conversely
/ˈkɒn.vɜːs.li/Used to introduce a statement that is the direct opposite or reverse of what was just said. It shows that two things have a mirror relationship — if one is true, the opposite is also true in the other direction.
- Exercise improves health; conversely, a lack of movement causes illness.
- High demand raises prices; conversely, low demand tends to lower them.
- Men rated the film highly; conversely, women found it disappointing.
Adinary Nuance
Conversely belongs to a group of linking adverbs that include on the other hand, however, and in contrast — but they are not interchangeable. Conversely signals a precise logical flip: if Statement A is true, then the reverse also holds in Statement B. Think of it as a mirror, not just a contrast. "On the other hand" introduces a different angle or competing point — it doesn't require a strict logical reversal. "However" introduces an exception or contradiction, not a symmetrical opposite. In IELTS and academic essays, conversely is the strongest choice when you want to show that two ideas are exact inverses of each other; using it loosely where only a vague contrast exists will sound unnatural to a careful reader.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- Ngược lại
- Spanish
- A la inversa
- Chinese
- 相反地
- Japanese
- 逆に
- Korean
- 반대로
Etymology
From Latin "conversus," the past participle of "convertere" meaning "to turn around." The adverbial English form has been in use since the late 16th century, originally in logical and philosophical writing.
Common phrases
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is 'conversely' formal or informal?
- It is formal. You will see it often in academic essays, IELTS writing, research papers, and business reports. It sounds out of place in casual speech or text messages — say 'on the other hand' or 'the opposite is also true' in everyday conversation.
- What is the difference between 'conversely' and 'on the other hand'?
- 'Conversely' signals a direct logical reversal — the second point is the precise mirror of the first. 'On the other hand' simply introduces a contrasting or competing point, which doesn't need to be an exact opposite. When in doubt, if you can't clearly state the logical flip, use 'on the other hand' instead.
- Can I start a sentence with 'conversely'?
- Yes. It is perfectly correct and very common in academic writing to start a sentence with 'Conversely,' followed by a comma. For example: 'Conversely, a stricter policy could reduce crime rates.' This is a standard IELTS and academic essay technique.
- Is 'conversely' useful for IELTS Task 2?
- Yes, it is a high-value linking word for IELTS Academic Writing Task 2. Examiners reward precise cohesion, and 'conversely' shows you can express a logical reversal clearly and formally. Use it to connect two contrasting ideas that are true mirror images of each other.