contrary to

preposition

Definition of contrary tonext
as in against

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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 contrary to Advertisement But contrary to popular understanding among many today, Hiroshima did not convince Japan to surrender. — James M. Scott, Time, 10 Aug. 2026 One major influence on postwar psychoanalytic approaches to homosexuality was Sándor Radó, who, contrary to Freud, argued that heterosexuality was innate and universal. — Livia Gershon, JSTOR Daily, 4 Aug. 2026 Anger Anger is a strong feeling of annoyance, displeasure, or even hostility—and contrary to what many are taught to believe—anger does not have to be a negative emotion. — Jenna Autuori-Dedic, Parents, 4 Aug. 2026 Fattouh also accused Israeli officials of using the issue to justify taking control of the site, saying Smotrich's visit showed that the pools were not completely dry, contrary to claims by Efrat officials. — Amelie Botbol, FOXNews.com, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for contrary to
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contrary to
  1. against
  2. athwart
Preposition
  • Ukraine has developed an arsenal of long-range drones and its own cruise missiles which are being used against a widening array of targets inside Russia.
    — Tim Lister, CNN Money, 23 Aug. 2026
  • That’s tough to do against a good-hitting team, especially in a big part of their order, middle part of their order.
    — Justice delos Santos, Mercury News, 23 Aug. 2026
Definition of against
Preposition
  • An obstructionist Supreme Court, however, stood athwart the New Deal’s path.
    — John Fabian Witt, The New Republic, 26 Aug. 2022
  • One of the world’s largest container ships was wedged athwart the Suez Canal on March 23rd, blown off course by high winds.
    — The Economist, The Economist, 27 Mar. 2021
Definition of athwart

Browse Nearby Words

contrary
contrary to
contrast
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Cite this Entry

“Contrary to.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contrary%20to. Accessed 24 Aug. 2026.

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