retrospectively

[re-truh-spek-tiv-lee]

adverb

1. with contemplation of past situations, events, etc..

   You should examine your relationship retrospectively.

2. with retrospective effect; retroactively.

   The law operates retrospectively.

Word History and Origins

Origin of retrospectively¹

First recorded in 1600–10; retrospective ( def. ) + -ly ( def. )

Example Sentences

In the past, these workers have then been paid retrospectively.

From BBC

"While further safety measures are welcome, robust safety testing should take place before products are put on the market - not retrospectively when harm has taken place," he said.

From BBC

The council told him the incident was properly logged at the time and it was not possible to modify records retrospectively, but later admitted this was not the case.

From BBC

Outposts rebranded as "young settlements" are being retrospectively legalised as the government directs funds towards them.

From BBC

Mr O'Brien and Mr Blackburn applied for further compensation following the rule changes, but last year the new Labour government said those who had previously received payouts could not claim back the deductions retrospectively.

From BBC