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

See Examples For:

to the contrary

Despite the sometimes robust evidence to the contrary, college students and universities aren’t unintelligent.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 14, 2026

“House of the Dragon” continues to be disappointing, despite all hopes to the contrary.

From MarketWatch ● Jul. 31, 2026

But in June of last year, a three-judge panel of the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled to the contrary.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 2, 2026

"The judge made an express finding to the contrary," she said.

From BBC ● Jul. 1, 2026

“Frankly,” he said, after he had chewed and swallowed, “no matter what Bunny tells you to the contrary, he hasn’t a cent and neither does his father.”

From "The Secret History" by Donna Tartt