1.
counterproductive; opposite effect; backfire
A result that is the opposite of what was intended. Used when an action produces a worse outcome than doing nothing.
叱りすぎると逆効果だ。
Scolding too much is counterproductive.
ダイエットのつもりが逆効果で太ってしまった。
I intended to diet, but it backfired and I gained weight.
無理に説得しようとしたら逆効果になって、余計に態度を硬くされた。
Trying to forcefully persuade them backfired, and they became even more stubborn.
A compound of 逆 (reverse) + 効果 (effect). Very common in everyday conversation and writing.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 逆効果になる (to become counterproductive)
- 逆効果だ (it's counterproductive)
- かえって逆効果 (on the contrary, counterproductive)
Often paired with かえって (on the contrary) to emphasize the ironic outcome. Used in parenting, health, business, and everyday advice contexts.