WordGarden.ioopinion
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /əpˈɪniən/
US
- /əˈpɪnjən/
Meanings
Noun
a belief, view, or judgment about something
a judge's written explanation of a legal decision
Beyond the definition
An opinion is what someone thinks about something. It is a personal belief or view, not necessarily a fact. Everyone has opinions! You might have one about the best pizza topping, or a more serious one about an important social issue. These views are often shaped by our experiences and values.
Think of it like this: if everyone agreed on everything, life would be pretty boring! Sharing opinions helps us learn from each other, even when we disagree. A movie critic gives an opinion on a film, a friend shares an opinion about your new haircut, and you have an opinion about whether pineapple belongs on pizza (a very important question!).
An opinion is a belief or judgment that a person forms about something. It is a subjective view, meaning it is based on personal feelings, tastes, or interpretations rather than clear, provable facts. While facts can usually be checked with evidence, opinions show how someone thinks or feels about something.
Opinions are formed through a mix of experiences, knowledge, values, and emotions. They are often influenced by our upbringing, culture, and the people around us. For example, one person might think cats make better pets than dogs, while another prefers dogs. These are different personal views, not simple facts to prove.
The word "opinion" comes from a Latin root related to thinking. It is often used in discussion, debate, or evaluation. You might ask for someone's opinion on a plan, read an opinion piece in a newspaper, or give your own opinion during a conversation.
It is important to tell the difference between facts and opinions. A fact can be checked with evidence, while an opinion is a personal interpretation or preference. Knowing the difference helps with clear thinking and respectful communication. You can hold your own opinion, but it also helps to listen to other perspectives and understand the reasons behind them. So, whether the topic is art, politics, or pizza toppings, opinions help show who we are and keep conversations interesting.
Examples
- 1
Asking for advice
I asked Mia for her opinion before I bought the jacket.
- 2
Group discussion
Everyone at the table had a different opinion about the plan.
- 3
Work arrangement
What's your opinion on working from home?
- 4
Personal view
In my opinion, the second version is clearer.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Honest feedback
She gave her honest opinion, even though it was hard to hear.
- 6
Changed judgment
My opinion of the manager changed after he apologized.
- Patternopinion of + person/thing
what you think about their quality or character
- 7
High praise
He has a very high opinion of his sister's work.
- Patternhave a high opinion of + person/thing
think they are very good
- 8
Medical advice
The doctor suggested getting a second opinion before surgery.
- Phrasesecond opinion
advice from another professional before making a decision
- 9
Subjective judgment
Whether the movie is funny is really a matter of opinion.
- Phrasea matter of opinion
something people can reasonably disagree about
- 10
Journalism
The newspaper published an opinion piece about school lunches.
- Phraseopinion piece
an article that gives the writer's view
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- in my opinion
- public opinion
- expert opinion
- difference of opinion
Word family
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Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- opinionnoun
Forms
- opinionspluralnoun