Both Uses of
contrary
in
The Merchant of Venice
- Therefore, for fear of the worst, I pray thee set a deep glass of Rhenish wine on the contrary casket; for if the devil be within and that temptation without, I know he will choose it.†
Scene 1.2 (definition 1) *
- Have you heard any imputation to the contrary?†
Scene 1.3 (definition 2) *
Definitions:
-
(1) (on the contrary as in: on the contrary) an expression used to intensify denial of an ideaeditor's notes: More rarely, on the contrary is used to oppose an idea contained in what was just said rather than to oppose what was literally said. Here is an example: "I will not pay you for the work. On the contrary, I may sue you for damages." Suing for damages does not oppose not paying, but it does oppose the idea of paying.
-
(2) (to the contrary as in: to the contrary) with an opposite or different effect; or something with an opposite or different effect