The converse is
Argumentation and critical discussion expression
Use this phrase to elegantly show that a logical relationship works in both directions.
En 15 segundos
- Used to state that the opposite situation is also true.
- Common in logical arguments, academic writing, and professional debates.
- Flips a statement to show a two-way relationship.
Significado
This phrase is used to say that the opposite of what you just mentioned is also true. It is like flipping a coin to show the other side of a logical argument.
Ejemplos clave
3 de 6Discussing work-life balance
If you are happy at home, you work better; the converse is also true.
If you are happy at home, you work better; the opposite is also true.
Talking about trust in a relationship
I trust her because she is honest, and I believe the converse is true.
I trust her because she is honest, and I believe the opposite is true.
A high-level strategy meeting
Low prices drive volume, but the converse is that high volume allows for lower prices.
Low prices drive volume, but the opposite is that high volume allows for lower prices.
Contexto cultural
The term originates from Latin 'conversus', meaning 'turned around'. It became a staple of English rhetoric during the Enlightenment when logical precision became a sign of high status. Today, it remains a hallmark of C2-level proficiency, often used by lawyers, scientists, and academics to ensure no logical stone is left unturned.
The 'Also True' Add-on
You will almost always hear 'also true' or 'equally true' right after this phrase. It completes the thought perfectly.
Don't Overuse It
Using this in every sentence makes you sound like a textbook. Save it for one or two 'mic drop' moments in a discussion.
En 15 segundos
- Used to state that the opposite situation is also true.
- Common in logical arguments, academic writing, and professional debates.
- Flips a statement to show a two-way relationship.
What It Means
The converse is is a fancy way to say "the opposite is also true." Imagine you say, "If it is raining, the ground is wet." You use this phrase to flip that logic. It connects two ideas that mirror each other. It is about symmetry in thinking. It shows you are looking at the whole picture, not just one side.
How To Use It
Use it after you have made a clear statement. Start your next sentence with The converse is true or The converse is also the case. It acts as a bridge between two related but reversed facts. You can use it to prove a point or explore a theory. It makes you sound very sharp and analytical. Just don't use it for simple things like lunch orders!
When To Use It
You will mostly use this in serious discussions. Think of a business meeting about strategy. Use it when discussing cause and effect. It is perfect for academic writing or debating a philosophy. If you are explaining a complex rule to a friend, it works well too. It helps clarify that a relationship works in both directions.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid this phrase in very casual settings. Do not say it while buying coffee or at a loud party. It sounds a bit too "professor-like" for small talk. If the opposite statement is obvious, skip it. For example, don't say "I like you, and the converse is true" to a date. That is a very robotic way to say "I like you too!"
Cultural Background
This phrase comes from formal logic and mathematics. In those worlds, a "converse" is a specific type of statement. English speakers adopted it to sound more precise. It reflects a Western cultural value of logical consistency. It suggests that the speaker is educated and values objective truth over just feelings.
Common Variations
You might hear Conversely, which is a shorter version. Some people say The reverse is true for a slightly less formal feel. In math, they might say The converse holds. If you want to be extra emphatic, try The converse is equally true. All of these keep that "mirror image" logic intact.
Notas de uso
This is a C2-level expression. It is highly formal and should be reserved for writing or structured debates. Using it correctly demonstrates a high level of logical reasoning and vocabulary control.
The 'Also True' Add-on
You will almost always hear 'also true' or 'equally true' right after this phrase. It completes the thought perfectly.
Don't Overuse It
Using this in every sentence makes you sound like a textbook. Save it for one or two 'mic drop' moments in a discussion.
The British Nuance
In British English, this is often used in high-level journalism (like The Economist) to challenge a popular opinion by showing its opposite.
Ejemplos
6If you are happy at home, you work better; the converse is also true.
If you are happy at home, you work better; the opposite is also true.
Shows the two-way link between home life and work performance.
I trust her because she is honest, and I believe the converse is true.
I trust her because she is honest, and I believe the opposite is true.
Implies she trusts him because he is honest.
Low prices drive volume, but the converse is that high volume allows for lower prices.
Low prices drive volume, but the opposite is that high volume allows for lower prices.
Explains a circular business logic.
If the theory holds for X, the converse is true for Y, right?
If the theory works for X, the opposite works for Y, right?
Using formal logic in a semi-casual academic chat.
I think I own my cat, but often the converse is true.
I think I own my cat, but often the opposite is true.
Humorously suggests the cat owns the human.
While wealth can create health, the converse is often overlooked.
While wealth can create health, the opposite is often overlooked.
Points out that healthy people are more likely to build wealth.
Ponte a prueba
Choose the best phrase to complete the logical reversal.
If the team wins, the fans are happy; ___, if the fans are loud, the team wins.
The sentence is flipping the cause and effect, which is exactly what 'the converse' does.
Select the most natural ending for this formal observation.
Success leads to confidence, and the converse is ___.
'The converse is also true' is the most common and idiomatic full expression.
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Ayudas visuales
Formality of 'The converse is'
Using 'The other way around'
It works the other way around too.
Using 'Vice versa'
I like him and vice versa.
Using 'The converse is'
The converse is also true in this instance.
When to flip the logic
Academic Essay
Analyzing a thesis.
Legal Argument
Proving a point in court.
Business Strategy
Explaining market trends.
Scientific Report
Discussing variables.
Preguntas frecuentes
10 preguntasIt means that if you flip the subject and the object of your sentence, the statement remains valid. For example, if 'A leads to B', the converse is 'B leads to A'.
Yes, they are very similar, but the converse is is much more formal. You use vice versa at the end of a sentence, while the converse is usually starts a new clause.
It might sound a bit sarcastic or overly intellectual. Unless you are joking with a friend about being 'nerdy', it is better to say 'the same goes for...'.
Not at all! It is very common in law, philosophy, and high-level business discussions. It is a general tool for logical thinking.
They are often used interchangeably in speech. However, converse specifically refers to flipping a logical 'if-then' statement, while reverse can mean any kind of opposite.
When used as a noun or adjective in this phrase, the stress is on the first syllable: CON-verse. This is different from the verb 'to converse' (to talk), where the stress is on the second: con-VERSE.
Yes, it can stand alone as a sentence if the previous sentence established the logic you are flipping. It acts as a powerful concluding point.
Absolutely. This is a great way to debunk an argument. You are saying that while the first statement is true, flipping it does not work.
Yes, it is used in both American and British English, primarily in professional and academic circles. It is a standard part of the global English 'intellectual' vocabulary.
The biggest mistake is using it when the two ideas aren't actually opposites. Make sure there is a clear 'mirror' relationship between your two points.
Frases relacionadas
Vice versa
With the order or meaning reversed; the other way around.
Conversely
An adverb used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or reverses the previous one.
By the same token
In the same way or for the same reason.
The reverse is true
A slightly less formal way to express that the opposite situation applies.
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