Synonyms for

Retroactive

Verb / ˌretrəʊˈæktɪv / Another word for retroactive — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

applying to a past event or period, or taking effect from a past date

Synonyms & similar words

proactive retro expostfacto backward-looking retrospective backward retrogressive regressive reverting recurrent past former prior preceding earlier elapsed bygone historical antecedent ancient old outmoded obsolete

Example sentences

  1. The retroactive pay raise made the employees very happy.
  2. The retroactive tax cut meant that people received a refund for taxes they had already paid.
  3. The new law was retroactive, so it applied to past cases as well.
  4. The retroactive change in policy affected people who had already made plans.
  5. The retroactive cancellation of the event disappointed many people who had already made travel arrangements.

Quotes

  • 'Retrospective laws are, indeed, generally unjust; and, as has been observed, they are generally RETROACTIVE, BECAUSE IT IS NOT TILL AFTER THE EVENT THAT THEIR INJUSTICE BEGINS TO OPERATE.' - Thomas Babington Macaulay
  • 'The retroactive effect of technological development has been to bring new meaning to the phrase 'hindsight is 20/20.' - Arthur Miller
  • 'I'm not talking about making retroactive laws or anything, just making sure that the ones we have are enforced.' - John Ashcroft

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