Contra

Part of Speech

Preposition, Noun

Pronunciation

IPA: /ˈkɒn.trə/ (British), /ˈkɑːn.trə/ (American)

Phonetic: KON-truh

Definitions

• As a preposition: Against, in opposition to.
• As a noun: A member of a rebel group in Nicaragua during the 1980s.
• Used in music: A prefix denoting a lower octave, as in "contrabass."

Usage Examples

• "The argument was contra the prevailing opinion."
• "The Contras fought against the Sandinista government in Nicaragua."
• "He plays the contrabass in the orchestra."

Etymology

From Latin "contra," meaning "against, opposite." Used in various Romance languages with similar meanings.

Synonyms

• Against, versus, opposing (as a preposition)
• Rebel, dissident, guerrilla (as a noun)

Antonyms

• For, in favor of (as a preposition)
• Ally, supporter (as a noun)

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /ˈkɒn.trə/
• American English: /ˈkɑːn.trə/
• Spanish: /ˈkon.tɾa/

Historical Usage

The word "contra" has been used in Latin texts for centuries, later adopted into modern languages. The term gained political significance in the 20th century with the Nicaraguan Contras.

Cultural Nuances

In English, "contra" is mostly used in formal or academic contexts, whereas in Spanish and French, it is commonly used in everyday language.

More Information

"Contra" is widely used in music (e.g., contrabass), politics (e.g., the Contras), and debate (e.g., arguments contra a motion).