Runs counter to this

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Runs counter to this" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is in opposition or contradiction to a previously stated idea or argument. Example: "The proposed policy runs counter to this principle of fairness that we have established."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

But the U.S. runs counter to this.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Chimes of Freedom" runs counter to this narrowcasting idea, but that was the point.

The New York Times - Arts

"Any source of external energy, however weak, runs counter to this philosophy".

The New York Times - Sports

The record of the current Roberts court too often runs counter to this conception: its rulings tend to deny rather than promote access to justice.

The New York Times

But 10 Things runs counter to this preconception: it actually shows young people reading books, knowing about books - by Sylvia Plath and Betty Friedan.

The Guardian - Film

Differential pricing runs counter to this fundamental premise, which has had no small role to play in the Internet's explosive growth.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Yet most management methods run counter to this theory; for example, formal job appraisals are always the boss's appraisal of the subordinate.

Harvard Business Review

This runs counter to the behavior of most corporations and counter to our earlier attempts.

Harvard Business Review

This runs counter to the familiar view that equities become safer the longer you hold them.

The Economist

This runs counter to the journalistic mission to inform, educate and entertain.

The Guardian

All of this runs counter to the writing itself, at once tender and assured.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

For greater impact, follow "runs counter to this" with a brief explanation of why the contrast exists. This helps the reader understand the significance of the contradiction.

Common error

Avoid using "runs counter to this" when 'this' refers to a broad or ill-defined concept. Ensure 'this' has a clear and limited scope to prevent misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "runs counter to this" functions as a connector, indicating a contrast or opposition to a preceding statement or idea. It introduces information that contradicts or challenges what has already been established. As Ludwig AI underlines, this phrase suggests a deviation from an expected or previously stated position.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "runs counter to this" effectively signals opposition or contradiction, offering a nuanced way to present contrasting information. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and usable across various writing styles. While not overly frequent, it finds its place in formal writing, particularly in news, science, and business contexts. To ensure clarity, always ensure the "this" refers to a clearly defined concept. Alternatives include "contradicts this" or "is opposed to this", which can provide similar meaning with slightly different emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

contradicts this

Directly opposes or negates the preceding statement.

is opposed to this

Indicates a position of disagreement or resistance.

is in conflict with this

Suggests incompatibility or antagonism with the prior idea.

clashes with this

Emphasizes a sharp disagreement or collision.

is at odds with this

Highlights a state of variance or opposition.

invalidates this

Shows that something makes something else untrue.

is the antithesis of this

Presents something as the direct opposite.

belies this

Reveals the falseness of something.

differs from this

Highlights a divergence or dissimilarity.

is inconsistent with this

Indicates a lack of alignment or coherence.

FAQs

How can I use "runs counter to this" in a sentence?

Use "runs counter to this" to indicate that something opposes or contradicts a previously mentioned idea. For example, "The new evidence "runs counter to this" widely held belief".

What are some alternatives to "runs counter to this"?

Alternatives include "contradicts this", "is opposed to this", or "is in conflict with this", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does it mean when something "runs counter to this"?

It means that the thing in question opposes, contradicts, or is inconsistent with something previously stated or understood. It suggests a deviation from an expected or established norm.

Is "runs counter to this" formal or informal language?

"Runs counter to this" is generally considered neutral to formal language. It can be used in academic, journalistic, and professional contexts. Less formal alternatives might include "goes against this".