Definition

Something that is planned or made up rather than happening naturally; it often seems forced or unrealistic.

Example

The movie's ending felt contrived and didn't resonate with the audience.

Conversation

Did you see that new movie everyone is talking about?

Yeah, I watched it last night, but I thought the ending felt a bit contrived.

I agree! It seemed like they forced it just to surprise the audience.

Exactly! A more natural conclusion would have made it so much better.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Contrived → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "trahere" (meaning to pull or draw). The word suggests something that has been pulled together or artificially created, rather than occurring naturally.

Memory Tip

Think of something that has been 'pulled together' ('trahere') in an artificial way ('con-'). This helps you remember that 'contrived' means something that is deliberately created rather than naturally occurring.

Visually Confused Words