Definition

1. Adverb / Adverbial Phrase:
   • Indicating that the opposite of what was just stated or assumed is true. It introduces or refers to a statement or fact that contradicts a previous one.

Usage

This phrase is used to correct or contradict a previous statement, assumption, or expectation. It often follows or refers to evidence or information that shows the opposite is true.

Examples

• Adverb / Adverbial Phrase:
  • I thought the project was canceled, but I just received an email to the contrary. (This means the email contained information contradicting the belief that the project was canceled.)
  • There is no evidence to the contrary; we must assume the report is accurate. (This means no evidence exists that contradicts the report's accuracy.)
  • Despite popular belief to the contrary, bats are not blind.

Advanced Usage

• "Notwithstanding (something) to the contrary": This formal legal or academic phrasing means "despite any information or rules that might suggest the opposite."
  • The contract is valid, notwithstanding any verbal agreements to the contrary.
• Used to introduce a contrasting clause after a negative statement.
  • He was not unfriendly; to the contrary, he offered us his help.

Variants and Related Words

• On the contrary: A more common and direct phrase used to strongly contradict what has just been said, often at the start of a sentence.
  • "You must be tired." "On the contrary, I feel full of energy."
• Contrary to (something): A prepositional phrase meaning "in opposition to."
  • Contrary to forecasts, the weather was beautiful.

Synonyms

• Contrariwise (formal/literary)
• Oppositely
• Conversely (introduces a statement that reverses one just made)

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Proof/Evidence to the contrary: Refers to information that disproves something.
  • He is assumed guilty until there is proof to the contrary.

Adverb

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