Retrogressive: meaning, definitions and examples

Suitable when describing a process or development that is moving backward, often in a negative way, implying a decline or a return to a less advanced state.

• The company's retrogressive policies are leading to a decline in employee morale
• The economic measures were seen as retrogressive, pushing the nation back to poorer times

Applicable when referring to actions or policies that lead to a less advanced state, especially in terms of social, economic, or political progress. Often used in discussions about taxation, policies, or societal trends.

• The new tax policy is regressive, putting more burden on the lower-income groups
• The government's stance on education seems regressive, reducing access to quality learning

Used to describe something that is moving in the opposite direction of progress or development. Can have a negative connotation when referring to people or societies, implying a lack of advancement.

• Some rural areas are still quite backward in terms of technology
• He stumbled backward when he got startled

Best used when referring to returning to an earlier state or condition, often neutral but can imply a return to a less desirable state depending on context.

• After the crisis, the country started reverting to its old governance style
• He was reverting to his old habits after months of progress