Reversable vs. Reversible: Which Is Correct?

• "Reversable" is an incorrect spelling of the word "reversible."
• "Reversible" means something can be undone or changed back without causing permanent effects. A reversible process can go backward or forward.

What does "reversible" mean?

"Reversible" is an adjective that describes something capable of being reversed or turned back. It implies that a process, action, or condition can be undone, returned to its original state, or changed back without permanent consequences. In various contexts, "reversible" indicates the ability for a system or object to function in both forward and backward directions.

The use of "reversible" and "reversable" over time

The Ngram graph below shows how often "reversible" and "reversable" have been used from the 1800s to the 2000s. "Reversible" peaked around 1985 before declining in use in recent years, while its misspelling "reversable" has always seen nearly zero use.

How to pronounce "reversible"

In American English, "reversible" is pronounced like "ruh·vur·suh·bl."

In British English, "reversible" is pronounced like "ruh·vuh·suh·bl."

Why would we misspell "reversible" as "reversable"?

False Analogy: Some words like "renewable" and "lovable" have "-able" endings. Someone unfamiliar with the spelling of "reversible" might incorrectly apply this pattern, resulting in the misspelling "reversable."

Typos: When typing quickly or without proofreading, it's easy to type the wrong key. In this case, some people may type "a" instead of "i," leading to the misspelling "reversable."

Phonetic Confusion: Someone unfamiliar with the correct spelling may rely on pronunciation and think the "uh" sound is spelled as an "a" rather than an "i."

Other common misspellings of "reversible"

1. Reversabel
2. Reversibile
3. Reversuble
4. Reversabl
5. Reversibel

Example sentences of the misspelling of "reversible" as "reversable"

1. The garment label might be incorrect if it reads "reversable"; the accurate term is "reversible."
2. When proofreading your work, watch out for the error "reversable" and replace it with the correct spelling, "reversible."
3. In professional communication, using "reversable" instead of the correct term, "reversible," can impact the clarity of your message.
4. "Reversable" is a commonly mistaken spelling that should be corrected to "reversible" to ensure accurate and polished writing.
5. The reversible features of the product should be accurately described; check for and correct any instances of the misspelling "reversable."

Example sentences of "reversible"

1. If a mistake is reversible, it means you can fix it without causing permanent damage.
2. Some chemical reactions are reversible, meaning they can proceed in both forward and backward directions.
3. The decision to repaint the room was reversible, as the original color could be easily restored.
4. The innovative technology features a reversible function that allows users to undo actions with a simple command.
5. A reversible process in physics is one that can be retraced, maintaining the same initial and final states.
6. The pillowcase has a reversible design, offering a different pattern on each side.
7. In fashion, a reversible garment provides versatility, allowing you to create multiple looks with a single piece.
8. The damage to the document was reversible through careful restoration and preservation techniques.
9. The software update is reversible, enabling users to revert to the previous version if needed.
10. The environmental impact of the construction project was carefully assessed to ensure that any changes made were reversible and sustainable.

Synonyms for "reversible"

1. Undoable
2. Changeable
3. Revocable
4. Alterable
5. Flexible
6. Malleable
7. Adaptable
8. Versatile
9. Modifiable
10. Convertible

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References:

Definition of REVERSIBLE

capable of being reversed or of reversing: such as; capable of going through a series of actions (such as changes) either backward or forward; having two finished usable sides… See the full definition

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