Contrary Definition & Meaning
contrary
- adjective
- very opposed in nature or character or purpose; "acts contrary to our code of ethics"; "the facts point to a contrary conclusion"
- of words or propositions so related that both cannot be true but both may be false; "`hot' and `cold' are contrary terms"
- resistant to guidance or discipline; "Mary Mary quite contrary"; "an obstinate child with a violent temper"; "a perverse mood"; "wayward behavior"
- in an opposing direction; "adverse currents"; "a contrary wind"
- noun
- a relation of direct opposition; "we thought Sue was older than Bill but just the reverse was true"
- exact opposition; "public opinion to the contrary he is not guilty"
- a logical relation such that two propositions are contraries if both cannot be true but both can be false
"Contrary" in song lyrics
See how contrary is used in real songs:
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"You defeat me, beat me, on the contrary"
Apache — Get Ya Weight Up -
"down back by the end I say dont get contrary"
Blackalicious f/ Lateef — Back to the Essence -
"Too much of somethin' is not good, on the contrary"
Celph Titled f/ Apathy — Political Gangstas
Words that rhyme with contrary
Usage tips for "contrary"
Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "contrary" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for contrary to find words that pair well.