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The Hidden History of 'Contra': Separation, Opposition, and Change.

Contra.

The Latin prefix "contra" (against) has its roots in the Albanian language. Similar to "anti" from "anët" (sides), "contra" comes from "kam" (to have) and "da" (separate) in Albanian, with the "D" evolving into "T" over time. CONTRA = KONTRA = KON(N)TRA = KON(N)DRA = D>T KON(N)DAR, where KON = "to have" (infinitive form of the Geg Albanian verb) and (N)DAR = "separated" (from "da" of Geg Albanian language).

Linguists explain "contra" as derived from "com" (with, together) + "-tr" (comparative suffix). However, this etymology falls short in capturing the essence of "against". The prefix "com-" and "-ter-" don't convey the meaning of opposition or contrast inherent in "contra".

"Contra" denotes movement against something or indicates an opposite direction or action, reflecting the idea of opposition or contrast. A more comprehensive breakdown would be: "Contra" = "com-" (kam) + "-tr" (denoting separation from "n'dar" in Albanian) + implied opposition or contrast.

This understanding aligns with words like "contra", "contrast", "contur" and "control", all rooted in the Albanian "ndar" (separation). The connection between "ndar" (separation) and all these words lies in the idea of distinction or difference. When you divide, you create a separation, which can be seen as opposition or contrast.

In the case of "contra", the original Albanian meaning of "separation" evolved to include "against" or "opposition". This makes sense, as being against something means separating yourself from it or opposing it. Think of it as a physical boundary, where two things are distinct, reflecting opposition or contrast.

The connection to Albanian "dar" (n'darë), derived from the root "da", provides a convincing basis for the original meaning of "contra". Only this etymology captures the essence of division, opposition, or change, matching the word's basic meaning.

There is more evidence that veries the origin of "contra". The Albanian verb "dalloj" (to discern, recognize, distinguish, tell apart) is indeed connected to the concept of "contra" and further solidifies the etymological connection between the Latin prefix "contra" and the Albanian language.

The verb "dalloj" shares a similar root with the Albanian word "dar" (separated), from the same root "da"

The connection between "dalloj" and "contra" highlights the idea of distinction, separation, and opposition, which is at the core of the Latin prefix "contra". This further reinforces the notion that the Latin "contra" has its roots in the Albanian language, specifically in the concepts of separation, distinction, and opposition.

"Contur" is related to the same concept from "kon ndar". 

The connection between "contur" and "contra" is evident in the shared root "con-" or "kon-", which we've seen in other related words like "kon" (to have, infinitive form of Geg Albanian), and "ndar" (separated, divided).

The concept of "contur" as a border or limit highlights the idea of separation and distinction, which is central to the meaning of "contra" as well. This further reinforces the origin of prefix "contra" from the Albanian language.


Etymology must explore ancient language roots and evolution, and only languages like Albanian can shed light on word history. Albanian reveals the hidden treasures of language!

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