contrarier

The French verb "contrarier" means to annoy, upset, frustrate, or go against someone or something. It involves causing displeasure, opposition, or hindrance.

Meanings and uses:

1. To annoy or upset someone emotionally:

   • Cette remarque m'a contrarié. (That remark annoyed/upset me.)

2. To thwart or go against (plans, expectations, intentions):

   • La pluie a contrarié nos projets. (The rain frustrated/thwarted our plans.)

3. To oppose or prevent something from happening.

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Synonyms and differences with "contrarier":

• Embêter: Means to annoy or bother someone, often in a mild or playful way. Less strong than "contrarier."
  Example: Il m’embête avec ses questions. (He annoys me with his questions.)

• Fâcher: Means to make someone angry or upset. Usually implies stronger emotions than "contrarier," which can be milder frustration or disappointment.
  Example: Sa remarque m’a fâché. (His remark made me angry.)

• Déplaire: Means to be displeasing or cause dislike, often less direct or personal than "contrarier."
  Example: Cette idée me déplaît. (I dislike this idea.)

• Empêcher: Means to prevent or hinder something, often used for physical or practical obstruction, somewhat close to "contrarier" in it’s meaning of hindrance.
  Example: La pluie empêche le match. (The rain prevents the match.)

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Summary:

• Contrarier combines notions of both emotional upset and practical hindrance.
• It is stronger than "embêter" but can be less intense or personal than "fâcher."
• It also includes the idea of frustrating plans or expectations, more than just emotion.

Use "contrarier" when you want to express being upset or thwarted by something or someone.