reverse psychology
Americannoun
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The agents used reverse psychology to help coax as many of the criminals to the event as possible.
From BBC • Aug. 7, 2024
By using reverse psychology, it had essentially inspired people to make them think plastic-free toys were possible, an expert in corporate sustainability said.
From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 7, 2023
As Mr. Martino told it, his father lured him into music using a bit of reverse psychology, forbidding him to touch a guitar stored under the bed.
From Washington Post • Nov. 2, 2021
But if he wants to play reverse psychology, sure: Don’t retire.
From Slate • May 7, 2021
Annabelle wonders if she’s a victim of reverse psychology.
From "A Heart in a Body in the World" by Deb Caletti
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.