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contrariness JUST WRITTEN FOR YOU

/kənˈtrɛərɪnəs/ · con·tra·ri·ness
noun
  1. The quality or state of being contrary; obstinate opposition to what is expected or accepted. Her contrariness made it difficult to reach any compromise during the meeting.
  2. A tendency to disagree or to act in opposition for its own sake. He admired his brother’s contrariness, which kept the family debates lively.

Synonyms

obstinacydefiancedissentoppositionrecalcitranceintransigencedisagreeablenessperverseness

Antonyms

complianceagreeablenessconformityacquiescencedocilityamenability
Did you know? Samuel Johnson included 'contrariness' in his 1755 dictionary, noting it as a characteristic of those who delight in opposing others.

Related terms

contrarycontrarianobstinaterecalcitrantdisagreeablecontentious
Written by Lexi Wordsworth, Dictionary Editor 0 lookups Added Jul 17, 2026