A phrase used to introduce a statement that directly opposes or contradicts what has just been said or suggested.
This phrase entered English in the 14th century from Old French 'contraire' and Latin 'contrarius' meaning 'opposite' or 'against.' The word 'contrary' comes from 'contra' (against) combined with a suffix indicating direction, literally meaning 'turned against.'
Interestingly, 'contrary' shares its root with 'country' - both come from Latin 'contra' meaning 'against' or 'opposite.' A country was originally land that lay 'opposite' or 'facing' you, while contrary ideas face opposite directions from each other!
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