Counter to (preposition):
1. Opposed, contrary, or contradictory to; conflicting with; running counter to. It refers to actions, beliefs, ideas, or principles that oppose or contradict another, leading to a contrasting or opposite result or effect.
Example: His actions were counter to his stated beliefs, causing confusion among his followers.
2. In opposition to, not in accordance with, or divergent from a particular norm, standard, or expectation. It emphasizes the disparity between what should be expected or considered normal and what is actually observed or practiced.
Example: Her behavior during the meeting was counter to professional etiquette, making her colleagues uncomfortable.
3. In defiance of or resisting a specific force, trend, or influence. It implies acting in a way that goes against the prevailing or dominant sentiment or established conventions.
Example: The author's deliberate use of unconventional narrative techniques was counter to traditional storytelling methods.
4. Contrasting or clashing with the desires, preferences, or interests of someone or something. It illustrates a mismatch between the goals, intentions, or desires of individuals or groups.
Example: The political agenda of the party was counter to the interests of the working class.
In summary, the phrase "counter to" refers to actions, beliefs, ideas, or principles that contradict, oppose, or diverge from another, going against societal norms, expectations, established conventions, or the desires and interests of individuals or groups.
