CONTRAVENE Synonyms: 50 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the verb 'contravene' differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of contravene are contradict , deny , and gainsay . While all these words mean "to refuse to accept as true or valid," contravene implies not so much an intentional opposition as some inherent incompatibility. // laws that contravene tradition

Q: When is it sensible to use 'contradict' instead of 'contravene'?

While in some cases nearly identical to contravene , contradict implies an open or flat denial. // her account contradicts his

Q: When can 'deny' be used instead of 'contravene'?

The words deny and contravene can be used in similar contexts, but deny implies a firm refusal to accept as true, to grant or concede, or to acknowledge the existence or claims of. // denied the charges

Q: In what contexts can 'gainsay' take the place of 'contravene'?

The words gainsay and contravene are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, gainsay implies disputing the truth of what another has said. // no one can gainsay her claims

contravene

verb

ˌkän-trə-ˈvēn

Definition of contravene next

as in to violate

to fail to keep the unauthorized reproduction of the image contravenes copyright laws

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How does the verb contravene differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of contravene are contradict, deny, and gainsay. While all these words mean "to refuse to accept as true or valid," contravene implies not so much an intentional opposition as some inherent incompatibility.

laws that contravene tradition

When is it sensible to use contradict instead of contravene?

While in some cases nearly identical to contravene, contradict implies an open or flat denial.

her account contradicts his

When can deny be used instead of contravene?

The words deny and contravene can be used in similar contexts, but deny implies a firm refusal to accept as true, to grant or concede, or to acknowledge the existence or claims of.

denied the charges

In what contexts can gainsay take the place of contravene?

The words gainsay and contravene are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, gainsay implies disputing the truth of what another has said.

no one can gainsay her claims

Examples Sentences

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Recent Examples of contravene Iran has contravened the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) by enhancing its chemical weapons capabilities for home and international use, says the Institute for the Study of War (ISW). —

Yaakov Katz, Newsweek, 28 Nov. 2024 Trump’s claim to have impoundment power contravenes a Nixon-era law that forbids presidents from blocking spending over policy disagreements as well as a string of federal court rulings that prevent presidents from refusing to spend money unless Congress grants them the flexibility. —

Molly Redden, ProPublica, 26 Nov. 2024 Despite Guterres reiterating that Russia's invasion contravenes the UN Charter, Ukraine's leadership remains firm in opposing any engagement that legitimizes Russia's actions. —

Katya Soldak, Forbes, 29 Oct. 2024 Audi Side-view cameras cut drag slightly, but contravene the federal motor vehicle safety standards. —

Jonathan M. Gitlin, Ars Technica, 31 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for contravene