Contrariness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐คจ
contrariness
[หkษntrษrinษชs ]
Definitions
behavior
The quality or state of being contrary; opposition in nature, tendency, or action. It refers to the tendency to oppose or resist the actions or suggestions of others.
Synonyms
obstinacy, opposition, perversity.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| contrariness |
Describes a tendency to do things in an opposite way or resist direction without a clear reason.
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| opposition |
Refers to active resistance or disagreement with an idea, plan, or process.
|
| obstinacy |
Indicates a stubbornness that is fixated on holding one's own view, often leading to an unwillingness to change despite reason or logic.
|
| perversity |
Conveys a willful desire to behave inappropriately or to reject what is considered good and acceptable, often with negative connotations.
|
Examples of usage
- She is known for her contrariness, always taking the opposite stance in arguments.
- His contrariness often leads to conflicts with his colleagues.
character
The quality of being contrary or contradictory in nature; inconsistency or unpredictability. It refers to the state of being difficult to deal with due to unpredictable behavior.
Synonyms
capriciousness, inconsistency, unpredictability.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| contrariness |
Often used when describing someone's tendency to do the opposite of what is expected or asked. It can be negative if it causes problems.
|
| inconsistency |
Often refers to a lack of steady or reliable patterns in behavior, performance, or quality. It is usually negative because it implies unreliability.
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| unpredictability |
Describes the inability to foresee someone's actions or the outcome of a situation. It can be neutral or negative, depending on the context.
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| capriciousness |
Commonly used to describe whimsical, impulsive behavior that changes without warning. It is often used in a neutral or slightly negative sense.
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Examples of usage
- Her contrariness makes it hard to predict how she will react in any given situation.
- The child's contrariness often frustrates his parents.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that contrariness can be linked to certain personality traits, often associated with higher levels of creativity.
- Individuals who frequently exhibit contrariness might struggle with conformity and often question societal norms.
- Contrariness can sometimes be a defense mechanism, allowing individuals to assert their identity against external influences.
Literature
- Contrariness is a common theme in literature, often used to showcase character conflict and development.
- Famous literary figures like Holden Caulfield from 'The Catcher in the Rye' embody contrariness, often rejecting societal expectations.
- Poets often explore contrariness as a way to reflect the complexity of human emotions and relationships.
Pop Culture
- TV shows often feature contrarian characters who challenge the status quo, providing comic relief or dramatic tension.
- The 'grumpy cat' internet meme epitomizes contrariness, capturing the humorous side of opposing norms.
- Musicians sometimes embody contrariness, with artists like Bob Dylan famously defying popular music trends.
Philosophy
- Philosophically, contrariness raises questions about morality, ethics, and the nature of truth.
- Contrary arguments are vital in debates, encouraging critical thinking and well-rounded perspectives.
- Historically, figures like Socrates advocated for thinking contrary to popular beliefs to stimulate dialogue and understanding.
Origin of 'contrariness'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'contrariness' comes from the Latin word 'contrarius', meaning 'against' or 'opposite'.
- It evolved through Old French before settling into modern English usage in the early 16th century.
- In linguistic roots, it reflects a tendency to oppose or resist, evident in numerous related terms.
The word 'contrariness' originated from the Middle English word 'contrarious', which came from the Old French word 'contrarieus', ultimately derived from the Latin word 'contrarius'. Its usage dates back to the 14th century. The concept of contrariness has been explored in various philosophical and psychological contexts, highlighting the complexities of human behavior and thought.
See also: contrarily, contrariwise, contrary.