<< Click to Display Table of Contents >> Navigation:  Forms and Sets > Short Form 2 > Frequently Asked Questions > What is the difference between an opposite and a reverse?

In general terms, reverse is typically limited to motion staying on the same line, plane, or circle - but in directly opposing directions. Opposite is the broader of the two terms and is usually used in conceptual as well as physical contexts. Yet the terms are often used interchangeably - even though there are subtle differences between the two.

 

Also, opposite can be thought of as the umbrella term covering both opposite and reverse. While reverse is typically limited to directly opposing motions. Therefore one can correctly say - all reverses are opposites, but not all opposites are reverses.

 

To see a more complete answer of this question see our book "The EPAKS Guide to Long Form One" - Appendix C.