contrary to popular belief

The opposite of what most laypeople would think is true.

Japanese Meaning

一般の人々が信じていることとは正反対の事実である / 大衆の常識や信念とは逆の状況を示す / 世間一般の考えとは異なる

Many people think honey never spoils, but contrary to popular belief, it can ferment if contaminated.

多くの人ははちみつは腐らないと思っているが、一般の人の考えとは反対に、雑菌が入ると発酵することがある。

Sense（1）

The opposite of what most laypeople would think is true.

Contrary to popular belief, Columbus was not the first person to discover America.