English · Science & Technology
counterintuitive
/ˌkaʊn.tə.ɪnˈtjuː.ɪ.tɪv/
[/ˌkaʊn.tə.ɪnˈtjuː.ɪ.tɪv/]
against what seems obvious
Advancedadjective
Definition
Something counterintuitive goes against what intuition would expect. Speakers love sharing counterintuitive findings that surprise the audience.
Example
It seems counterintuitive, but resting boosts learning.
It seems counterintuitive, but resting boosts learning.
Etymology
From 'counter-' (against) plus 'intuitive'.
How & Where It’s Used
Used to introduce surprising, expectation-defying ideas.