Opinion Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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opinion
[əˈpɪnjən ]
Definitions
expressing a personal belief
A view or judgment formed about something, not necessarily based on fact or knowledge. Opinions can vary greatly among individuals and are subjective in nature. They can be influenced by personal experiences, emotions, and biases.
Synonyms
belief, judgment, perspective, view.
Examples of usage
- My opinion is that chocolate is the best dessert.
- She asked for my opinion on the matter.
- I respect your opinion, even though I may not agree with it.
a formal statement by an expert
A formal statement by an expert on a professional matter. It is usually based on expertise, research, and factual information. Expert opinions are highly valued in fields such as law, medicine, and science.
Synonyms
assessment, evaluation, expertise, judgment.
Examples of usage
- The doctor's opinion was that surgery was the best course of action.
- The legal expert provided his opinion on the case.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Psychology
- An individual's opinion can be influenced by personal experiences, emotions, and cultural background.
- The concept of 'confirmation bias' explains how people tend to favor information that confirms their existing opinions.
- Group dynamics often affect personal opinions; individuals may change their views to fit in with social groups.
Media
- In journalism, the distinction between news and opinion pieces plays a vital role in informing the public accurately.
- Opinion polls are a common way to gauge public sentiment on various issues, often influencing political decisions.
- Social media has transformed how opinions are shared, allowing individuals to express thoughts on a global scale instantly.
Philosophy
- Philosophers like Plato argued that opinions are less valuable than knowledge and truth.
- Skepticism in philosophy examines the reliability of opinions, questioning how much we can truly know.
- Different philosophical schools offer varied perspectives on the nature and value of opinions.
Pop Culture
- Reality TV and talk shows often focus on expressing personal opinions, reflecting the diverse beliefs of society.
- The phrase 'everyone's entitled to their own opinion' has become popularized in discussions about debate and dialogue.
- Social media influencers often create content that revolves around sharing their opinions, affecting trends and consumer behavior.
Origin of 'opinion'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'opinari', meaning 'to think, believe, or suppose'.
- In Middle English, it evolved to 'opynyon', which carried similar meanings.
- The word has been used in English since the 14th century, reflecting personal thoughts or judgments.
The word 'opinion' has its roots in the Latin word 'opinio,' meaning 'a thinking, belief, or judgment.' It entered the English language in the late 14th century. Over time, 'opinion' has evolved to encompass personal beliefs as well as formal statements by experts. The concept of opinion has been central to philosophical debates about knowledge and truth.
See also: opine.