small, so turning on a dime (turning sharply and quickly) is very very difficult under most circumstances. It can be used in two ways:

1) to mean operating under extremely good control, as in a car that has really good steering. (love this car, it turns on a dime !)

2) Someone is displaying erratic behavior or has weak convictions (changes opinions at the drop of a hat, I don't trust him, he'll turn on a dime for no apparent reason).

Answer 2

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RE:
What does the expression "to turn on a dime" mean?

Answer 3

To turn very quickly and sharply. A dime has a very short circumference, so if you turned on the dime's circumference, it would be a very speedy turn.

Answer 4

turn on a dime - have a small turning radius; "My little subcompact car turns on a dime!"

driving - the act of controlling and steering the movement of a vehicle or animal

turn - change orientation or direction, also in the abstract sense; "Turn towards me"; "The mugger turned and fled before I could see his face"; "She turned from herself and learned to listen to others' needs"

Answer 5

You are correct. Further, it's like saying, "I understand the process", in this case, understanding that the thinking process is engaged (so to speak!).