on the contrary

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Explanation of "on the contrary"

Definition:
The phrase "on the contrary" is used to show that something is different from what was just said or expected. It means "in contrast" or "instead."

Examples:

1. Basic Example:

   • A: "I thought you were tired and would stay home."
   • B: "On the contrary, I went out with my friends!" (Here, B is saying that instead of staying home, they did the opposite.)

2. More Complex Example:

   • A: "Many people believe that city life is boring."
   • B: "On the contrary, city life is full of excitement and opportunities!" (B is emphasizing that city life is not boring, but quite the opposite.)

Advanced Usage:

In more sophisticated writing or speaking, you might use "on the contrary" to introduce evidence or reasoning that contradicts a common belief or assumption.

Word Variants:

• The phrase itself does not have direct variants, but you can use it in different tenses or forms in sentences, such as:
  • "That is not true; on the contrary,..."
  • "They thought it would rain; on the contrary, the sun was shining."

Different Meanings:

While "on the contrary" mainly means "in contrast," it can also imply a strong disagreement with a previous statement.

Synonyms:

• Conversely
• In contrast
• Rather
• Instead

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs that are synonymous with "on the contrary," but you can use phrases like: - "Far from it" (to emphasize that something is not the case). - Example: "It's not hard work; far from it, it's quite enjoyable!"

Conclusion:

"On the contrary" is a useful phrase to express the opposite of what someone might expect or believe.

Academic

Adverb

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

Synonyms

• contrarily
• to the contrary
• contrariwise