on the contrary

phrase

: just the opposite

The test will not be easy; on the contrary, it will be extremely difficult.

Examples of on the contrary in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

However, neither Putin nor Sybiha cited specific reasons to expect progress; on the contrary, the Kremlin leader said Ukraine’s latest actions presented an obstacle. — Reuters, NBC news, 3 Sep. 2026

Each of these steps can contribute to the normalization of ongoing barbarism or, on the contrary, oppose and halt it. — Etan Vlessing, HollywoodReporter, 28 Aug. 2026

The sparkler is not actually a product of the Roaring Twenties, however; on the contrary, it was reportedly made in the late 1800s and later purchased by the Earl from Catchpole & Williams, per the Court Jeweler. — Emma Banks, InStyle, 13 Aug. 2026

Chicago, on the contrary, faces the toughest schedule in the league according to opponent winning percentages from 2025. — John Cassillo, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026