conversely
Britishadverb
Explanation
The word conversely is an adverb that means "the opposite" or "on the other hand." It is often used to introduce an idea that is different from one stated before. You say the photo is a fake. Conversely, the photographer claims it's real. The adverb conversely has its origin in the Latin word convertere, which means "to turn about." In the following quote by Journalist Andy Rooney note how the word balances the two sentences: "The closing of a door can bring blessed privacy and comfort - the opening, terror. Conversely, the closing of a door can be a sad and final thing - the opening a wonderfully joyous moment."
Vocabulary lists containing conversely
"Deep Survival," Vocabulary from the science writing
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"Deep Survival" by Laurence Gonzales
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How Dare the Sun Rise
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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.
Conversely, the gap narrows significantly among younger children.
From MarketWatch • May 29, 2026
Conversely, it would likely be welcomed by the United Auto Workers and other U.S. unions, who could see increases in work and employment as a result of the rule.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 29, 2026
Conversely, if you knew an incurable cancer would kill you at 65, you’d probably take Social Security at your earliest eligibility of 62.
From Barron's • May 21, 2026
"Conversely, tourism can involve negative experiences that potentially lead to health problems, paralleling the process of promoting entropy increase. A prominent example is the public health crisis of COVID-19."
From Science Daily • May 4, 2026
Conversely, when a rain squall is replenishing your fresh-water supplies, you also know that the humidity will affect your cured provisions and that some will probably go bad, turning pasty and green.
From "Life of Pi" by Yann Martel
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.
