inversely

“Inversely” means in an opposite, reversed, or reciprocal manner, and it is especially common in technical and scientific contexts. It often appears in the phrase “inversely proportional,” indicating that one quantity decreases as another increases according to a fixed relationship. For example, if pressure increases while the volume of a gas decreases under certain conditions, the relationship can be described as inverse. Outside formal or educational writing, speakers may prefer the simpler phrase “in reverse.” The word is derived from “inverse,” which in turn comes from the Latin verb “vertere,” meaning “to turn.” “Inversely” is useful because it gives a precise, concise way to describe reversed order, direction, proportion, or correspondence.

In an inverse or reversed manner; in the opposite order, direction, or proportion.

Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.

Where does inversely come from?

“Inversely” is an adverb formed from the adjective “inverse,” with the suffix “-ly.” “Inverse” comes through French from Latin “inversus,” a past participle of “vertere,” meaning “to turn.” The same Latin root underlies cognates such as “invert,” “inversion,” and “inverted,” all of which express turning, reversal, or an opposite relationship.

How inversely is actually used

It is a formal or technical adverb, especially common in mathematical, scientific, and economic writing. In everyday speech, “in reverse” is often more natural.

Easily confused with inversely

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Words and phrases paired with inversely

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Rhymes with inversely