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Retroactively: meaning, definitions and examples

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retroactively

 

[ ˌrɛtroʊˈæktɪvli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

time context

Retroactively refers to applying something, such as a law or policy, to a period in the past. This term is often used in legal contexts where changes affect events or actions that occurred before the change was enacted.

Synonyms

historically, retrospectively.

Examples of usage

  • The new tax law was applied retroactively to last year’s earnings.
  • They decided to retroactively adjust the salaries of employees.
  • The company announced retroactive benefits for its workers.
  • The revision of the policy takes effect retroactively from January 1st.

Etymology

The term 'retroactively' is derived from the Latin root 'retro-', meaning 'backward' or 'in the past', combined with 'act', which refers to the act of applying or enforcing something. The concept of retroactivity has been a part of legal terminology for centuries, particularly in the context of laws and regulations that change the status of past actions. It signifies the ability of laws to apply to events that occurred before those laws were enacted, which can often lead to debates regarding fairness and legality. In common usage, the word has expanded beyond legal contexts to describe any situation where adjustments or changes affect previous time periods.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,234, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.