# conversely

/ˈkɑnvɝsɫi/ (US) · /kənvˈɜːsli/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/conversely
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. on the other hand

adverb · CEFR C1 · Academic · Formal

you use this to introduce an idea that is the opposite of the one you just mentioned.

For teachers: used to introduce a statement or idea which reverses the logic of the previous one or presents a contrasting perspective.

- Poor lighting can make a room feel small; conversely, bright walls can make it feel much larger.
- He argued that high taxes would discourage investment; conversely, his opponent maintained that they would provide the necessary infrastructure for long-term growth.

Usage: Usually placed at the beginning of a sentence or clause to provide a transition between two contrasting ideas.

Teaching tip: This is a high-level transition word common in academic writing; students often confuse it with 'contrary', which is an adjective or noun.

## Examples

- He is very shy; conversely, his sister is loud.
- The first half of the year was profitable; conversely, the second half saw significant losses.
- While some critics praised the film's visual style, others conversely argued that the lack of plot made it unwatchable.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.