contravene - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
contravene Word Meanings
- to violate a rule or law
- to act against something
- to contradict or oppose
contravene Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
contravene Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌkɒntrəˈviːn/
US
/ˌkɑːntrəˈvin/
contravene Word Etymology
Root decomposition: contra- (against) + venire (to come). Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Picture a traffic sign that says 'No Entry'—to contravene is like ignoring that sign and driving against the flow.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Contravene is a formal verb meaning to violate a rule or law, to act against something officially prescribed, and to contradict or oppose a principle in a way that breaches expectations. You contravene a statute by breaking it, or you contravene a company policy by doing something forbidden. In legal and policy writing, contravene signals a binding breach; in debates you might contravene an argument by presenting compelling evidence. The sense of crossing a sanctioned boundary is captured by the image of ignoring a No Entry sign. Although rare in everyday speech, contravene appears in reports, judgments, and formal discussions about compliance, regulation, and governance.
Usage Reminders
- Use for formal breaches of rules or laws
- Transitive: contravene something (a rule, a law, a policy)
- Not the same as contradict: contradicts a statement; contravene breaches rules
- Common in legal, policy, and governance writing
- Often followed by to or a specific rule or regulation
Common Misconceptions
- Confused with contradict: opposite of a statement vs breaking a rule
- Used for mild or everyday disobedience; it is actually formal and strong
- Mistaking it as meaning 'to oppose' without a rule or law
- Thinking it can stand alone; it needs an object (a rule, law, policy)
- Confusing with 'converge' or other non-related terms
Thinking Differences
In English, contravene is a formal term used in law, policy, and governance. Learners often think it only means 'oppose' or confuse it with contradict; the key is to remember it means breaching a rule, not merely disagreeing with a claim.
Learning Tips
- memorise the core meaning: breach of rule or law
- distinguish breach vs oppose vs contradict
- learn common collocations: contravene a rule, contravene a regulation
- read formal/legal texts to see authentic usage
- practice with a policy or compliance scenario
- note that it is transitive and needs an object
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the definition of 'contravene'?
A.To obey a law
B.To violate or go against
C.To support an argument
D.To clarify a statement
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'contravene' correctly?
A.She chose to contravene her plan by following it precisely.
B.His actions were seen to contravene the club rules.
C.To contravene the instructions, he followed them exactly.
D.The speech would contravene the audience's expectations.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'contravene'?
A.Abide
B.Disobey
C.Follow
D.Agree
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'contravene'?
A.Comply
B.Ignore
C.Reject
D.Defy
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where rules are followed or broken?
A.A person chooses to uphold the constitution.
B.The decision made by the council followed community guidelines.
C.He often contravenes the rules set by his employer when he is late.
D.Ignoring safety regulations at a construction site can be dangerous.
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