contrary to expectation; deliberately; precisely
Meanings
3 senses · 9 examplesadverb
deliberately contrary; perversely
Highlights a willful or unreasonable action that goes against common sense or others' advice.
Everyone advised him not to go, but he stubbornly refused to listen.
I told her to wear more, but she insisted on wearing this thin coat.
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After everyone discussed it and the problem was solved, he still had to nitpick and split hairs.
adverb
contrary to hope or expectation; unfortunately; as luck would have it
Expresses frustration or disappointment when reality does not match one's hopes, often due to bad timing or coincidence.
When I urgently needed money, the bank system was unfortunately under maintenance.
He came to see me on Sunday, but as luck would have it, I wasn't at home.
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The forecast said it would be sunny, but it unfortunately rained heavily today.
adverb
precisely; only; just (restricting scope)
Emphasizes a single, often disappointing, exception within a group or situation.
All the other colleagues passed the exam, but precisely he didn't.
Everyone else came early, but only he was late.
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Why do troubles always fall precisely on my head?