1. to plan or scheme cleverly to bring about something
2. to manage to do or achieve something despite difficulties
3. to create or invent something in a skillful or clever way

Examples

• She contrives elaborate excuses to avoid the meeting.
• Despite the rain, he contrives to finish the outdoor project.
• The engineer contrives a new solution to the technical problem.
• They contrive a plan to surprise their friend on her birthday.
• The author contrives an unexpected twist in the final chapter.
• He always contrives to be late for important appointments.
• The chef contrives delicious meals from simple ingredients.