to the contrary

Idioms  

1. To the opposite effect, in denial, as in No matter what they say to the contrary, I am positive that he was present. This idiom was first recorded in 1512. Also see on the contrary.

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Example Sentences

Lithgow, to the contrary, was clearly stunned — and deeply honored.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 8, 2026

Javadli rejected the accusations and her Emirati legal team submitted evidence to the contrary in court.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

It cemented their status as the series favorites, giving their fans reason to believe that it might finally be New York’s year—despite a lifetime of evidence to the contrary.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 20, 2026

And, despite many headlines to the contrary, JPMorgan Chase says that 90% of households can afford to cover a $400 emergency expense.

From MarketWatch • May 13, 2026

Yes, autumn had surely come when the hot-chestnut man appeared—no matter what the weather said to the contrary.

From "A Tree Grows in Brooklyn" by Betty Smith