Quite the contrary

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Quite the contrary" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is the opposite of what has been stated or implied. Example: "Some may think that the project is failing; quite the contrary, it is actually ahead of schedule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Indeed, quite the contrary.

The New Yorker

No. Quite the contrary.

The New Yorker

It's quite the contrary.

The New York Times

A. Quite the contrary.

The New York Times

But it hasn't -- quite the contrary.

The New York Times

"No, no, quite the contrary," he said.

The New York Times

He answered no, quite the contrary, he found them wonderful.

The New York Times - Arts

A. No, no, quite the contrary, and I'll explain.

The New York Times

You're not being lazy or selfish — quite the contrary, according to the new research.

The New York Times - Science

In fact, if there is a larger point, it is quite the contrary.

The New York Times

Promised price savings from deregulating public utilities have never materialized, quite the contrary.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "Quite the contrary" to introduce a direct contradiction or to correct a misconception. This phrase is effective in formal writing and speech when you want to clearly indicate that the opposite of what was stated is true.

Common error

Avoid using "Quite the contrary" when a simple "no" or a more nuanced response is appropriate. This phrase is best reserved for situations where a direct and emphatic contradiction is needed, not when clarification or slight disagreement is sufficient.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Quite the contrary" functions as a discourse marker or conjunctive adverbial. It introduces a statement that directly opposes or contradicts a previous assertion. This is supported by Ludwig examples where it negates prior assumptions and introduces alternative viewpoints.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Quite the contrary" is a versatile phrase used to express a direct contradiction or strong disagreement. As Ludwig AI states, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, its usage extends to Science and Formal & Business contexts, indicating a formal to neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure it is employed to introduce a clear reversal of a prior statement, avoiding ambiguity. Alternatives include "on the contrary" and "just the opposite", each offering slight variations in emphasis. Remember, while seemingly straightforward, context is key to ensure that "Quite the contrary" conveys the precise meaning intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Quite the opposite

Very close in meaning, but with slightly different emphasis.

On the contrary

A more direct and common synonym, suitable for most contexts where you want to express the opposite is true.

Rather the opposite

A slightly more formal way of saying the opposite is true.

Just the opposite

Emphasizes a complete reversal of what was previously stated or implied, often simpler and more direct.

In fact, the opposite is true

Adds emphasis and explicitly states the reversal, useful for clarifying misunderstandings.

Far from it

Idiomatic expression indicating that the previous statement is not at all true, but rather the opposite.

If anything, the reverse is true

Suggests that any effect is actually in the opposite direction, adding a nuanced correction.

Actually, it's the other way around

Informal and conversational way to indicate a reversal of circumstances or understanding.

Conversely

A formal adverb indicating a reversed situation or statement, suitable for academic or technical contexts.

Not at all

A shorter, more emphatic negation that implies the contrary.

FAQs

How can I use "Quite the contrary" in a sentence?

"Quite the contrary" is typically used to strongly negate a previous statement. For example, "Some may think the project is failing; "quite the contrary", it's ahead of schedule."

What are some alternatives to "Quite the contrary"?

You can use alternatives like "on the contrary", "just the opposite", or "actually, the opposite is true depending on the context.

Is "Quite the contrary" formal or informal?

"Quite the contrary" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's generally perceived as slightly more formal than phrases like "not really" or "not at all".

What's the difference between "Quite the contrary" and "on the contrary"?

The phrases "Quite the contrary" and "on the contrary" are very similar in meaning and usage. "Quite the contrary" might be considered slightly more emphatic, but they are largely interchangeable.