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

Teare’s office has previously said its investigation has not found that Parra Hernandez and the man ICE identified as Mendoza-Cervantes were in a vehicle together, contrary to ICE’s statement. — Anna Wilder, Los Angeles Times, 30 Oct. 2026

The idea of this was troubling, in large part because luck was completely contrary to my upbringing. — Literary Hub, 28 Oct. 2026

But, contrary to many comics that trade in shock value, Snyder’s inspiration came more from a place of lived experience. — Christopher Cruz, Rolling Stone, 28 Oct. 2026

At the hospital, contrary to what the deputy wrote in his report, the woman was not seen attacking the deputy. — Cristóbal Reyes, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 Oct. 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