Definition

1. Adverb:
   • In a manner that is opposite or opposed to what was expected or stated: Used to introduce a statement that contradicts a previous one or expresses an opposing fact.
   • In a willfully perverse or disobedient manner: Acting in a way that is deliberately contrary or uncooperative.

Usage and Examples

• Introducing a contradictory statement:

  • He claimed to dislike parties. Contrarily, he attended every single one last month.
  • The forecast predicted rain. Contrarily, the sun shone all day.

• Describing a perverse or oppositional manner:

  • The child behaved contrarily, refusing to do anything she was asked.
  • He often argues contrarily just for the sake of debate.

Advanced Usage

• "to act contrarily": to behave in a deliberately opposite or uncooperative way.
  • Instead of following the instructions, she chose to act contrarily.

Variants and Related Words

• Contrary (adj): opposite in nature, direction, or meaning.
  • His actions were contrary to his words.
• Contrariness (n): the quality or state of being contrary.
  • Her contrariness made the negotiation difficult.

Synonyms

• Conversely: introducing a statement or idea that reverses one just made.
• Oppositely: in an opposite manner.
• Perversely: in a way that shows a deliberate and obstinate desire to behave unacceptably.

Antonyms

• Similarly: in a similar way.
• Accordingly: in a way that is appropriate to the particular circumstances.
• Obediently: in a manner that follows rules or instructions.

Related Phrases

• On the contrary: used to intensify a denial of what has just been implied or stated by suggesting the opposite is true. (Note: This is a related phrase, not a direct usage of "contrarily").
  • "You must be tired." "On the contrary, I feel wide awake."

Adverb

1. contrary to expectations; on the contrary, he went out with his friends"
   • he didn't stay home
2. in a contrary disobedient manner