Inside Speaking and Listening, Use of Contrary

 By Nate Feldman

When something is contrary to something else, it is opposite to that thing.  So, for example, if one teacher tells you it is OK to arrive whenever you want, and another teacher says that you have to be on-time or face the consequences, these ideas seem to be contrary to one another.

What is contrary to the following situations?  

1. A manager tells you cannot leave work early, even if it is to do something important with your family.

2. Your spouse or significant other always brings nice gifts for your anniversary.  

3. You parents tell you that you must keep your room nice and clean.

Further discussion: What are things that have happened to your life that seem contrary to one another?  For example, I have had some people say I am not very friendly. This is contrary to other people who say I am the friendliest person they know.