Definitions

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.

Asking him to choose sides runs contrary to decades of Sesame Street lessons about kindness, friendship and inclusion.

From Salon • Jun. 7, 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

He then posted another message, saying: “Jefferies is not promoting any shorting activity regarding any IPO. Any suggestion to the contrary is WRONG.”

From MarketWatch • Jun. 4, 2026

Popular impressions to the contrary, relatively few victims of hypothermia die in extreme conditions, stumbling through blizzards or fighting the bite of arctic winds.

From "A Walk in the Woods" by Bill Bryson

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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