Meaning & use
contrary
Opposite in nature, direction, or meaning; completely different from something else.
See it in a sentence
Contrary to popular belief, the experiment actually supported the original hypothesis.
Her contrary opinion sparked a lively debate among the rest of the committee.
A note on using this word
In the phrase on the contrary, contrary functions as a noun meaning the opposite idea.
Words with a similar meaning
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
Another way to use it
2. noun
The opposite of a statement, fact, or idea.
Everyone assumed the plan had failed, but the contrary turned out to be true.
3. adjective
Stubbornly opposed to what others think or want.
The contrary toddler refused to eat anything his parents suggested.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “contrary”, then compare your use with the examples above.