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.

Contentions to the contrary, they say, are false.

From Salon • Apr. 14, 2026

Meta's advertising standards states it reserves the rights to remove ads which "negatively affect our relationship with our users or that promote content, services or activities contrary to our competitive position, interests or advertising philosophy".

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

“Any reporting to the contrary is false. We encourage people to consult trusted news sources, and to verify the accuracy of any reporting, before reflexively sharing or repeating baseless rumors.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

But he said he’s also looking to four prior ETF launches that were focused on hot themes and then “acted as contrary indicators in an extremely precise manner.”

From MarketWatch • Apr. 4, 2026

“I think it’s handsome,” Cari said, contrary as ever.

From "Out of Darkness" by Ashley Hope Pérez

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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