The spelling of the phrase "were contrary to" is quite straightforward, with each word spelled exactly as expected. "Were" is pronounced /wər/, with the first syllable being a shorter version of "we" and the second syllable rhyming with "fur." "Contrary" is pronounced /ˈkɒntrəri/, with the stress on the second syllable and the "ar" sounding like "air." "To" is pronounced /tu/, with a short "o" sound and a silent "e" at the end. Together, these words express opposition or disagreement.
"Were contrary to" is a phrase that implies opposition or disagreement between two or more elements, concepts, ideas, or actions. It signifies a state where one thing or situation is opposing or contradicting another. The phrase, "were contrary to," suggests a distinction, discrepancy, or variance that is marked by conflicting characteristics or attributes.
In a context of comparison or evaluation, the phrase most commonly denotes a scenario wherein an expected or desirable outcome or result was not achieved. It indicates a situation where the observed circumstances or outcome were in contrast or in conflict with what was initially anticipated or desired.
The phrase is frequently utilized to highlight contradictions or inconsistencies in behavior, beliefs, opinions, or decisions. It implies that one's actions, choices, or words deviated from what was expected, logical, or rational. "Were contrary to" signifies a contradiction between what actually happened or was said or done, with what was considered to be more logical, consistent, or fitting.
Furthermore, "were contrary to" can also be employed to describe situations where one force or idea opposes, resists or contradicts another. It suggests a disagreement or conflict, where two or more entities collide in their respective goals, aims, characteristics, or nature.
Overall, "were contrary to" encapsulates a sense of opposition, disagreement, contradiction, inconsistency, or conflict between two or more elements, ideas, actions, or outcomes.