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

Although Infantino insisted that the FIFA Disciplinary Committee makes its decisions independently, the reversal caused outrage among many in the soccer world. — Chuck Schilken, Los Angeles Times, 14 July 2026

In particular, Waller noted the impact that the artificial intelligence boom is having, outweighing the waning impact from tariffs and the energy reversal. — Jeff Cox, CNBC, 13 July 2026

The most interesting consumer behavior Hammett is seeing is a reversal of the traditional travel planning process. — Jeff Fromm, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026

Included in this is a reversal of how things usually go in the balance of supply and demand between launch vehicles and satellite operators, Ars reports. — Eric Berger, ArsTechnica, 10 July 2026