逆行

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 逆行 is a noun read ぎゃっこう; 逆行する describes moving opposite the normal direction or going against a trend.
• Basic usage: Use 時計の針が逆行する for physical backward motion and 簡素化の流れに逆行する for conflict with an abstract trend.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Physical and abstract direction
  • 逆行 can describe clock hands moving backward or a rule running counter to a social trend. The second use involves no physical reverse motion.
• に marking the reference trend
  • In 流れに逆行する, に identifies the current or trend being opposed. It does not mean moving along with that trend.
• 逆行 and 逆転
  • 逆転(ぎゃくてん) focuses on an order, advantage, or result being overturned. 逆行 focuses on movement against a direction or trend.