conversely

adverb

con·​verse·​ly kən-ˈvərs-lē How to pronounce conversely (audio)
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

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.
Rich Pine, conversely, evokes the aroma of the outdoors, a wet and earthy scent. Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 18 Sep. 2025 But while that may serve Natthaphong’s interests to appear as the chief agitator for reform, losing his military foil could conversely prove problematic. Charlie Campbell, Time, 15 Sep. 2025 Nejatian, conversely, will have a base salary of $1 and no bonus. Amanda Gerut, Fortune, 11 Sep. 2025 Guardians starter Slade Cecconi — who conversely had the best game of his career — didn’t allow a hit through seven innings. Kansas City Star, 9 Sep. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Conversely.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conversely. Accessed 29 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on conversely

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!