contrary (B2)

adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈkɒntrəri/

Definition

Opposite or opposed to what has been stated or suggested.

Examples

• The evidence suggests the contrary.

• He was accused of lying, but the facts proved the contrary.

• She expected a quiet evening, but the contrary happened when her friends arrived unexpectedly.

How to Use contrary

on the contrary (idiom)

Used to state the opposite of what has just been said. — "You think I'm angry? On the contrary, I'm quite pleased."

contrary to (prepositional phrase)

In opposition to something. — "Contrary to popular belief, bats are not blind."

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