Synonyms

to the contrary

Idioms

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.

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.

Arguments to the contrary are overly cautious and pedantic.

From Slate • Mar. 29, 2026

Despite mounds of evidence to the contrary, I just can’t bring myself to believe they have all the ingredients to become just the third franchise in baseball history to three-peat.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 22, 2026

He genuinely believes he can change reality simply by relentlessly stating something as fact in the face of all evidence to the contrary.

From Salon • Feb. 12, 2026

She added that despite the men's claims to the contrary, their behaviour had been "intended to cause alarm and distress".

From BBC • Feb. 2, 2026

Without asking their opinion, Severo made them marry, and, despite the predictions to the contrary of Nivea and her friends, they were very happy.

From "The House of the Spirits: A Novel" by Isabel Allende

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023