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

That creed is certainly still part of the ideological atmosphere in this country, but multiple generations of Americans since the 1960s have grown up surrounded by contrary evidence.

From Salon • May 31, 2026

Big Ma shook her head to the contrary.

From "Gone Crazy in Alabama" by Rita Williams-Garcia

Vocabulary lists containing contrary

Opposites Attract

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Against All Odds: Contra and Counter

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

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

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!