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contretemps [n. KON-tru-tan] Accident, misadventure, mischance, mishap, and hitch are all near
synonyms of contretemps. A contretemps is an unexpected mishap or unforeseen event that
disrupts the normal course of things. This French word can also mean an argument, dispute, or
disagreement. Example: "Jim and Rob had a little contretemps at the game last night and still are not speaking."
Contretemps is a French word made up of contre (against) and temps (time) which is
derived from the Latin tempus. This noun has been describing embarrassing accidents and
awkward clashes since the late 1600s. This word also has a specific meaning in dance terminology.
It is a step danced on the unaccented portion of the beat, particularly in ballet.