contraire

opposite, contrary

noun adjective kohn-TREHR Less Common

Usage Note

Contraire is used both as a noun (le contraire = the opposite) and as an adjective (un effet contraire = a contrary effect). The fixed phrase au contraire — meaning 'on the contrary' — is one of the most recognized French expressions in English. Bien au contraire adds extra emphasis.

Examples

"C'est le contraire de ce que j'ai dit."

Natural Translation

That is the opposite of what I said.

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