Word
contrary
Meanings
Opposite to something, or in conflict with it; not what is expected or desired.
Deliberately refusing to agree or cooperate; inclined to do the opposite of what others want.
Used to correct a statement or to state the opposite (as in “on the contrary”).
Definition
Contrary describes something that is opposite to what is expected, desired, or stated.
Contrary is used to show opposition or contrast. It can describe a person who tends to disagree or do the opposite of what others want. It is also used in set phrases like “on the contrary” to introduce a correction or strong disagreement with a previous statement.
Examples
- The results were contrary to our initial hypothesis, so we redesigned the experiment.
- She sounded calm, but her body language told a contrary story.
- They chose a route contrary to the guide’s recommendation, and the hike became far more difficult.
- I assumed he disliked the proposal; on the contrary, he supported it enthusiastically.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse “contrary” with “controversial,” but “contrary” means “opposite,” not “causing public disagreement.”
More at C1 level
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- xenophobia Xenophobia is a strong dislike or fear of people from other countries or cultures.
- genocide Genocide is the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular group in order to …
- conundrum A conundrum is a confusing and difficult problem to solve.
- pretentious Trying to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than you really are.
More adjectives
- agnostic An agnostic is someone who does not claim to know whether God exists.
- pragmatic Pragmatic means focused on practical results rather than ideals or theories.
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- cynical Cynical describes believing that people are mainly motivated by self-interest and not sincere.
- apathetic Apathetic means showing little or no interest, concern, or enthusiasm.