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

Those with the contrary view will be tempted once again by his prospects.

From BBC • Apr. 9, 2026

Some Wall Street analysts are insisting that April — contrary to its label as the cruelest month — is actually one of the better months for the U.S. stock market.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

On the contrary, women came to the pastors’ defense.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 27, 2026

“No? I think he’s behaving very strangely. Henry and I were talking only yesterday about how brusque and contrary he’s become.”

From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt

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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