Synonyms for

Inverse

Verb / ˌɪˈnvɜ:s / Another word for inverse — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Inverse means opposite or reverse in character or nature.

Synonyms & similar words

opposite direct reverse opposite reverse contrary antithetical antipodal antipodean counter flip-side obverse contrapositive reciprocal transposed flipped backwards retrograde retrogressive reversed upside-down

Synonyms by register

Formal

reciprocal opposite contrary reverse

Informal

opposite backwards other way

Literary

counterpart antithesis

Antonyms

direct original forward positive same straight normal

Common collocations

  • inverse relationship
  • inverse proportion
  • inverse function
  • inverse operation
  • inverse square
  • inverse matrix
  • inverse effect

Word family

noun inverse
adjective inverse
adverb inversely

Usage note

Primarily used in mathematics and science to denote an opposite relationship or function. Avoid using informally where 'opposite' or 'reverse' would be clearer.

Example sentences

  1. The inverse of 'hot' is 'cold'.
  2. My sister's personality is the inverse of mine.
  3. The company's profits went in the inverse direction of their sales.
  4. The inverse relationship between exercise and obesity is well-documented.
  5. The inverse of 'yes' is 'no'.

Quotes

  • The inverse of love is not hate, it's indifference. - Elie Wiesel
  • The inverse of beauty is indifference. - Susan Sontag
  • The inverse of truth has a thousand faces, but the truth has only one. - Siddhartha Gautama

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