contravention

noun

con·​tra·​ven·​tion ˌkän-trə-ˈven(t)-shən 

: the act of contravening : violation

Synonyms of contravention

• violation
• infringement

Examples of contravention in a Sentence

a clandestine weapons program that was a contravention of the international arms agreement

Recent Examples on the Web

Accordingly, there is a real risk of Congress delegating that power in contravention of the constitutional framework. — Marie Sapirie, Forbes.com, 4 May 2026

And there is no moral contradiction between welcoming Maduro’s capture and acknowledging its contravention of international rules. — Juan Pablo Spinetto, Twin Cities, 1 Feb. 2026

This modus operandi is a direct contravention of Gallifrey's strict non-interference policies. — Richard Edwards, Space.com, 3 June 2025

But they can’t be imposed capriciously, in fits of pique or in direct contravention of our laws. — New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 27 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle French, from Late Latin contravenire — more at contravene

First Known Use

1579, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing contravention

• in contravention of

Rhymes for contravention

• circumvention
• inattention
• intervention
• abstention
• dissention
• distention
• intention
• nonintervention