retroaktív

Retroaktív is the Hungarian adjective meaning retroactive. The term is used in Hungarian to describe something that has or is intended to have an effect on events that occurred in the past. Its etymology traces to Latin retroactīvus, from retro- “back” and actus “done.”

In law, retroactive measures apply to past acts, contracts, or transactions. They can include retroactive amendments to statutes, retroactive tax changes, or backpay decisions. Many legal systems distinguish retroactive civil or administrative regulation from criminal law, and constitutional frameworks often restrict retroactive criminal laws to protect due process and prevent ex post facto effects.

In business and administration, retroactive provisions may grant backdated allowances, compensate for past periods of service, or adjust terms retroactively. In scientific or policy contexts, retroactive analyses or retroactive approvals refer to processes that consider past data or events when evaluating current rules.

Retroactivity is often contrasted with retrospective, which describes looking back at past events without necessarily altering their legal or practical effects. The use of retroactive provisions can be controversial because they change expectations or obligations created under earlier law, contracts, or policies, potentially affecting rights and duties retroactively.