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.
They could come out of hibernation too early and not have any nectar to feed on, or conversely the flowers could come out before the bees appear.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 29, 2026
And conversely, industrial businesses moved into working-class neighborhoods because the land was cheaper and the zoning sometimes iffy.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 15, 2026
Newcastle are one of the smaller investments in PIF's portfolio and, conversely, senior figures at the club have always maintained it is also one of the fund's biggest in terms of engagement.
From BBC ● Apr. 17, 2026
An elephant's trunk can surpass a human's height and lift trees -- a marvel of strength that's conversely so gentle it can grasp a tortilla chip without breaking it.
From Barron's ● Feb. 12, 2026
When you’re giving evidence in court, you’re unlikely to address the judge with “yaknowwhamean?”; and conversely the language you use in court would cause your peer group back on the street to fall about laughing.
From "Words Like Loaded Pistols" by Sam Leith
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.
