Synonyms of reversal

reversal

noun

ri-ˈvər-səl 

1

as in reverse

a change in status for the worse usually temporarily

the company's long-term strategy is sound, and they should be able to weather this latest reversal

Synonyms & Similar Words

• reverse
• setback
• reversion
• lapse
• decline
• knock
• disappointment
• downfall
• turnaround
• regression
• frustration
• breakdown
• collapse
• fall
• recession
• letdown
• turnabout
• relapse
• undoing
• retrogression
• comedown
• descent
• down
• crash
• ruin
• meltdown

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• status quo

2

as in turnaround

a changing from one policy or point of view to virtually its exact opposite

parents need to be consistent in their discipline policy, as reversals will only undermine the whole process

Synonyms & Similar Words

• turnaround
• change of heart
• denial
• turnabout
• volte-face
• about-face
• hesitation
• about-turn
• U-turn
• flip-flop
• retraction
• retreat
• wobbling
• reconsideration
• disavowal
• renunciation
• recantation
• switcheroo
• repudiation
• disaffirmance
• disownment
• second thought
• vacillation
• indecision
• bait and switch
• irresolution
• wavering
• shilly-shallying

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of reversal

The 2024 ruling striking down the law as unconstitutional had been on hold pending appeal, so Wednesday’s reversal does not change the status quo. — ABC News, 29 July 2026

The 2024 ruling striking down the law as unconstitutional had been on hold pending appeal, so Wednesday's reversal does not change the status quo. — CBS News, 29 July 2026

One new program seeks to directly address overdoses by placing boxes of the overdose reversal drug naloxone at every subway stop. — Scott Maucione, NPR, 27 July 2026

The moves were a sharp and rapid reversal from last week, when prices gained more than 9% and Brent rose as high as $102. — Chantal Da Silva, NBC news, 27 July 2026