adjective
retroactive
ret-roh-AK-tiv/ˌretrəʊˈæktɪv/
Taking effect from a date before being introduced or announced.
The stamp's backward reach across the calendar represents a retroactive effect.
Etymology
The pieces express driving or turning something backward. A retroactive rule turns its effect backward in time, applying to circumstances that occurred before the rule took effect.
In context
it was approved and then the structure was converted it was not a retroactive request I think this is actually great
More examples
- The committee approves a retroactive correction to the charges.
- The new rule has no retroactive effect.
- She receives retroactive benefits for the earlier eligible period.
Forms
retroactive
Similar words
- retrospective
- Retrospective looks back; retroactive changes how earlier events are treated.
- backdated
- Backdated assigns an earlier date; retroactive makes a provision effective for an earlier period.