contrary to

preposition

Synonyms of contrary tonext
: in conflict with : despite
Contrary to orders, he set out alone.

Examples of contrary to in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This week, New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani publicly declared his opposition to the event, labeling RSS ideology as exclusionary and contrary to the pluralistic views of the city. — ABC News, 28 Aug. 2026 This seems contrary to the whole gravel garden concept, but the water requirement changes as the plants root into the soil below the gravel. — Teresa Woodard, Midwest Living, 21 Aug. 2026 Assistant Town Engineer Matt Gavelek said that the problems were created because, contrary to the town’s instructions, a large area of land was excavated. — Jim Woods, Chicago Tribune, 19 Aug. 2026 Béjar said that, contrary to Meta’s statements, the company’s research on safety issues was not being used to improve products. — Barbara Ortutay, Fortune, 19 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for contrary to

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of contrary to was in the 14th century

Rhymes for contrary to

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Browse Nearby Words

contrary terms
contrary to
contrary to expectations
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Cite this Entry

“Contrary to.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/contrary%20to. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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