What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
inverse
Example
The inverse of addition is subtraction. [inverse: noun]
Example
As the temperature increases, the pressure decreases - this is an inverse relationship. [inverse: adjective]
Example
The company's new policy had the inverse effect on employee morale. [inverse: noun]
contrary
Example
Contrary to popular belief, not all snakes are venomous. [contrary: preposition]
Example
The results of the experiment were contrary to what the researchers had predicted. [contrary: adjective]
Example
She said she was happy, but her actions were contrary to her words. [contrary: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Contrary is more commonly used than inverse in everyday language. Contrary is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while inverse is less common and is typically used in technical or specialized fields.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between inverse and contrary?
Inverse is generally considered more formal than contrary, which can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
