it contravenes

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it contravenes" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that something goes against a rule, law, or agreement. Example: "The new policy is problematic because it contravenes existing labor laws."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

TNK-BP has secured an injunction preventing BP from completing the share swap with Rosneft and freezing negotiations, claiming that it contravenes its shareholder agreement requiring BP to offer the joint venture first refusal on any business opportunities in Russia.

The Guardian - Business

TNK-BP has secured an injunction preventing BP from completing the share swap with Rosneft and freezing negotiations, claiming that it contravenes its shareholder agreement requiring BP to offer the joint venture first refusal on any further business opportunities in Russia.

The Guardian - Business

Reports say that two US congressmen have written to Apple asking why the firm allows the practice on its iPhone, as it contravenes app developer guidelines.

The Guardian - Tech

Two US congressmenhave written to Appleasking why the firm allows the practice on its iPhone, as it contravenes app developer guidelines.

BBC

A spokeswoman for Visa Europe said its investigation would determine the nature of Wikileaks' business, and "whether it contravenes Visa operating rules".

BBC

It contravenes the spirit of the Olympics".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

TVE pulled bullfighting from its schedules last year, saying it contravened its code of conduct for programmes before Spain's late evening watershed hour.

The Guardian

Last week the Church of England said it planned to exit a £75,000 investment in Wonga, which it held via a series of venture capital funds, because it contravened its ethical policy.

The Guardian - Business

Today, the U.K. Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) announced that it would be issuing the social network with its maximum fine, £500,000 ($662,000) after it concluded that it "contravened the law" — specifically the 1998 Data Protection Act — "by failing to safeguard people's information".

TechCrunch

It contravened BBC policy.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Will it contravene social norms?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider synonyms like "it violates" or "it breaches" if they provide a more direct or easily understood meaning in your context.

Common error

Avoid using "it contravenes" when the subject merely differs from, rather than directly violates, a rule or principle. Use "it differs from" or "it diverges from" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it contravenes" typically functions as a verb phrase within a sentence, indicating that a particular action, policy, or law conflicts with or violates an established rule, agreement, or principle. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it contravenes" is a grammatically sound and usable expression to indicate a violation or conflict with a rule, law, or principle, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While not extremely common, it is frequently used in news and media, science, and formal business contexts. Its formality level is neutral leaning towards formal, making it suitable for discussions involving legal or ethical implications. When using this phrase, clarity is key – clearly state what rule or principle is being violated. For alternatives, consider "it violates", "it infringes upon", or "it breaches" for similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it violates

Directly indicates a breach or infringement of a rule or law.

it infringes upon

Implies a restriction or encroachment on someone's rights or freedom.

it breaches

Suggests a failure to observe the terms of an agreement or law.

it defies

Highlights a bold or open resistance to a rule or expectation.

it conflicts with

Indicates a direct opposition or incompatibility with something else.

it runs counter to

Suggests opposition to or deviation from a standard or expectation.

it is at odds with

Expresses disagreement or conflict with established norms or principles.

it transgresses

Implies going beyond or overstepping established boundaries or limits.

it flouts

Indicates open disrespect and disregard for a rule or convention.

it contravenes the spirit of

Emphasizes that while not literally breaking the rules, it goes against their intent.

FAQs

What does "it contravenes" mean?

The phrase "it contravenes" means that something violates, goes against, or conflicts with a rule, law, agreement, or principle. For example, "The new policy is problematic because "it contravenes" existing labor laws."

How can I use "it contravenes" in a sentence?

Use "it contravenes" to indicate a direct conflict or violation. Ensure that the subject "it" clearly refers to something that actively goes against an established rule or standard. Example: "The proposed change "it contravenes" the original agreement."

What can I say instead of "it contravenes"?

You can use alternatives like "it violates", "it infringes upon", or "it breaches" depending on the context.

Is "it contravenes" formal or informal?

"It contravenes" is generally considered a formal expression. In less formal contexts, consider using "it goes against" or "it breaks".