Integendeel
Example: Ik dacht dat hij boos was, maar integendeel, hij lachte.
Definition
"Integenteel" is an adverb used to indicate a meaning opposite to what was previously stated or implied. It functions to contradict or negate a prior assumption or statement, as in the phrase: 'I thought he was angry, but integendeel, he was laughing.'
Etymology
The Dutch word "integendeel" combines 'in' (meaning 'in' or 'on') with 'tegen' (meaning 'against') and 'deel' (meaning 'part' or 'portion'). Together, they convey the idea of being 'on the opposite side' or 'contrary.' Did you know it literally means 'on the opposite part'?
Learn to use this expression actively
"Integendeel" appears in the Vocaplus list "Dutch - General - Idioms and Proverbs - (B1) - set 1", containing 105 commonly used expressions.
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