going into reverse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "going into reverse" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something is moving backward or regressing, either literally or metaphorically. Example: "After several years of progress, the company is now going into reverse due to poor management decisions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Business

Education

Politics

Economics

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They were "going into reverse".

The Guardian - Opinion

Some fear it is going into reverse.

The Guardian - Opinion

Both now seem to be going into reverse, he said.

The New York Times

To see this going into reverse is disturbing.

The Guardian

In fact, they seem to be going into reverse.

The Guardian

That positive factor is now going into reverse.

The Economist

Is the Reagan revolution now going into reverse?

The Economist

Sir Michael Wilshaw said that secondary education in these cities was going into reverse.

The Guardian

Neither has it prevented the highly speculative Sydney housing market from going into reverse.

The Guardian - Opinion

It shows little sign of weakening in the present century, let alone of going into reverse.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

He went into reverse.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "going into reverse" when you want to emphasize a reversal of progress or a return to a previous state. This phrase is particularly effective in contexts where forward momentum was expected but is now being undermined.

Common error

Avoid using "going into reverse" solely for literal backward movements; it's most impactful when describing abstract concepts like economic trends, policy changes, or personal development. Otherwise consider more suitable terms like "reversing".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "going into reverse" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often part of a continuous verb tense. It describes a process of regression or reversal, not just in physical movement but also in abstract concepts like economic trends or social progress. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "going into reverse" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe a reversal of progress or a movement backward, both literally and metaphorically. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. It is frequently found in news and business contexts, signaling a negative shift or a concerning trend. While suitable for formal writing, its neutral register makes it accessible for broader audiences. To ensure effective communication, it's best used when emphasizing a reversal of expected forward momentum, avoiding overuse in simple, literal backward movements. As the frequency is very common, and with examples from authoritative sources, the phrase has a consolidated usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

moving backwards

A literal description of reversing direction.

regressing

Implies a return to a less developed state.

slipping back

Suggests a gradual return to a previous, often undesirable, state.

losing ground

Indicates a reduction in progress or advantage.

declining

Suggests a downward trend in quality or quantity.

taking a downturn

Implies a decline, especially in economic conditions.

reverting

Implies a return to a former practice or belief.

deteriorating

Indicates a worsening condition or state.

backsliding

Suggests a moral or ethical decline.

turning around

Indicates that a development, plan or business is not successful, the opposite of what was intended or desired.

FAQs

How can I use "going into reverse" in a sentence?

You can use "going into reverse" to describe a situation where progress is being undone or something is moving backward, such as "After years of improvement, the economy is now "going into reverse"." It's often used metaphorically.

What are some alternatives to "going into reverse"?

Alternatives include "regressing", "declining", or "moving backwards", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "going into reverse" in formal writing?

Yes, "going into reverse" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing trends, policies, or abstract concepts. Its usage is widespread across reputable news and business sources.

What's the difference between "going into reverse" and "reversing"?

"Going into reverse" typically implies a broader, often metaphorical, reversal of progress or a decline. "Reversing" is more literal and usually refers to a physical movement or a specific action being undone. For example, the phrase can be used as a synonym for "turns around".