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Definition of contrarily

contrarily

/ˈkɑːn.trə.rə.li/
con · trar · i · ly
Adjective:contrary
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contrarily Lexical Profile

contrarily Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In an opposite, contrasting, or unexpected way; on the contrary.

Example

"Most retail sectors struggled during the downturn; contrarily, discount grocers saw record growth."

2

In a perversely stubborn, willful, or uncooperative manner.

Example

"Every time the committee proposed a reasonable compromise, he contrarily insisted on the original plan."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

contraption
contrarian
contrarianism
contrarily
contrariness
contrary
contrast

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the adjective 'contrary' (via Old French from Latin 'contrarius', meaning 'opposite', derived from 'contra', meaning 'against') plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Contrarily. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/contrarily
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