Balky and Contrary

Balky

Balky adjective - Given to resisting authority or another's control.
Usage example: a balky toddler who only seemed to know the word “no” when told to do something

Contrary is a synonym for balky in attitude topic. In some cases you can use "Contrary" instead an adjective "Balky", when it comes to topics like obstinate, uncooperative. popular alternative

Nearby Words: balk, balked, balking

Contrary

Contrary adjective - Engaging in or marked by childish misbehavior.
Usage example: a contrary child who wouldn't behave

Balky is a synonym for contrary (North American) in attitude topic. You can use "Balky" instead an adjective "Contrary", if it concerns topics such as obstinate, perverse, antagonistic. informal substitute

Cite this Source
Contrary and Balky. (2016). Retrieved 2026, August 15, from https://thesaurus.plus/related/balky/contrary
Balky & Contrary. N.p., 2016. Web. 15 Aug. 2026. <https://thesaurus.plus/related/balky/contrary>.
Contrary or Balky. 2016. Accessed August 15, 2026. https://thesaurus.plus/related/balky/contrary.
Google Ngram Viewer shows how "balky" and "contrary" have occurred on timeline