à contre-courant

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Translating...
against the current, against the grain
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/a kɔ̃tʁ.ku.ʁɑ̃/
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In the opposite direction from a current or prevailing trend.

Examples

  • Ils nagent à contre-courant pour rejoindre la rive.
    They swim against the current to reach the bank.
  • À contre-courant des grandes chaînes, ce restaurant mise sur une carte très courte.
    Against the trend set by major chains, this restaurant offers a very short menu.
  • Elle a toujours aimé penser à contre-courant.
    She has always liked thinking against the grain.
  • Cette décision va à contre-courant des attentes du secteur.
    This decision goes against the prevailing trend in the sector.
  • Son avis semble à contre-courant de l'opinion générale.
    His view seems at odds with general opinion.

Similar words

à rebrousse-poil
à rebours

Meanings

Against the prevailing flow

opinion
neutral
Describes physical movement against a current or a choice that resists the usual trend.

Examples

  • Cette décision va à contre-courant des attentes du secteur.
    This decision goes against the prevailing trend in the sector.
  • Elle a toujours aimé penser à contre-courant.
    She has always liked thinking against the grain.
  • À contre-courant des grandes chaînes, ce restaurant mise sur une carte très courte.
    Against the trend set by major chains, this restaurant offers a very short menu.
  • Son avis semble à contre-courant de l'opinion générale.
    His view seems at odds with general opinion.
  • Ils nagent à contre-courant pour rejoindre la rive.
    They swim against the current to reach the bank.

Similar words

Etymology

Built on contre-courant, an opposing flow of water; the figurative use applies that image to ideas and behaviour.

FAQ

What does à contre-courant mean?

Against a current or prevailing trend.

Can it describe an opinion?

Yes, an opinion may oppose what most people think.

Can it describe swimming?

Yes, it also applies to moving against water flow.

What does aller à contre-courant suggest?

Choosing a direction opposed to the usual one.

Is the phrase fixed?

Yes, the expression keeps à contre-courant unchanged.

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