Reversal Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/riˈvɜrʃəl/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A change from one direction or course of action to another, often sudden or unexpected.

Examples

• The company had to make a reversal in their strategy due to unexpected competition.
• The athlete’s reversal of fortune surprised everyone, as he went from being a rookie to a champion in one season.
• The politician’s reversal on the issue caused controversy and undermined her credibility.
• After months of criticism, the company finally reversed its stance on the issue and apologized for their mistake.
• The athlete’s reversal on the field showed incredible agility and quick thinking.

Synonyms

• Turn
• Shift
• Change

Antonyms

• Consistency
• Sustainability
• Persistence

Etymology

The word “reversal” comes from the Latin “reversus,” meaning “turned back” or “returned.”

Usage Notes

In formal writing, it’s essential to use “reversal” in a context that explains the sudden or unexpected change in direction.

Cultural References

Reversal has been referenced in popular culture, such as in the phrase “reversal of fortune,” which describes a sudden change in one’s circumstances, often for the better.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Reversal is often used in idiomatic expressions, such as “reversal of fortune” or “reversal of roles.”

Related Words or Phrases

Volt-face, about-face, U-turn, and turnaround are all related to the concept of reversal.

Colocations

Reversal is often used in conjunction with words like sudden, unexpected, and dramatic to emphasize the suddenness and intensity of the change.

Frequency of Use

Reversal is a relatively rare word, but its usage has increased in recent years due to its association with sudden changes in strategy or direction.

Common Misspellings

Some common misspellings of “reversal” include “reversal,” “reveresal,” and “reverasl.”