Contrary to popular opinion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Contrary to popular opinion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to present a viewpoint or fact that differs from what is commonly believed or accepted by the majority. Example: "Contrary to popular opinion, not all cats dislike water; some actually enjoy playing in it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Contrary to popular opinion, I am actually very shy.

The Guardian - Music

Contrary to popular opinion, this association is far from established.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Contrary to popular opinion, looks don't really matter.

The Guardian - Music

Contrary to popular opinion, giants still walk that tired, old corner of the earth called Broadway.

The New York Times

Contrary to popular opinion, owls are not blind in strong light.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Contrary to popular opinion, there are teenagers who are simply good kids, famous or not.

The New York Times

Contrary to popular opinion, women are allowed in the Royal Marines.

The Guardian

Contrary to popular opinion, he says, this is not a golden age of horror.

The Guardian - Books

Contrary to popular opinion, Catholic schools aren't skimming the best students.

The New York Times

Contrary to popular opinion, Marx was no enemy of capitalism as such.

The Guardian - Opinion

Contrary to popular opinion, the recent rule changes work in your favor.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using this phrase, ensure that the statement following it is well-supported by evidence or a logical argument to maintain credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "Contrary to popular opinion" without providing a clear and credible alternative perspective. Using it to state a personal opinion without support weakens the statement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Contrary to popular opinion" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying the following clause by introducing a contrast or exception to a widely held belief. It sets the stage for presenting an alternative viewpoint, as Ludwig AI also recognizes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Contrary to popular opinion" is a versatile adverbial phrase used to introduce statements that challenge common assumptions. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and widespread use. It's prevalent in news, encyclopedias, and science, serving to offer alternative viewpoints and correct misconceptions. When employing this phrase, ensure that you provide well-supported evidence to bolster your argument and avoid undermining your credibility. Consider alternatives like "against the common belief" or "despite what people commonly think" depending on your desired tone and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Against the common belief

Replaces "contrary" with "against" maintaining a similar level of formality.

Contrary to popular understanding

Substitutes "opinion" with "understanding", shifting the emphasis slightly.

Despite what people commonly think

Emphasizes the contrast with a widespread assumption.

In opposition to popular belief

Highlights the act of disagreeing with what many people think.

Unlike what is generally believed

Highlights the divergence from a typical viewpoint.

Many assume, but in reality

Sets up a contrast between a common assumption and the actual situation.

It is often thought that, but

Uses a contrasting structure to introduce a different fact or idea.

The truth is actually

Directly introduces an alternative reality to what's broadly assumed.

Public perception is that, however

Highlights public perception before contrasting with the reality.

What most people don't realize is

Focuses on revealing a less known aspect or truth.

FAQs

How can I use "Contrary to popular opinion" in a sentence?

Use "Contrary to popular opinion" to preface a statement that goes against what most people believe. For example, "Contrary to popular opinion, the movie was not a critical success."

What's a more formal way to say "Contrary to popular opinion"?

For a more formal tone, you could use phrases like "in contrast to common belief" or "despite what people commonly think".

Is it always necessary to provide evidence after stating "Contrary to popular opinion"?

While not always mandatory, providing evidence or a reasoned argument after "Contrary to popular opinion" strengthens your statement and makes it more persuasive.

What's the difference between "Contrary to popular opinion" and "In my opinion"?

"Contrary to popular opinion" introduces a viewpoint that opposes a widely held belief, implying a broader basis than personal preference. "In my opinion" simply states a personal belief without necessarily contradicting a popular view.