contretemps
/ˈkɒn.tɹə.tɑ̃ŋ/
Group 29Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (noun)
- An unexpected and unfortunate occurrence; a minor dispute or disagreement GRE
Example in Context
The diplomatic contretemps at the reception, involving a disputed seating arrangement, briefly overshadowed the substantive discussions that followed.
Synonyms
mishapclashsetback
Etymology
An unfortunate occurrence that occurs against the expected timing.
- contre (French) — against
- temps (French) — time
Memory Aid
🎺Sounds like “con trombone”
A musician accidentally playing a CON TROMBONE at the wrong moment, creating a hilarious musical disaster!
Visual Association
🤦♂️A man tripping over his own feet while trying to impress his date at a fancy dinner.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “contretemps” mean on the GRE?
contretemps (noun) means “An unexpected and unfortunate occurrence; a minor dispute or disagreement”. The diplomatic contretemps at the reception, involving a disputed seating arrangement, briefly overshadowed the substantive discussions that followed.
How to remember “contretemps” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “contretemps” sounds like “con trombone”. A musician accidentally playing a CON TROMBONE at the wrong moment, creating a hilarious musical disaster!
What are synonyms for “contretemps”?
Common synonyms: mishap, clash, setback.