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.
And contrary to what many people think, pleasure is not the opposite of health. Lucia Aronica, CNBC, 10 June 2026 Plus, contrary to popular belief, the nose can't always determine an egg's freshness either. Michelle Darrisaw, Southern Living, 10 June 2026 This small suede shoulder bag, contrary to the name, is actually quite spacious and fits a generous amount of my essentials that similarly sized purses in my closet cannot. Ali Faccenda, InStyle, 5 June 2026 This is contrary to statements from the Pima County Sheriff's Department that the FBI was promptly notified about the case. Marina Watts, Entertainment Weekly, 5 June 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

Cite this Entry

“Contrary to.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/contrary%20to. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on contrary to

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster