contrary to

preposition
UK: /ˈkɒntrəri tuː/
US: /ˈkɑːntreri tuː/

  1. Opposite to what is expected or has been said.

    1. Contrary to popular belief, cats do need training.
    2. The company's profits were lower than expected, contrary to previous forecasts.

  2. In opposition to; against.

    1. Contrary to my advice, he quit his job.
    2. Contrary to the rules, she brought her dog into the restaurant.

Synonyms

opposite in opposition to against
contrary to adjective

  1. Having a tendency to do the opposite of what is suggested or expected; stubbornly opposed.

    1. He is a contrary person who always disagrees.
    2. She became contrary whenever someone offered help with her project.

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "contrary to" in English means: Opposite to what is expected or has been said., In opposition to; against..

The phonetic transcription of "contrary to" is /ˈkɒntrəri tuː/ in British English and /ˈkɑːntreri tuː/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "contrary to": opposite, in opposition to, against.

Example usage of "contrary to": "Contrary to popular belief, cats do need training.". More examples on the page.