/kən'traɪvəns; kən`traɪvəns/
n
1 [C] ~ (for doing sth/to do sth)
(a) device or tool, esp one made by an individual for a particular purpose 机械装置或用具（尤指为某用途而特制之物）
*a contrivance for cutting curved shapes 可作曲线切削的用具
* He erected some contrivance for storing rain-water. 他装设了一种贮存雨水的器具.
(b) complicated or deceitful plan 计谋; 骗术
*an ingenious contrivance to get her to sign the document without reading it 为使她不经过目就签署文件的妙计.
2 [U] capacity to do or accomplish sth 能力
*Some things are beyond human contrivance. 有些事情人们是无能为力的.
3 [U] action of contriving 发明; 设计
*the contrivance of an effective method 一种实用方法的产生.

n formal
[C]
something that is artificial or does not seem natural, but that helps something else to happen - usually used to show disapproval
　A ridiculous series of plot contrivances moves the film along.
[U and C]
a plan or trick to make something happen or get something for yourself, or the practice of doing this
　Harriet's matchmaking contrivances
[C]
a machine or piece of equipment that has been made for a special purpose
　a steam-driven contrivance used in 19th century clothing factories