Definition

Done after something has happened, affecting things that occurred earlier.

Example

The new law was applied retroactively, changing the outcomes of previous cases.

Conversation

Did you hear that the company is changing the policy retroactively?

Yeah, I saw that! It seems a bit unfair to apply changes to past events.

I know, right? It makes it confusing for everyone involved.

Exactly! I wish they would just make changes from now on.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Retroactively → It is formed from "retro-" (meaning backward) and "act" (from Latin "agere", meaning to do or to act) and the suffix "-ively" (meaning in a manner). The word "retroactively" means acting backward in time, often referring to applying a law or decision to a time before it was enacted.

Memory Tip

Think of 'backward' ('retro-') actions ('act') that apply to a previous time — that's what retroactively means.

Visually Confused Words