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

There are hints of Gilmore Girls in the show’s quaint setting and generational role reversal, traces of Dawson’s Creek in its adolescent earnestness. — Judy Berman, Time, 4 Aug. 2026

Continuing the reversal of roles, Aesha helps out in cabins while Kayley takes charge of dinner service. — Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 4 Aug. 2026

Stevens views the relocation as a reversal of the Great Migration of the early 20th century, when thousands of Black families relocated from the South to the North to escape racial injustice and better their lives. — Brittney Melton, NPR, 3 Aug. 2026

Trump posts, traders pounce Traders profit when prices jump up or down, and with his taste for cliffhangers, threats and policy reversals, America’s only reality-TV president provides plenty of potentially market-moving content. — Bernard Condon, Los Angeles Times, 2 Aug. 2026