contrary to opinion

USAGE SUMMARY

"contrary to opinion" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to emphasize that you disagree or strongly differ from what someone else thinks or believes about a subject. For example: Contrary to popular opinion, I believe that the new tax laws will actually benefit the majority of citizens.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Experience counts on the big nights, and contrary to opinion, experience can be bought.

The New York Times - Sports

Contrary to opinion, Gardiner's speeds are not so much fast as extreme: in the Sanctus and the consoling Et Vitam Venturi fugue, he's slower than some.

The Guardian - Music

In fact, contrary to opinion north of the Alps, where it is usually viewed simply as part of a salad, or even just plate decoration, in Italy it is regarded as a very important ingredient indeed, and often served as a course in its own right.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I have read heaps of agricultural & horticultural books, & have never ceased collecting facts At last gleams of light have come, & I am almost convinced (quite contrary to opinion I started with) that species are not (it is like confessing a murder) immutable.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

It may be that contrary to opinion pregnancy is in fact not a time when women are receptive to change.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

Contrary to opinion, pigeons are very intelligent and can find their way back to a roost from very far distances.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Contrary to opinions expressed by some historians, Campbell did not leave because of the battle's outcome.

Wikipedia

Japan's nuclear disaster, contrary to opinions expressed by Mr. Dimon and others, was absolutely predictable -- not as an inevitability, but as a possibility.

Huffington Post

Contrary to general opinion, it was Iran.

The New York Times

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

The Guardian

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

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "contrary to opinion", clearly define the opinion you are opposing to avoid ambiguity and ensure your counter-argument is well understood.

Common error

Avoid using "contrary to opinion" when simply presenting a different perspective. The phrase implies a direct contradiction to a widely held belief, not just a nuanced variation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contrary to opinion" serves as a discourse marker, signaling a shift in perspective or an introduction of a viewpoint that opposes a commonly held belief. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is used to emphasize disagreement or strong difference from others' thoughts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

16%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "contrary to opinion" is a useful tool for introducing perspectives that challenge widely held beliefs. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's grammatically correct and employed to express disagreement. While "contrary to opinion" is not overwhelmingly common, appearing in contexts like News & Media, its purpose is clear: to set the stage for an opposing argument. To ensure clarity, clearly define the opinion you're opposing. Consider alternatives like "in defiance of popular belief" when appropriate. Overall, this phrase adds argumentative strength to writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

running counter to popular perception

It means acting or being in opposition to how something is generally seen or understood by the public.

counter to prevailing thought

This alternative emphasizes a contrasting viewpoint to the dominant or current thinking.

diverging from accepted views

It means differing or straying from standard or conventional perspectives.

disagreeing with common assumptions

This phrase highlights the act of holding a different viewpoint from the generally accepted ones.

challenging conventional wisdom

This suggests questioning or disputing traditional or widely accepted beliefs.

at odds with prevailing wisdom

This phrase means in conflict or disagreement with what is generally considered wise or true.

not in accordance with the general view

This suggests a lack of agreement or conformity with the commonly held perspective.

in defiance of popular belief

This alternative underscores a direct challenge to widespread acceptance.

in opposition to the consensus

This indicates a stance against the majority agreement or viewpoint.

against the grain

This phrase suggests acting or thinking in opposition to the prevailing norms or expectations.

FAQs

How can I use "contrary to opinion" in a sentence?

Use "contrary to opinion" to introduce a statement that opposes a commonly held view. For example, "Contrary to opinion, studies show that moderate coffee consumption can have health benefits."

What are some alternatives to saying "contrary to opinion"?

You can use alternatives such as "in defiance of popular belief", "challenging conventional wisdom", or "running counter to popular perception".

Is it better to use "contrary to opinion" or "contrary to popular belief"?

Both "contrary to opinion" and "contrary to popular belief" are correct and can be used interchangeably. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey; "opinion" emphasizes individual viewpoints, while "belief" suggests a more widely accepted idea.

What is the difference between "contrary to opinion" and "in my opinion"?

"Contrary to opinion" introduces a statement that goes against what many people think, while "in my opinion" simply introduces a personal viewpoint, regardless of whether it conflicts with others' views.