reverse is the case

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reverse is the case" is not standard in written English and may cause confusion.
It could be used in contexts where you want to indicate that the opposite situation is true, but it is better to use more common expressions. Example: "While many believe that the new policy will benefit employees, the reverse is the case; it actually creates more challenges for them."

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The reverse is the case.

The Economist

In fact, the reverse is the case.

The New York Times

In fact the reverse is the case.

The Guardian

The reverse is the case now.

The New Yorker

The reverse is the case for the downlink.

The Economist

"For higher education, the reverse is the case".

Independent

As The Devil's Double attests, the reverse is the case.

Independent

In fact the reverse is the case - they are down 5.4p at 333.3p.

The Guardian - Business

If the osmotic pressure of plasma becomes low, the reverse is the case.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The coalition acts as if it inherited a recession and delivered growth when actually the reverse is the case.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Actually, the reverse was the case.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "reverse is the case", ensure the context is clear and that the statement it contradicts is readily apparent to the reader. This helps avoid confusion and ensures effective communication.

Common error

Avoid using "reverse is the case" when the situation isn't a direct opposite but rather a nuanced difference. This phrase implies a complete reversal, so ensure that accurately reflects the scenario.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reverse is the case" functions as a transitional expression. It serves to introduce a statement that contradicts or negates a prior assertion. As noted by Ludwig AI, while acceptable, more common expressions might be preferred for clarity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

45%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "reverse is the case" serves as a transitional expression, indicating that the opposite of a preceding statement is true. Ludwig AI indicates that while the phrase is grammatically acceptable and relatively common across diverse domains like news, science, and encyclopedias, more direct alternatives, such as "the opposite is true" or "the contrary is true", may offer greater clarity in certain contexts. When employing "reverse is the case", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being contradicted to prevent ambiguity. Though generally neutral in tone, consider the specific audience and purpose to determine if a more formal or informal alternative would be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the opposite is true

More direct and commonly used alternative.

the contrary is true

Similar to "the opposite is true", but slightly more formal.

the inverse is true

Uses a more technical term, "inverse", suggesting a direct mathematical or logical opposite.

it's the other way around

More informal and conversational, indicating a reversal of a situation.

the situation is inverted

Emphasizes the reversal or turning upside down of a situation.

the reality is the opposite

Highlights a contrast between a perceived truth and the actual situation.

it's just the opposite

Simple and direct, emphasizing the contrary nature of the situation.

the actual situation is reversed

Focuses on the factual reversal of events or circumstances.

things are the other way around

Similar to "it's the other way around", but emphasizes a broader scope.

the facts are quite the opposite

Highlights the contradictory nature of the facts involved.

FAQs

What does "reverse is the case" mean?

The phrase "reverse is the case" means that the opposite of what was previously stated or believed is actually true. It indicates a complete reversal of a situation or idea.

How can I use "reverse is the case" in a sentence?

You can use "reverse is the case" to contradict a previous statement. For example, "Many people think this policy will help, but the "reverse is the case"; it will actually hurt more people."

What can I say instead of "reverse is the case"?

You can use alternatives like "the opposite is true", "the contrary is true", or "it's the other way around" depending on the context.

Is "reverse is the case" formal or informal?

The phrase "reverse is the case" is generally considered neutral in tone, suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though alternatives might be preferable in very formal writing.