1.
conversely; on the contrary; in reverse
indicates the opposite or reverse of what was stated or expected
逆に考えてみよう。
Let's think about it the other way around.
良くなるどころか、逆に悪くなった。
Far from getting better, it actually got worse.
逆に言えば、チャンスでもある。
Conversely speaking, it's also an opportunity.
2.
rather; instead; actually
introduces an unexpected or contrasting result or perspective
怒られると思ったが、逆に褒められた。
I thought I'd be scolded, but instead I was praised.
節約したつもりが、逆に出費が増えた。
I intended to save money, but expenses increased instead.
逆に聞きたいんだけど。
Actually, I'd like to ask you something.
USAGE:
- 逆に言えば (conversely speaking)
- 逆に考えると (if you think about it the other way)
- 逆に聞くけど (let me ask you instead)
CONVERSATIONAL USE:
逆に is very common in casual conversation to introduce:
- An opposite perspective
- An unexpected result
- A question turned back to the listener
SIMILAR EXPRESSIONS:
- 反対に (on the contrary - more formal)
- かえって (rather, on the contrary - similar nuance)
- むしろ (rather, instead)
RELATED:
- 逆 (reverse, opposite - noun/adjective)
- 反対 (opposite)
- かえって (rather, instead)