REVERSE COMMUTER Meaning and
Definition
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A reverse commuter refers to an individual who frequently commutes in the opposite direction of the typical flow of traffic during rush hours. This commuting behavior involves traveling from a suburban or residential area to a city or commercial hub for work purposes. Unlike most commuters who journey from their homes in urban areas to workplaces in suburban locations, reverse commuters follow the opposite pattern.
Typically, a reverse commuter resides in the outskirts or suburbs of a city and commutes towards the city center, where their workplace is located. This commuting strategy is chosen to avoid heavy traffic jams commonly experienced by people traveling into the city during peak hours. The reverse commuter's journey often involves travel against the predominant traffic flow, making their commute relatively quicker, smoother, and less stressful.
Reverse commuters typically rely on various modes of transportation to reach their workplace, including private cars, ridesharing services, commuter trains, buses, or a combination of these options. This commuting behavior is often observed in metropolitan areas where the central business district is surrounded by suburban neighborhoods and satellite cities.
The term "reverse commuter" can also be applied to individuals who live in a city and commute to the suburbs for work. However, it is more commonly used to describe those who live in the suburbs and work in the city. Reverse commuting can offer individuals the advantage of living in quieter, more spacious areas while still enjoying the professional opportunities and amenities offered by the nearby urban centers.
Etymology of REVERSE COMMUTER
The word "reverse commuter" is a compound term formed from the combination of "reverse" and "commuter".
The term "commuter" originates from the combination of the Latin prefix "com-" meaning "together" or "with", and the Latin word "mutare" meaning "to change". It originally referred to someone who regularly travels between their home and workplace.
The term "reverse" comes from the Latin word "revertere", which means "to go back", "to turn around", or "to reverse". In this context, "reverse" is used to indicate a contrary or opposite direction.
Therefore, when combined, the term "reverse commuter" refers to an individual who travels in the opposite direction of the typical commuting flow. Specifically, it refers to someone who travels from their place of work to their home, rather than the usual route from home to work.
