Al contrario
Example: Pensé que iba a llover, pero al contrario hizo sol.
Definition
"Al contrario" is a Spanish expression used to indicate opposition or contradiction to a previous statement or expectation, similar to saying 'on the contrary' or 'quite the opposite' in English. For example, it highlights that something turned out differently than expected.
Etymology
The expression "al contrario" comes from the Spanish words 'al,' a contraction of 'a' (to) and 'el' (the), and 'contrario,' meaning opposite or contrary. It literally means 'to the opposite,' reflecting its use to introduce a contrasting idea. Did you know this phrase neatly encapsulates disagreement or correction in conversation?
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"Al contrario" appears in the Vocaplus list "Spanish - General - Modismos y refranes - (B1) - parte 1", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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