counterintuitive

[koun-ter-in-too-i-tiv, -tyoo-]

adjective

1. counter to what intuition would lead one to expect.

   The direction we had to follow was counterintuitive—we had to go north first before we went south.

counterintuitive

/ ˌkaʊntərɪnˈtjuːɪtɪv /

adjective

1. (of an idea, proposal, etc) seemingly contrary to common sense

2. intelligence collected about enemy espionage

Word History and Origins

Origin of counterintuitive¹

First recorded in 1960–65; counter- + intuitive

Example Sentences

This counterintuitive practice—known as “acquitted-conduct sentencing”—has long been criticized by legal scholars, civil-rights advocates, and even a diverse group of Supreme Court justices.

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“It is perhaps counterintuitive that in order to create an environment conducive to growth, monetary policy must remain restrictive for longer,” she said.

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To emerge with a fresh-from-the-Dunkin’ feeling is counterintuitive, she said, like applying a sugary doughnut glaze to clean skin.

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As counterintuitive as it may seem, political science shows that would-be dictators need strong public support, especially early in the regimes.

Read more on Salon

Whilst seemingly counterintuitive, Charlotte says allowing a child to pick what they want to eat can actually encourage them to try more things.

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Related Words

• unreasonable