contrary

[kon-trer-ee, kuhn-trair-ee] / ˈkɒn trɛr i, kənˈtrɛər i /

ADJECTIVE

antagonistic; opposite

Synonyms

STRONGEST

adverse antithetical conflicting contradictory discordant hostile inconsistent inimical negative opposed paradoxical wrongheaded

STRONG

anti antipodal converse counter dissident nonconformist recusant refractory reverse

WEAK

antipathetic antipodean balky clashing contrariant contumacious diametric dissentient froward headstrong insubordinate intractable nonconforming obstinate ornery perverse rebellious recalcitrant restive stubborn unruly wayward

Antonyms

STRONGEST

agreeable agreeing consistent friendly harmonious kind

STRONG

conforming equal same similar

WEAK

accommodating alike concordant correspondent homogeneous like obliging

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Lithgow, to the contrary, was clearly stunned — and deeply honored.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 8, 2026

"USCIS's actions are contrary to law and arbitrary and capricious."

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

Javadli rejected the accusations and her Emirati legal team submitted evidence to the contrary in court.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

Corporate executives are realizing that it’s more expensive to replace employees with artificial intelligence, contrary to what was previously believed.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 4, 2026

Now, I realize that this is exactly contrary to conventional wisdom.

From "Blink" by Malcolm Gladwell

Vocabulary lists containing contrary

Opposites Attract

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Against All Odds: Contra and Counter

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"To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee, Chapters 16–19

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