contrary approach

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contrary approach" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a method or strategy that opposes or differs from a prevailing or expected method. Example: "In contrast to the traditional methods, the researchers adopted a contrary approach to tackle the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Last week, a mutual fund with a contrary approach began operations.

The New York Times

If anything, he took a contrary approach, treating the score with musicianly respect, highlighting inner textures, drawing out delicate colorings and maximizing every moment of tenderness and refinement.

The New York Times - Arts

Product design followed from there, with aesthetics being the last consideration, a contrary approach to vehicle development, according to the duo.

The New York Times

When asked why Rogers ended up taking such a contrary approach to his job, friends point to the fact that he never trained as an engineer — the background of most energy executives.

The New York Times - Magazine

The contrary approach would at least keep him in the game as something to spur a higher bid from Silver Lake or Blackstone, which is most likely why Mr. Icahn is making the bid anyway.

The New York Times

This paper follows a contrary approach by introducing the Multi-Perspective Application Selection, a method to support researchers and industrial practitioners alike in identifying and choosing the most promising and sustainable applications for new materials under development.

Journal of Cleaner Production

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

[578 P.2d 925] accident victims run in directly contrary approaches the nonfault approach where negligence may be ignored and the comparative fault approach where the quantum of negligence is to be meticulously divided among the parties.

Harvard University

Contrary to approach 1, 3 and 4, approach 2 clearly underestimated optimism since MSE corrected for both n = 250 and 1000 were lower than MSE external, and even lower than the theoretical MSE (1.74= 3.028).

BMC Medical Research Methodology

On the contrary, this approach treats a concerned assembly of people as individuals with a right to be heard, as opposed to a faceless mass to be placated.

The New York Times

On the contrary, our approach effectively mitigates this problem by maintaining the sensing interval not to cause the TDP exceeding the required one.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

On the contrary, our approach can be applied in high-speed network and it also can be migrated to ten gigabit high-speed networks.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "contrary approach" to specifically indicate a deliberate deviation from a conventional or expected method. This conveys a sense of intentional opposition or difference.

Common error

Avoid using "contrary approach" when a simple "alternative" would suffice. "Contrary" suggests a stronger level of opposition than merely being different.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contrary approach" functions as an adjective-noun combination, where 'contrary' modifies 'approach'. This typically introduces a method or strategy that deviates from the norm or expectation, as supported by examples found by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Academia

30%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "contrary approach" effectively describes a method that intentionally opposes conventional practices. Ludwig's analysis shows that it is grammatically sound and used across various domains, including news, science, and academia. While "contrary approach" isn't the most frequent term, it carries a specific weight implying a stronger deviation than a simple "alternative strategy". When writing, it is important to consider if the situation warrants a deliberate deviation from the norm, as it can sometimes be perceived as confrontational. The analysis confirms that it's a valid and useful phrase when a distinct opposition is intended.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

opposing method

Focuses specifically on the act of opposing a standard method.

alternative strategy

Emphasizes a strategic divergence from a conventional plan.

different tactic

Highlights a change in the specific actions taken.

deviant methodology

Suggests a departure from established methodological practices.

reverse technique

Implies an inverted or backward application of a process.

unorthodox procedure

Highlights the unconventional nature of the process.

novel approach

Stresses the new and innovative quality of the method.

radical solution

Points to a far-reaching and transformative solution.

dissimilar way

Simply refers to a different mode of action or process.

non-conformist style

Highlights the non-conforming aspects in the strategy.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "contrary approach" in a sentence?

You can use "contrary approach" to describe a method that is opposite to what is generally expected. For example, "The company decided to take a "contrary approach" to marketing, focusing on negative advertising".

What are some alternatives to saying "contrary approach"?

Alternatives to "contrary approach" include "opposing method", "alternative strategy", or "different tactic". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it always appropriate to use a "contrary approach"?

While a "contrary approach" can be effective, it's not always suitable. It's important to consider whether the situation warrants a deliberate deviation from the norm, as it can sometimes be perceived as confrontational.

What's the difference between a "contrary approach" and an "alternative approach"?

A "contrary approach" suggests a direct opposition to a standard method, while an "alternative approach" simply indicates a different option. The former implies a more deliberate and potentially confrontational departure.