C1adjectiveformalacademiclanguage
US/ˈkɑːn.trer.i/
UK/ˈkɒn.trə.ri/
completely different or opposite to something else
In context
Contrary to popular belief, bats are not blind.
The two experts gave contrary opinions on the same data.
Contrary to what the ad said, the hotel was far from the beach.
Words that go with contrary
adjective + preposition
- contrary toContrary to my fears, the interview went well.
- contrary to popular beliefContrary to popular belief, cold weather doesn't cause colds.
adjective + noun
- contrary viewSome economists hold a contrary view.
- contrary opinionIt's healthy to listen to a contrary opinion.
- contrary evidenceThere is no contrary evidence so far.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
Contrary with my plan, it rained all day.Correct: Contrary to my plan, it rained all day.