Crossword Genius

Contrary way — how Edward Lear worked? (7)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

inverse

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'contrary' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I cannot understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for inverse that I've seen before include "The exact opposite of enviers" , "A direct opposite" , "Reversed in position like enviers" , "Upside down - opposite in effect" , "Opposite (like poetry?)" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
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