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Synonyms

contrariwise

American  
[kon-trer-ee-wahyz, kuhn-trair-] / ˈkɒn trɛr iˌwaɪz, kənˈtrɛər- /

adverb

  1. in the opposite direction or way.

  2. on the contrary; in direct opposition to a statement, attitude, etc.

  3. perversely.


contrariwise British  
/ ˈkɒntrərɪˌwaɪz /

adverb

  1. from a contrasting point of view; on the other hand

  2. in the reverse way or direction

  3. in a contrary manner

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of contrariwise

First recorded in 1300–50, Middle English contrary-wyse; see origin at contrary, -wise

Vocabulary lists containing contrariwise

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

What about, contrariwise, sweet relish, because somehow a cloying element is desirable with fish?

From Seattle Times Jul. 27, 2021

Thrasymachus: I have no reason to speak contrariwise.

From Slate Oct. 14, 2014

At the same time, contrariwise, McEwan also wants to locate his novel in what he calls "the family division" of English prose, the "morally centred fiction of George Eliot, Conrad, James and even Austen".

From The Guardian Aug. 31, 2014

Casting them contrariwise subverts the clichés in their characters.

From New York Times Jun. 10, 2014

I will not speak contrariwise to these men, for it is meet that I should speak fairly.

From Seeds of Pine by Janey Canuck

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