26984 words

contrary

9 definitions • 12 examples
1
the opposite:

Examples:

I was worried that it might be too hard for me but it turned out the contrary was true.
His death will be considered accidental unless the contrary is shown by existing evidence.
Generally lower unemployment rates can halt inflation, but the contrary seems to be the case today.
2
used to show that you think or feel the opposite of what has just been stated:

Examples:

"I thought you said the film was exciting?" "On the contrary, I nearly fell asleep half way through it!"
3
saying or showing the opposite:

Examples:

proof/evidence to the contrary For a long time it was thought to be a harmless substance, but we now have proof/evidence to the contrary.
4

Examples:

a contrary point of view
contrary to Contrary to all our expectations, he found a well-paid job and a nice girlfriend.
5
in a different way from what most people believe:

Examples:

Contrary to popular opinion, I don't dye my hair!
6
A contrary person wants to disagree with and annoy other people:

Examples:

He doesn't really mean it - he's just being contrary.
7
a fact or opinion that is the opposite of one already stated:

Examples:

We expected the play to be a bore, but the contrary was true.
8

Examples:

Most people supported the proposal, but Liz expressed a contrary opinion.
9
(of a person) intentionally wanting to disagree with and annoy other people:

Examples:

I’m in a contrary mood – I don’t feel like practicing today.

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