conversely

adverb

con·​verse·​ly kən-ˈvərs-lē 

ˈkän-ˌvərs-

: 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

Synonyms of conversely

• again
• if anything

Examples of conversely in a Sentence

she cannot stand sugary food; conversely, her husband is fond of sweets

Recent Examples on the Web

Tests can help identify the excellent students attending mediocre high schools and, conversely, the mediocre students attending excellent schools. —Idrees Kahloon, The Atlantic, 9 June 2026

The Leafs, conversely, will only get one chance to get this first pick right. —Joshua Kloke, New York Times, 2 June 2026

The competing narratives — that rich people are hoarding homes or conversely that the tax measure is government overreach — are being promulgated by campaigns with war chests that have grown substantially in recent days. —Jennifer Van Grove, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 May 2026

Inclusive advertising, conversely, significantly boosts sales, loyalty, and overall brand growth. —Sonia Thompson, Forbes.com, 19 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1730, in the meaning defined above