Basic Details
Word: Contrary
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Opposite in nature, direction, or meaning; totally different.
Synonyms: Opposite, conflicting, adverse
Antonyms: Similar, agreeable, consistent
Idioms and Phrases
- On the contrary: Used to introduce a statement that disagrees with what has just been said. Example: "He thought the movie would be boring, but on the contrary, it was quite exciting!"
- Contrary to popular belief: Used to introduce a statement that goes against what most people think. Example: "Contrary to popular belief, not all birds can fly."
Usage Examples
Example 1: Her views on the subject are contrary to what most people think.
Example 2: The weather forecast was contrary to our plans for a picnic, predicting rain instead of sunshine.
Example 3: Although he is often contrary, he is trusted for always presenting a different perspective.
Fun Fact
The word "contrary" comes from the Latin "contrarius", which means "opposed" or "against". It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe things that are different or opposing.
Famous Quote
"The contrary of everything is true." - Paul Valery
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "contrary" mean?
a) Similar in nature
b) Opposite in nature
c) The same as
d) Helpful
Answer: b) Opposite in nature
2. Which of these is a synonym of "contrary"?
a) Harmonious
b) Adverse
c) Alike
d) Similar
Answer: b) Adverse
3. Which word is an antonym of "contrary"?
a) Conflicting
b) Opposite
c) Similar
d) Adverse
Answer: c) Similar
4. Which sentence uses "contrary" correctly?
a) The contrary of a cat is a fish.
b) Contrary to the rules, he followed his own judgments.
c) She loves ice cream, but on the contrary, hates chocolate.
d) The sky was contrary and turned cloudy.
Answer: b) Contrary to the rules, he followed his own judgments.
5. What does the phrase "on the contrary" mean?
a) To agree with someone
b) To suggest a similar idea
c) To disagree with what was said
d) To accept an idea
Answer: c) To disagree with what was said
