Retrograde: meaning, definitions and examples

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retrograde

[ˈrɛtrə(ʊ)ɡreɪd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

planetary motion

Directed or moving backward, especially referring to the motion of a planet in its orbit. Retrograde motion is an optical illusion caused by the relative positions of Earth and the planet in question.

Examples of usage

The apparent retrograde motion of Mars puzzled astronomers for centuries.
During retrograde periods, it may feel like things are moving in reverse.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

behavior

Involving a return to an earlier and typically worse state or condition. Regressive or declining.

Synonyms

declining, regressive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
retrograde	This word is often used in formal or scientific contexts to describe something moving backward or deteriorating over time. It can also refer to something that appears to be going back to a less advanced state. The policy change was seen as a retrograde step for civil rights. The disease caused a retrograde degeneration of the nervous system.
regressive	This term is often used in social, political, or economic contexts to describe policies or actions that move society or an entity back to a previous, less advanced state. It carries a negative connotation. The new tax law was criticized as regressive, benefiting the wealthy at the expense of the poor. The regressive policies of the government have been widely condemned.
declining	This word is generally used to describe a decrease in quality, quantity, or importance. It can be used in various contexts, like health, economy, or social status. The company is experiencing declining sales. His health has been declining rapidly over the past few months.

Word

Description / Examples

retrograde

This word is often used in formal or scientific contexts to describe something moving backward or deteriorating over time. It can also refer to something that appears to be going back to a less advanced state.

The policy change was seen as a retrograde step for civil rights.
The disease caused a retrograde degeneration of the nervous system.

regressive

This term is often used in social, political, or economic contexts to describe policies or actions that move society or an entity back to a previous, less advanced state. It carries a negative connotation.

The new tax law was criticized as regressive, benefiting the wealthy at the expense of the poor.
The regressive policies of the government have been widely condemned.

declining

This word is generally used to describe a decrease in quality, quantity, or importance. It can be used in various contexts, like health, economy, or social status.

The company is experiencing declining sales.
His health has been declining rapidly over the past few months.

Examples of usage

The country's retrograde economic policies led to a recession.
The company's decision to cut employee benefits was seen as a retrograde step.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'retrogradus', which means 'going backward'.
It was used in astronomy to describe the apparent backward motion of planets.
The prefix 'retro-' means 'backward' or 'behind', which helps to understand its meaning.

Astronomy

In astronomy, retrograde motion occurs when a planet appears to move backward in its orbit due to the relative positions of the Earth and that planet.
Mars goes retrograde approximately every two years, leading to spectacular visuals in the night sky.
Ancient astronomers often struggled to explain retrograde motion, leading to the development of the geocentric model of the universe.

Cultural References

The term 'retrograde' often appears in astrology, suggesting times when a planet's influence may cause setbacks or challenges.
In popular culture, 'retrograde' is used to describe fashion or trends that pull inspiration from the past, highlighting nostalgia.
Music and art sometimes embrace the concept of retrograde to create pieces that reflect prior styles or eras.

Science

In psychology, a retrograde amnesia refers to a condition where a person cannot recall memories from a period before a specific event.
Geologically, retrograde metamorphism describes the process where rocks change under decreasing temperature and pressure conditions, providing insights into Earth’s history.
In mathematics, retrograde analysis involves working backward from a known end state to deduce preceding conditions or moves.

Literature

Authors often use retrograde narratives to tell stories in reverse order, creating suspense and intrigue.
The 'retrograde' concept appears in literary discussions about themes of returning to origins or addressing past mistakes.
In Shakespeare's plays, characters sometimes exhibit retrograde views, holding onto traditional beliefs as society progresses around them.

Translations

Translations of the word "retrograde" in other languages:

🇵🇹 retrógrado

🇮🇳 प्रतिगामी

🇩🇪 rückläufig

🇮🇩 mundur

🇺🇦 ретроградний

🇵🇱 wsteczny

🇯🇵 逆行

🇫🇷 rétrograde

🇪🇸 retrógrado

🇹🇷 geriye dönük

🇰🇷 역행하는

🇸🇦 متراجع

🇨🇿 retrográdní

🇸🇰 retrográdny

🇨🇳 逆行

🇸🇮 retrograden

🇮🇸 afturfarandi

🇰🇿 артқа кеткен

🇬🇪 რეგრესი

🇦🇿 geriyə doğru

🇲🇽 retrógrado

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,820, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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14817 lapsed
14818 scanner
14819 overtaken
14820 retrograde
14821 enthusiasts
14822 unexpired
14823 stacking
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