Counterintuitively Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐คฏ
counterintuitively
[หkaสntษrษชnหtjuหษชtษชvli ]
Definition
in explaining surprising results
In a way that contradicts what one would expect to be logical or straightforward.
Synonyms
contrary to expectations, surprisingly, unexpectedly.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| counterintuitively |
Use this word when something goes against common sense or typical logical reasoning, especially in complex or scientific contexts.
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| unexpectedly |
Use this word when something happens without warning or preparation, often in both casual and formal contexts.
|
| contrary to expectations |
This phrase is best used when the outcome or situation differs from what people generally anticipated or believed would happen.
|
| surprisingly |
Applied when something is unexpected or causes surprise, often in everyday contexts with a neutral or positive connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- Counterintuitively, the study found that eating more actually led to weight loss.
- Counterintuitively, slowing down production actually increased profits for the company.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- People often make decisions based on gut feelings, which can sometimes be misleading, causing counterintuitive outcomes.
- Research shows that our brains can favor immediate rewards, even when long-term benefits appear counterintuitive.
- Cognitive biases can lead us to make choices that are the opposite of what would logically benefit us.
Science
- In physics, counterintuitive phenomena occur, such as an object appearing to fall upward under certain conditions.
- Counterintuitive results often drive scientific inquiry, leading to groundbreaking discoveries despite initial resistance.
- In biology, survival instincts can be counterintuitive; many animals behave contrary to what one might expect to ensure safety.
Education
- Teaching methods that seem counterintuitive, like discovery learning, can sometimes lead to better understanding.
- In math, counterintuitive solutions may arise from complex problems where the simplest answer seems incorrect.
- Student learning can be enhanced by challenging preconceived notions, even when they feel 'wrong' or unexpected.
Pop Culture
- Films often use counterintuitive twists to surprise audiences, making plots more engaging and unpredictable.
- In literature, characters may face counterintuitive choices that reveal deeper themes about human nature.
- Songs that defy expected patterns can catch listeners' attention, leading to hits that resonate surprisingly well.
Origin of 'counterintuitively'
Main points about word origin
- The word combines 'counter', meaning against, with 'intuitive', which suggests an instinctive feeling.
- First used in the early 20th century, its usage has grown as logic began to challenge popular beliefs.
- It reflects a blend of Latin influences, stemming from 'intuitus', meaning to look into or contemplate.
The term 'counterintuitively' is derived from the words 'counter' meaning against or opposite, and 'intuitive' meaning based on what one feels to be true even without conscious reasoning. It became popular in the late 20th century as a way to describe results or conclusions that go against common sense or expected logic. The use of 'counterintuitively' helps to highlight the unexpected nature of certain findings or situations.