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

This change in priorities has resulted in a stalling or reversal of the development of climate change policy. — Jon McGowan, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026

This possible reversal has been in the making for about five months! — Todd Gordon, CNBC, 8 July 2026

There’s another, less fatalistic response to both the Balogun red card reversal and the economic malaise. — Liz Hoffman, semafor.com, 7 July 2026

Both reversals amounted to a financial death knell for his campaign. — Terry Collins, USA Today, 7 July 2026