conversely

adverb

con·​verse·​ly kən-ˈvərs-lē How to pronounce conversely (audio)
ˈkän-ˌvərs-
: in a contrasting or opposite way
used to introduce a statement that contrasts with a previous statement or presents a differing interpretation or possibility
The jurors' decision not to ask to rehear the experts' testimony could be an indication that they accepted their opinions at face value or, conversely, that they were unimpressed.Manuel Roig-Franzia
If this active gene is a mutation that would otherwise have been recessive, it can lead to disease. Conversely, if the silenced gene is harmful in some way, imprinting can be beneficial.Michael Reilly

Examples of conversely in a Sentence

she cannot stand sugary food; conversely, her husband is fond of sweets
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
High-wage states such as Massachusetts and New York have high child care wages as well, and conversely for low-wage states such as Missouri and South Dakota. Jasmine Laws, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Oct. 2025 Yet, the sudden hysteria has, conversely, inspired a string of misconceptions and wrongful self-diagnoses. Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 26 Oct. 2025 Dowdle, conversely, continued to chug along with 52 rushing yards on seven carries. Diamond Vences, Charlotte Observer, 26 Oct. 2025 Or, conversely, is Xi putting the pieces in place to ensure only loyal generals who share his conviction for reunification are in place, before pressing the button. Charlie Campbell, Time, 23 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for conversely

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1730, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of conversely was circa 1730

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Cite this Entry

“Conversely.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conversely. Accessed 30 Oct. 2025.

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