contrary to

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 In the remote rural communities affected, these vital protective measures can run contrary to local burial practices, which has been a source of many people’s anger. Tom Soufi Burridge, ABC News, 28 May 2026 But contrary to the company’s bold claims, numerous world records didn’t fall on Sunday. Justin Birnbaum, Sportico.com, 26 May 2026 Officers rushed the process, issued conflicting demands, failed to de-escalate and treated Lewis’ non-threatening movement toward compliance as justification for deadly force — all actions contrary to the reform that was supposed to be underway in the department, the lawsuit alleges. Lauren Penington, Denver Post, 25 May 2026 That was contrary to the agency's thinking on Friday, just hours after the leak caused the first evacuation orders on Thursday night. Austin Turner, CBS News, 24 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for contrary to
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contrary to
Preposition
  • The White House has also threatened secondary sanctions against companies that pay fees to Iran.
    Hanna Ziady, CNN Money, 4 June 2026
  • Amid an ongoing lawsuit filed by Phillip Pines against Khorram, Combs and several of his companies, Khorram is arguing that the case against her is legally insufficient, according to documents obtained by USA TODAY.
    Liza Esquibias, USA Today, 4 June 2026
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

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Cite this Entry

“Contrary to.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contrary%20to. Accessed 8 Jun. 2026.

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