to the contrary
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- 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
- contrary to expectations; on the contrary, he went out with his friends"
- he didn't stay home