Translation guide
The English word 'reverse' covers several distinct meanings. This guide breaks them down into practical categories for Japanese learners.
Expressing that something is the opposite way around, backwards, or in the opposite order.
The most common and versatile word for 'reverse' or 'opposite'. Can be used as a noun or adjective.
逆の方向に進んでいます。
We're going in the reverse direction.
The order is reversed.
Often means 'opposite' in a more general sense, but can be used for reverse direction or side.
Please use the door on the reverse side.
Loanword from English, used in specific contexts like vehicles (reverse gear) or technology.
Put the car in reverse.
Physically flipping or turning an object so the back becomes the front, or top becomes bottom.
Transitive verb meaning to turn something inside out or flip it over.
Please reverse the shirt (turn it inside out) and hang it to dry.
To put something upside down or in reverse order.
You're holding the book upside down (reversed).
To revoke, overturn, or go back on a previous action or statement.
Formal term for withdrawing or retracting a statement, decision, or offer.
The government reversed its policy.
To overturn a decision, ruling, or common belief. Often used in legal or dramatic contexts.
To change one's mind or reverse one's thinking, often implying improvement.
Referring to the other side of a flat object, like paper, a coin, or a card.
Going from the end to the beginning, or doing things backwards.
The gear in a car or other vehicle that makes it go backwards.
English uses 'reverse' in many set phrases (e.g., 'reverse psychology', 'reverse charge call'). These often have specific Japanese equivalents that don't use the word for 'reverse'. For example, 'reverse psychology' is 逆心理学 (ぎゃくしんりがく) but is not commonly used; instead, describe the action. 'Reverse charge call' is コレクトコール. Always check if a fixed phrase exists.
逆 (ぎゃく) is more about order, direction, or logic being reversed. 反対 (はんたい) is more about opposition or being contrary. For 'reverse side', 裏 (うら) is usually better than either.
To flip or overturn something, often with a sense of turning it completely over.
Please turn the card over (reverse it).
The court reversed the verdict.
He reversed his thinking and canceled the plan.
Please fill out the reverse side of the application form as well.
リバースに入れてください。
Put it in reverse.