Basic Details
Word: Contrary
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Opposite in nature, direction, or meaning.
Synonyms: Opposing, conflicting, contrary, adverse
Antonyms: Alike, similar, agreeable, harmonious
Idioms and Phrases
- On the contrary: Used to introduce a statement that contrasts with something just mentioned. Example: "Some say cats are unfriendly; on the contrary, they can be very affectionate."
- Contrary to popular belief: A phrase used when stating something that is different from what most people think. Example: "Contrary to popular belief, not all sharks are dangerous."
Usage Examples
Example 1: His ideas were contrary to what the teacher had taught in class, which made the discussion quite lively.
Example 2: The weather was contrary to our plans, so we decided to stay indoors and play games instead.
Example 3: Contrary to what many believe, the smallest bird in the world is the bee hummingbird, not a sparrow.
Fun Fact
The word "contrary" comes from the Latin word "contrarius," which means "against" or "opposite." This root can be seen in many English words that indicate opposition, like "contradict" or "contradiction."
Famous Quote
"To him who is in fear, everything rustles." - Sophocles. This quote reflects how a contrary perspective can change the way we perceive our surroundings.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "contrary" mean?
a) Alike and similar
b) Opposite in nature or direction
c) Helpful and friendly
d) Uncommon
Answer: b) Opposite in nature or direction
2. Which of these is a synonym of "contrary"?
a) Agreeable
b) Opposing
c) Similar
d) Alike
Answer: b) Opposing
3. Which is an antonym of "contrary"?
a) Adverse
b) Conflicting
c) Harmonious
d) Opposing
Answer: c) Harmonious
4. Which sentence uses "contrary" correctly?
a) The contrary news made everyone happy.
b) She was contrary and agreed with everything her friends said.
c) Contrary to my thoughts, he chose to study instead of playing.
d) They were contrary and laughed at the funny movie.
Answer: c) Contrary to my thoughts, he chose to study instead of playing.
5. What does the idiom "on the contrary" mean?
a) Agree with someone
b) Opposing something mentioned
c) To tell someone a secret
d) To play a game
Answer: b) Opposing something mentioned
