contrariwise

[ kon-trer-ee-wahyz kuhn-trair- ]

adverb

1. in the opposite direction or way.
2. on the contrary; in direct opposition to a statement, attitude, etc.
3. perversely.

contrariwise

/ ˈkɒntrərɪˌwaɪz /

adverb

1. from a contrasting point of view; on the other hand
2. in the reverse way or direction
3. kənˈtrɛərɪˌwaɪz in a contrary manner

Word History and Origins

Origin of contrariwise¹

First recorded in 1300–50, Middle English contrary-wyse; contrary, -wise

Example Sentences

What about, contrariwise, sweet relish, because somehow a cloying element is desirable with fish?

From Seattle Times

The aura of evitability haunts this tale; so does, contrariwise, the mounting helplessness of those who were deeply offended by the Nazis but unable to stop them.

From Washington Post

The contrariwise case has long been China, with its amazing expansion.

From Forbes

At the same time, contrariwise, McEwan also wants to locate his novel in what he calls "the family division" of English prose, the "morally centred fiction of George Eliot, Conrad, James and even Austen".

From The Guardian

Casting them contrariwise subverts the clichés in their characters.

From New York Times

Related Words

• contrarily