Contrary

/ˈkɒntɹəɹi/ · adjective

Meaning

Opposite; in an opposite direction; in opposition; adverse..

Definitions by Sense

1. Opposite; in an opposite direction; in opposition; adverse.
2. Opposed; contradictory; inconsistent.
3. Given to opposition; perverse; wayward.
4. Contrarily
5. The opposite.
6. (logic) One of a pair of propositions that cannot both be simultaneously true, though they may both be false.
7. (historical) A type of loaded die.
8. (obsolete) To oppose; to frustrate.

Example Sentences

contrary winds

And if ye walk contrary unto me, and will not hearken unto me[…]

We have lost our labour; they are gone a contrary way.

Galileo [Galilei]'s zeal for his opinions soon led him again to bring the question under the notice of the Pope, and the result was a declaration of the Inquisition that the doctrine of the earth's motion appeared to be contrary to the sacred scripture.

a contrary disposition; a contrary child

I never act contrary to my principles.

No contraries hold more antipathy Than I and such a knave.

If two universals differ in quality, they are contraries; as, every vine is a tree; no vine is a tree. These can never be both true together; but they may be both false.

Synonyms for contrary

Antonyms for contrary

Related Words

Word Forms

• more contrary
• most contrary
• contraries
• contrarying
• contraried

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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