Definition

Relating to something that is opposite in order, nature, or effect; reversed or inverted.

Example

The inverse relationship between the two variables shows that as one increases, the other decreases.

Conversation

Did you notice how the results were inverse to what we expected?

Yeah, it was surprising to see that outcome!

I guess sometimes things just turn out inverse to what we plan.

Exactly! It's a good reminder to keep an open mind.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A concept or element that is opposite or contrary to something else, often used in mathematics to refer to a number that, when combined with another, results in a specific identity element.

Example

In mathematics, the inverse of 5 is -5 when considering addition.

Conversation

I was studying math, and I came across the concept of inverse functions.

Oh really? Those can be pretty tricky to grasp at first.

Yeah, I found it interesting how the inverse can help solve equations.

Root Explanation

Inverse → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "vertere" (meaning to turn). The word describes something that is turned in the opposite direction or is contrary to something else.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'not' in its usual position ('in-') and is 'turned' ('vertere') around — that's why inverse means the opposite.

Visually Confused Words