contrary to

preposition

: in conflict with : despite

Contrary to orders, he set out alone.

Examples of contrary to in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

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

Béjar said that, contrary to Meta's statements, the company's research on safety issues was not being used to improve products. — CBS News, 18 Aug. 2026

The governor’s office said Friday that, contrary to claims made by critics in recent days, the proposal would not limit a fire survivor’s ability to seek economic damages for homes destroyed or damaged in a wildfire, including for smoke damage. — Linh Tat, Daily News, 14 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for contrary to

• hullabaloo
• accrue
• ado
• ainu
• aircrew
• airscrew
• anew
• askew
• baboo
• babu
• bamboo
• beaucoup