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Retrograde - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

retrograde

/ˈrɛtrəˌɡreɪd/ /ˈrɛtrəʊɡreɪd/

Definition:

Moving backward or reverting to an earlier, often worse, state or condition.

Synonyms:

backward, regressive, declining, deteriorating

Part of Speech:

adjective, verb

Antonyms:

progressive, forward

Common Collocations:

retrograde motion, retrograde amnesia, retrograde step

Derivatives:

retrogradation, retrogradely

Usage Tips:

Use "retrograde" to describe movement opposite to the usual direction or a decline in quality.

Common Phrases:

in retrograde, retrograde motion, go into retrograde

Etymology:

From Latin "retrogradus," meaning "going backward," from "retro-" (back) + "gradi" (to step).

Examples:

  • 1. The planet appears to move in retrograde from Earth's perspective.
  • 2. His policies were seen as a retrograde step for equality.
  • 3. She suffered from retrograde amnesia after the accident.
  • 4. The company's profits took a retrograde turn this quarter.

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