contrary opinion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contrary opinion" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a viewpoint that opposes or differs from another opinion or perspective. Example: "While many support the new policy, there is a contrary opinion that suggests it may have negative consequences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Others, perhaps intentionally, maintain precisely the contrary opinion to this.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

As a variety of memoirs and journalistic accounts have made plain, Bush seldom entertains contrary opinion.

The New Yorker

Eszterhas claims to have invented Stone; many people might hold the contrary opinion.

The New York Times - Books

The risk to MY life outweighs the will to express a contrary opinion.

The New York Times

Best of all, Arthur deeply enjoyed our plays and musicals almost always, never hesitating to share a contrary opinion.

The New York Times

When Mother takes up current events and dares to show a contrary opinion to his he gets very incensed indeed.

The New Yorker

The correspondence appears to show efforts to limit publication of contrary opinion and to evade Freedom of Information Act requests.

The New York Times - Science

She also pursued them through persuasion and reasoned argument that had respect for both the facts and the right of others to hold a contrary opinion.

The Guardian - Opinion

And sure enough, a contrary opinion came from a cabdriver, Ben Stevens, who was caught in the vortex at Seventh Avenue and 45th Street.

The New York Times

Were you bad?' ") "I think jocks are taking on a new status symbol now," Johnny Damon, formerly known as the Caveman, told me, offering a contrary opinion.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

He called Occidental a "classic contrary-opinion play," adding that he disagreed with the conventional wisdom that Occidental overpaid for a series of recent oil property acquisitions in Texas and California.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When presenting a "contrary opinion", acknowledge the validity or context of the primary viewpoint before introducing the alternative. This demonstrates fairness and strengthens your argument.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "contrary opinion" as inherently superior without addressing the merits or context of the initial viewpoint. Acknowledge the validity of the original position to enhance your credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contrary opinion" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It is used to identify an opposing viewpoint or perspective, as demonstrated by Ludwig, which confirms it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

16%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "contrary opinion" is a versatile and commonly used noun phrase that identifies an opposing viewpoint. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable. Its communicative purpose involves introducing alternative perspectives, typically in discussions, analyses, or debates. With a neutral to formal register, it is suitable for academic, journalistic, and professional contexts. When using "contrary opinion", it's best practice to acknowledge the original viewpoint before presenting the alternative, and avoid oversimplifying the initial position. Alternatives include "opposing view" and "dissenting opinion", offering nuanced ways to express disagreement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Opposing view

Focuses on the opposition or disagreement inherent in the alternative perspective.

Dissenting opinion

Emphasizes a formal disagreement, often in legal or official contexts.

Alternative viewpoint

Highlights the presence of a different perspective or way of seeing things.

Conflicting perspective

Stresses the clash or incompatibility between different viewpoints.

Different stance

Indicates a different position or attitude towards a particular issue.

Opposite position

Indicates a position that is directly opposed to the prevailing one.

Counter argument

Highlights the act of arguing against a particular point.

Divergent opinion

Emphasizes the divergence or separation of opinions.

Reverse perspective

Highlights a viewpoint that is the inverse of the common one.

Alternative assessment

Focuses on the element of judgment in a differing evaluation.

FAQs

How can I effectively present a "contrary opinion"?

To present a "contrary opinion" effectively, start by acknowledging the prevailing view. Then, introduce your alternative perspective with clear reasoning and supporting evidence. Use phrases like "However", "On the other hand", or "Alternatively" to signal the shift in viewpoint.

What are some alternative phrases to "contrary opinion"?

You can use alternatives such as "opposing view", "dissenting opinion", or "alternative viewpoint" depending on the context.

In what situations is it important to consider a "contrary opinion"?

Considering a "contrary opinion" is crucial in debates, discussions, and decision-making processes. It helps in identifying potential flaws in existing arguments and fosters a more comprehensive understanding of the issue.

What's the difference between "contrary opinion" and "popular belief"?

"Contrary opinion" refers to a view that opposes the prevailing or common perspective, while "popular belief" describes an idea or viewpoint widely accepted by the majority. A "contrary opinion" stands in opposition to a "popular belief".