に反して (ni hanshite): Contrary to expectations or rules
～に反して (ni hanshite)
Meaning
Contrary to; against
Formation and usage
Noun + に反して before a clause; noun + に反する + noun when modifying a noun.
Explanation
Describe something contrary to an expectation, wish, or rule. It is not simply a comparison of any two characteristics; the result conflicts with what was expected or required. Ni hansuru modifies a following noun.
Examples
予想に反して、試験はそれほど難しくありませんでした。
Contrary to expectations, the exam was not very difficult.
親の希望に反して、彼は別の道を選びました。
Against his parents' wishes, he chose a different path.
規則に反する行動は認められません。
Behavior that violates the rules is not allowed.
期待に反して、その店のサービスはよくありませんでした。
Contrary to my expectations, the service at that restaurant was poor.
本人の意思に反して、計画が進められていました。
The plan was being carried out against the person's wishes.
How related patterns differ
ながらも and つつも express contrast, while ながら and つつ also have separate simultaneous-action uses. 反面 contrasts two aspects of one thing; に反して means contrary to expectations or rules. にかかわらず means the result does not depend on a condition.