“Contrived” is an adjective used to describe something that appears forced, artificial, or overly planned, often to the point where it seems unnatural or lacking in authenticity. When something is described as contrived, it typically implies that it has been manipulated or manufactured in a way that is not genuine or spontaneous. For example, a contrived smile might look insincere because it is forced rather than coming from genuine happiness. In literature or storytelling, a contrived plot twist might feel artificial if it seems too convenient or unrealistic. Overall, “contrived” is used to highlight the sense of artificiality or unnaturalness in various contexts.