contrary

[[t]kɒ̱ntrəri, AM -treri[/t]]

1) ADJ: usu v-link ADJ to n Ideas, attitudes, or reactions that are contrary to each other are completely different from each other.

This view is contrary to the aims of critical social research for a number of reasons...

Several of those present, including Weinberger, had contrary information.

2) PHR-PREP (emphasis) If you say that something is true contrary to other people's beliefs or opinions, you are emphasizing that it is true and that they are wrong.

Contrary to popular belief, moderate exercise actually decreases your appetite...

Contrary to what you might think, neither man was offended.

3) PHRASE: PHR with cl You use on the contrary when you have just said or implied that something is not true and are going to say that the opposite is true.

It is not an idea around which the Community can unite. On the contrary, I see it as one that will divide us.

4) PHRASE (emphasis) You can use on the contrary when you are disagreeing strongly with something that has just been said or implied, or are making a strong negative reply.

`People just don't do things like that.' - `On the contrary, they do them all the time.'

5) PHRASE: PHR with cl (emphasis) You can use quite the contrary to emphasize a previous negative statement, or when you are making a strong negative reply.

I'm not a feminist, quite the contrary...

`Are there any signs that he may quit soon?' - `Quite the contrary.'

Syn:

quite the opposite

6) PHRASE: n PHR When a particular idea is being considered, evidence or statements to the contrary suggest that this idea is not true or that the opposite is true.

That does not automatically mean, however, that the money supply has been curbed, and there is considerable evidence to the contrary...

Despite repeated assurances to the contrary, Pakistan has not ended its nuclear programme.