Converse

/kənˈvɜɹs/ verb

Definition

To have a conversation or talk with someone. It can also mean the opposite of something, or be a mathematical relationship.

Etymology

From Latin 'conversari' meaning 'to live with' or 'to spend time with,' composed of 'com-' (with) and 'versari' (to turn or move about). The sense of 'opposite' comes from the prefix 'con-' reversed. The word entered English in the 1300s from Old French.

Kelly Says

In mathematics, the 'converse' of a statement is when you flip it around—and here's the beautiful part: just because a statement is true doesn't mean its converse is true! For example, 'If it's raining, the ground is wet' is true, but its converse 'If the ground is wet, it's raining' is false. This logical trick trips up people constantly.

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