Synonym Chooser

How does the verb contradict differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of contradict are contravene, deny, and gainsay. While all these words mean "to refuse to accept as true or valid," contradict implies an open or flat denial.

her account contradicts his

In what contexts can contravene take the place of contradict?

Although the words contravene and contradict have much in common, contravene implies not so much an intentional opposition as some inherent incompatibility.

laws that contravene tradition

When could deny be used to replace contradict?

The synonyms deny and contradict are sometimes interchangeable, but deny implies a firm refusal to accept as true, to grant or concede, or to acknowledge the existence or claims of.

denied the charges

When would gainsay be a good substitute for contradict?

The words gainsay and contradict can be used in similar contexts, but gainsay implies disputing the truth of what another has said.

no one can gainsay her claims

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of contradict But a leaker contradicts this, claiming that the 17 Pro models will continue using titanium. PC Magazine, 3 Sep. 2025 Although United Nations data appears to contradict the White House narrative, the reality is more complex. Stefano Pozzebon, CNN Money, 1 Sep. 2025 Blood spatter on the hood outside the car contradicted Buford Pusser’s statements. Audrey McAvoy, Twin Cities, 31 Aug. 2025 Kennedy has tried to advance anti-vaccine policies that are contradicted by decades of scientific research. Mary Clare Jalonick, Chicago Tribune, 31 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for contradict
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contradict
Verb
  • To me, debate is about forming your own arguments and pushing yourself to refute curveball counters.
    Ashanty Rosario, The Atlantic, 3 Sep. 2025
  • Other organizations and scientists have refuted the DOE’s review, including the American Meteorological Society, which highlighted further flaws in the report and urged a correction of the findings by the agency.
    Connor Greene, Time, 2 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • All three Cabinet members denied wrongdoing.
    Robert Faturechi, ProPublica, 6 Sep. 2025
  • Judge Gary Arnold denied the motion Thursday morning.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 5 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Several world leaders have already rejected the plan and insisted that the only solution is the creation of a Palestinian state once Hamas hands over the hostages and a new Palestinian government takes over.
    Michele Chabin, The Washington Examiner, 5 Sep. 2025
  • Shi seemed confident that Strand Larsen, who was keen to join Newcastle United before the deadline, will knuckle down despite Wolves rejecting two bids.
    Steve Madeley, New York Times, 5 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Contradict.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contradict. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on contradict

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