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conversely

adverb

con·​verse·​ly kən-ˈvərs-lē How to pronounce conversely (audio)
ˈkän-ˌvərs-
Synonyms of converselynext
: 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.
Gentry, conversely, spoke with finality after the game. Haley Sawyer, Oc Register, 30 Nov. 2025 Fair or reciprocal trade, conversely, would slightly reduce returns for many investors to substantially improve conditions for a few workers. Z. John Zhang, Fortune, 28 Nov. 2025 For a more laidback vibe, add boots; heels, conversely, make the whole situation feel fancy. Alison Syrett Cleary, Glamour, 26 Nov. 2025 Trump, conversely, excels at generating massive reach and dominating conversations across platforms, something that may be easier to do in an Oval Office confrontation. Newsweek Staff, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Nov. 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 10 Dec. 2025.

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