1.
contrary, opposite, contradictory
Describes a situation where something is the opposite of what is expected, or where one's words and actions do not match. Most commonly used in the pattern ～とは裏腹に (contrary to ~).
言葉とは裏腹に涙があふれた。
Contrary to her words, tears overflowed.
期待とは裏腹に、結果は散々だった。
Contrary to expectations, the results were terrible.
明るい笑顔とは裏腹に、彼の心の中は不安でいっぱいだった。
Contrary to his bright smile, his heart was full of anxiety.
USAGE:
Almost always appears in the pattern ～とは裏腹に (contrary to ~). The phrase sets up a contrast between an outward appearance or expectation and the actual reality.
PATTERN:
- Noun + とは裏腹に: contrary to [noun]
- 言葉とは裏腹に: contrary to one's words
- 期待とは裏腹に: contrary to expectations
- 本心とは裏腹に: contrary to one's true feelings