Conversely
/ˈkɑːnvɜːrsli/
adverbB2
Definition
Conversely means "in the opposite way" or "on the other hand." It is used to connect two ideas that are different or opposite. When you say "conversely," you want the listener or reader to understand that what comes next is a contrast or opposite idea to what was said before.
Was this helpful?
See It in Action
To introduce an opposite idea or fact
- •She loves spicy food; conversely, her brother prefers mild flavors.
- •The north of the country is very cold; conversely, the south is warm all year.
- •He is very outgoing; conversely, his sister is shy and quiet.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "conversely" like "but" or "on the other hand," but it sounds more formal and is used to show clear opposite ideas.
- ✓Picture two arrows pointing in opposite directions, showing two different or opposite thoughts.
- ✓It’s the feeling you get when someone says something, then quickly shows the opposite idea to balance the conversation.
- ✓Sounds like "CON-verse-ly" → imagine a conversation that flips to the other side, like turning a coin over.
- ✓Remember the phrase "on the other hand," which often introduces a contrasting idea, similar to "conversely."
- ✓NOT like "and" (which adds information), "conversely" shows contrast or opposite ideas.
- ✓NOT like "because" (which shows reason), "conversely" shows difference or opposition.
- ✓NOT like "however" (which can be softer), "conversely" clearly points to the opposite or reverse.
Try Other Words
- •On the other hand: used to show an opposite idea (Use when you want a less formal phrase to show contrast)
- •However: used to introduce a contrast or exception (Use when the contrast is softer or less direct)
- •In contrast: used to show clear difference (Use when you want to emphasize the difference between two things)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: "con-" (together, with) + "verse" (turn) + "-ly" (adverb ending) → literally "turning together" or "turned in relation"
- •Etymology: From Latin "conversus," past participle of "convertere," meaning "to turn around"
- •Historical development: Entered English in the 15th century, originally meaning "turned the other way," now used to show opposite ideas
- •Modern usage: Commonly used in formal writing and speech to introduce opposite or contrasting ideas clearly
Reflect & Connect
•How can using "conversely" help you make your ideas clearer in writing or speaking?
•Can you think of a situation where showing the opposite idea with "conversely" changes how someone understands a story or fact?
Fill in the blanks
1.She enjoys cold weather; conversely, he ___ hot climates.
2.The company’s profits increased this year; conversely, their expenses ___.
3.You say you like to work alone; conversely, your friend prefers ___ in a team.
4.The north side of the city is quiet; conversely, the south side is ___ busy.
5.When you say "conversely," you usually want to show an idea that is ___ to the one before.
6.He is very patient; conversely, his sister often gets ___ quickly.
7.In the sentence, "She loves coffee; conversely, he prefers tea," the word "conversely" shows a ___ between their tastes.