works in reverse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "works in reverse" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It means that something is happening or functioning in the opposite direction or order. Example: "The assembly line for this product works in reverse, with the final step being the first and the initial step being the last."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And reciprocity works in reverse.

The New York Times

Now that works in reverse," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

With DecodeMe it works in reverse.

The Economist

This, too, works in reverse.

The New York Times

But metagenomics works in reverse.

The New York Times - Science

Only here the illusion works in reverse.

The New York Times

But the process works in reverse, too.

The New York Times - Arts

(This works in reverse as well).

The New York Times

The same process works in reverse.

The New York Times

In Norway, gravity works in reverse.

The Guardian - Travel

But the process also works in reverse.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "works in reverse" to clearly indicate that a process, logic, or mechanism functions in the opposite way from what is typically expected. It can be useful for highlighting unexpected or counterintuitive aspects of a system.

Common error

Avoid using "works in reverse" when simply describing a complex process with multiple steps. It's best suited for situations where the entire operational flow is inverted, not just a segment of it.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "works in reverse" functions as a predicate, describing how a subject (e.g., a process, a system, an idea) operates. Ludwig AI examples showcase its versatility across diverse contexts, indicating a reversal of expected or typical function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "works in reverse" is a versatile and commonly used expression that indicates a process, system, or concept operates in the opposite direction or manner from what is typically expected. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appears frequently in news, science, and business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly conveys the inverted nature of the subject being described. Alternatives such as "operates conversely" or "is the reverse of" can offer similar meanings with slight variations in emphasis. Being aware of common errors, such as misapplying it to only partially reversed processes, will further enhance clarity in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is the reverse of

Emphasizes that something is the direct opposite of something else.

is the other way round

Indicates that the correct arrangement or order is the opposite of what was initially considered.

operates conversely

Implies an opposing action or effect, emphasizing the contrast in operation.

functions oppositely

Focuses on the opposing function of something, highlighting the change in how it works.

applies in the opposite direction

Clarifies that a rule or effect is applicable when considered from the reverse perspective.

is true the other way around

Highlights that a statement or principle is valid when the subjects are reversed.

is inverted

Implies a reversal of order or position, emphasizing the flipped nature of the situation.

runs counter to

Highlights that something opposes or contradicts the norm.

is backward

Suggests a movement or progression in the opposite direction.

is antithetical

Denotes a fundamental opposition or contrast between two things.

FAQs

How can I use "works in reverse" in a sentence?

You can use "works in reverse" to describe a process or principle that operates in the opposite direction of what is expected. For instance, "Unlike traditional auctions, a Dutch auction "works in reverse", starting with a high price and decreasing it until a buyer accepts".

What is a good substitute for "works in reverse"?

Alternatives to "works in reverse" include "operates conversely", "functions oppositely", or "is the reverse of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "the process works in reverse"?

Yes, "the process works in reverse" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase. It indicates that the steps or stages of the process are carried out in the opposite order than usual.

What does it mean when something is described as "working in reverse"?

When something is described as ""works in reverse"", it means that it functions in the opposite manner, order, or direction compared to the typical or expected way. For example, a system designed to solve a problem might instead be creating it.