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contrive Synonyms

Another word for contrive

Choosing another word for contrive depends on context, so the 13 synonyms and similar words below are separated across 2 exact definitions and ranked by match strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

To create, devise, or bring about a plan, scheme, or object through deliberate skill, ingenuity, or artifice.

Usage Example

"The engineers managed to devise a temporary cooling system using spare parts found in the workshop."

Strongest
devise
concoct
Strong
invent
engineer
fabricate
orchestrate
formulate
dream up
cook up

• verb (Context 2)

To manage or succeed in doing something despite difficulty, or in a way that seems unlikely or foolish (used with an infinitive).

Usage Example

"Despite the clear instructions, he somehow contrived to assemble the bookshelf completely backward."

Strongest
manage
Strong
succeed
arrange
pull off

Opposites of contrive

The opposite of contrive shifts depending on context. Common opposites include:

fail
destroy
ruin
See all opposites of contrive

• Nearby Words

contrite
contrition
contrivance
contrive
contrived
contriver
control

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Contrive. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/contrive
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