RE-VERSAL Synonyms: 54 Similar and Opposite Words

reversal

noun

ri-ˈvər-səl

Definition of reversal

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

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

status quo

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

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of reversal New research from the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis suggests the story may actually be one of reversal, not stasis—with a significant split along generational, even intra-generational lines. — Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 22 July 2026 There are plenty of reasons to be suspicious of the FDA’s baffling reversal on Sunday. — Victor Tangermann, Futurism, 22 July 2026 New data from the executive coaching firm Vistage found that more CEOs expect economic conditions to worsen over the next year than those who expect improvement, a reversal from the relative optimism of this time last year. — Aytekin Tank, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026 Defense and conditioning needs work In what has been a role reversal for a man who was lauded as a stopper in Ann Arbor, Lendeborg’s hot shooting has been balanced out by his unfocused defense. — Joseph Dycus, Mercury News, 19 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for reversal

Recent Examples of Synonyms for reversal

Noun

The synergy thesis that drives value in B2B services consolidation often works in reverse in consumer portfolios.

— Gustaf Lundberg Toresson, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026
The design, available in six standard sizes, is handwoven from 100% Belgian linen flax and features a cotton-linen reverse.

— Maria Conti, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 July 2026

Definition of reverse

Noun

By many definitions, Pfister, 47, is an American turnaround story.

— Kyung Lah, CNN Money, 25 July 2026
There are many reasons for the this turnaround, but one can be found on the left side of the diamond, extremely close to the fans lucky enough to sit in those box seats.

— Dan Freedman, Forbes.com, 25 July 2026

Definition of turnaround

Noun

Hamlin’s strong second-place finish was a setback for the two drivers competing with him for the points lead — particularly Tyler Reddick, who finished 30th after a collision with Alex Bowman on Lap 183.

— Jordan Bianchi, New York Times, 20 July 2026
Despite the setbacks, Ali has continued to voice his enthusiasm for the project, if it ever gets picked up.

— Mekishana Pierre, Entertainment Weekly, 20 July 2026

Definition of setback

Noun

So will sending letters threatening bad faith denial of claim lawsuit to insurance carriers that say no.

— Jay Adkisson, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026
The plan had been held up by the state's denial of drinking water and wastewater permits, and an ICE lawyer filed paperwork Wednesday withdrawing his agency's appeal of the denial.

— ABC News, ABC News, 22 July 2026

Definition of denial

Noun

Another meeting was scheduled for next week with the club’s media team and, though Pereira has experience of working with Marinakis previously at Olympiacos in Greece, the whole volte-face appears to have completely caught him out.

— Daniel Taylor, New York Times, 1 July 2026
This volte-face was not just about electoral politics.

— Robert F. Worth, The Atlantic, 17 Jan. 2026

Definition of volte-face

Noun

In a striking about-face, Janza immediately announced that Slovenia would cancel its previous recognition of Palestine and move its embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

— Larry Luxner, Sun Sentinel, 20 July 2026
However, there was an about-face when security concerns prevented her and their two children, Prince Archie, 7, and Princess Lilibet, 5, from a full visit to Harry’s home country.

— Simon Perry, PEOPLE, 16 July 2026

Definition of about-face

Noun

Trust reduces hesitation, especially when people are comparing options fast and looking for a reason to stay.

— Forbes.com, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026
Rather, congressional hesitation on what would be the largest election reform in decades reflects an awareness of constituent needs and lawmakers’ own reelection risks.

— SoRelle Wyckoff Gaynor, The Conversation, 17 July 2026

Definition of hesitation

Browse Nearby Words

revering

reversal

reversals

See all Nearby Words

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Style

“Reversal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/reversal. Accessed 26 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of reversal

noun

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