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Contrive: meaning, definitions and examples

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contrive

 

[kənˈtraɪv ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

invent

To contrive means to create or invent something in a clever or skillful way. It can also refer to devising a plan or scheme, often with a sense of cunning or deception.

Synonyms

design, devise, engineer, formulate, plot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
contrive

This word often suggests cleverness or ingenuity, sometimes in a way that is slightly artificial or forced. It can have a negative connotation if used to describe a deceitful plan.

  • He contrived an elaborate plan to surprise his friends.
  • She contrived to meet him at the park without appearing too obvious.
devise

This is suitable for situations that require innovation and problem-solving. It suggests coming up with something new and effective, especially for strategies or plans.

  • They devised a plan to reduce costs.
  • He devised a new method for teaching mathematics.
design

Use this when talking about creating detailed plans or blueprints. It implies careful and deliberate planning and is commonly used in artistic, engineering, or architectural contexts.

  • She designed the layout of the new house.
  • The engineer designed a new type of bridge.
engineer

Commonly used in technical or mechanical contexts, this implies applying scientific principles to invent or construct something. It often connotes precision and practicality.

  • The scientists engineered a new vaccine.
  • She engineered a solution to the environmental problem.
formulate

Appropriate when discussing the creation of a systematic and organized plan, idea, or theory. It emphasizes clarity, method, and structure.

  • They formulated a policy to address the issue.
  • He formulated a theory based on his research.
plot

This word is often used in negative scenarios, particularly when talking about secret plans or schemes. It can imply underhanded or malicious intent.

  • The spies plotted to deceive the enemy.
  • She discovered their plot to overthrow the leader.

Examples of usage

  • He contrived a plan to escape from the prison.
  • She contrived a clever solution to the problem.
  • The villain contrived a plot to steal the treasure.
  • Despite the odds, he contrived a way to succeed.
  • The detective contrived a clever trap to catch the criminal.
Context #2 | Noun

device

As a noun, contrive can refer to a device or gadget, especially one that is cleverly made or put together.

Synonyms

creation, device, gadget, invention.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
contrive

Use this word when you are talking about creating something in a clever or skillful way, often with a sense of resourcefulness or inventiveness. It can sometimes have a negative connotation if it implies manipulation or deception.

  • She managed to contrive a quick solution to the unexpected problem.
  • He contrived a story to cover his absence from the meeting.
device

Best used when referring to a piece of mechanical or electronic equipment, especially one designed for a specific task. It often focuses on functionality and practicality.

  • She invented a new device to help the elderly climb stairs.
  • Keep your electronic devices away from water.
gadget

Use this word when referring to a small mechanical or electronic device that is cleverly designed to serve a particular function. It often implies novelty or cleverness.

  • This kitchen gadget can peel, core, and slice an apple in seconds.
  • He's always buying the latest tech gadgets.
invention

Applicable when you're talking about something newly created, often through imagination and ingenuity. It emphasizes originality and the act of inventing.

  • Thomas Edison is known for his invention of the light bulb.
  • Her invention won the grand prize at the science fair.
creation

Appropriate when you are speaking about bringing something new into existence, often used in artistic or innovative contexts. It typically emphasizes the act of bringing something into being.

  • The painter's latest creation was unveiled at the gallery.
  • Their invention has led to the creation of many new jobs.

Examples of usage

  • The contrive helped him solve the puzzle.
  • She admired the intricate contrive of the machine.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • This word comes from the Latin 'contrivare', meaning 'to twist together'.
  • The term has been used in English since the 14th century, evolving in meaning over time.
  • Initially, it emphasized the idea of creating something skillfully or artfully.

Literature

  • In storytelling, characters often contrive plans to achieve their goals, showcasing their cleverness.
  • Shakespeare frequently depicted characters contriving schemes that lead to drama and humor in plays.
  • In modern literature, protagonists often face challenges that require them to contrive solutions against the odds.

Psychology

  • The ability to contrive is linked to problem-solving and creativity, important traits for successful coping.
  • Cognitive flexibility, or the ability to think about multiple concepts simultaneously, enhances one’s capacity to contrive.
  • Individuals often contrive social scenarios to navigate complex interpersonality dynamics.

Pop Culture

  • Many heist films involve characters who contrive elaborate plans to pull off seemingly impossible robberies.
  • Television shows focused on clever plotting often feature protagonists who must contrive their way out of tricky situations.
  • Animated movies frequently depict characters contriving inventive gadgets or solutions to save the day.

Technology

  • Innovators in technology often contrive new applications or devices to solve everyday problems.
  • The concept of contriving is essential in engineering, as it involves devising efficient designs and strategies.
  • Startups typically contrive business models to disrupt established industries and introduce innovative products.

Translations

Translations of the word "contrive" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inventar

🇮🇳 सृजन करना

🇩🇪 erfinden

🇮🇩 menciptakan

🇺🇦 вигадати

🇵🇱 wymyślić

🇯🇵 考案する (こうあんする)

🇫🇷 inventer

🇪🇸 idear

🇹🇷 icat etmek

🇰🇷 고안하다

🇸🇦 اخترع

🇨🇿 vymyslet

🇸🇰 vymyslieť

🇨🇳 发明 (fāmíng)

🇸🇮 izumiti

🇮🇸 finna upp

🇰🇿 ойлап табу

🇬🇪 გამოგონება

🇦🇿 icad etmək

🇲🇽 idear

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,567, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.