vice versa

adverb

vice ver·​sa ˈvīs-ˈvər-sə  ˌvī-si-ˈvər-sə 

: with the order changed : with the relations reversed : conversely

Examples of vice versa in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Use the Wrong Soap Avoid using dishwashing detergent when hand-washing dishes and vice versa. —Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 7 Mar. 2026

Her efforts as Venus’ conversation partner are described with the same deadpan matter-of-factness as Rika’s warehouse job, making the latter seem just as strange and unrealistic as the former—and vice versa. —Literary Hub, 5 Mar. 2026

Transplanting Seedlings Outdoors What applies to the hardening off process is also true for the timing of planting seedlings—earlier last frost means earlier transplanting, and vice versa. —Nadia Hassani, The Spruce, 3 Mar. 2026

Calls logged as reckless driving can turn out to have been road rage and may be missing from the data, or vice versa. —Rose Evans updated March 3, Idaho Statesman, 3 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin

First Known Use

1601, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

vice versa

adverb

vi·​ce ver·​sa

ˌvī-si-ˈvər-sə, 

(ˈ)vīs-ˈvər-

: with the order turned around

exchange money for tokens, rather than vice versa

Etymology

from Latin vice versa "with the order turned around," from vice "in place of, instead" and versa, form of versus "turned," from vertere "to turn" — related to converse, reverse, versatile