conversely

adverb

con·​verse·​ly kən-ˈvərs-lē How to pronounce conversely (audio)
ˈkän-ˌvərs-
Synonyms of conversely
: in a contrasting or opposite way
used to introduce a statement that contrasts with a previous statement or presents a differing interpretation or possibility
The jurors' decision not to ask to rehear the experts' testimony could be an indication that they accepted their opinions at face value or, conversely, that they were unimpressed.Manuel Roig-Franzia
If this active gene is a mutation that would otherwise have been recessive, it can lead to disease. Conversely, if the silenced gene is harmful in some way, imprinting can be beneficial.Michael Reilly

Examples of conversely in a Sentence

she cannot stand sugary food; conversely, her husband is fond of sweets
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Parton, conversely, seemed to embrace all comers without wariness. David Kamp, HollywoodReporter, 27 Aug. 2026 But conversely, Ukrainians should not die in warfare because their leaders are undermined in the pursuit of unattainable values alone. Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Money, 19 Aug. 2026 The new owners wanted to preserve the intimate atmosphere of the bedrooms and, conversely, incorporate the kitchen into the home’s living and dining area. Belén Afonso, Architectural Digest, 19 Aug. 2026 So, heirs shouldn't assume that a creditor's claim automatically means the house will be sold — or, conversely, that inheriting the house means it's protected from the deceased person's debts. Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 18 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for conversely

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1730, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of conversely was circa 1730

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Cite this Entry

“Conversely.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conversely. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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