Opinion

əˈpɪnjən

nounBeginnerVery CommonLegal

Definitions

2 meanings
1

A belief or judgment held about something or someone.

əˈpɪnjən

nounneutralBeginner
Legal

A view or judgment formed about something, not necessarily based on fact or knowledge.

What is your opinion on the movie?

💡 Simply: It's what you *think* or *feel* about something. Like, your opinion on pizza is that it's delicious!

👶 For kids: What you think about something.

More Examples

2

I have a different opinion on the matter.

3

Her opinion carries a lot of weight in this community.

How It's Used

General discourse

"People have differing opinions on the new policy."

Formal settings

"The judge delivered his opinion on the case."

2

A formal statement of advice or judgement from a professional.

əˈpɪnjən

nounformalmedium
Legal

A formal statement of advice by an expert on a professional matter.

The lawyer gave his opinion on the case.

💡 Simply: It's like when a doctor tells you what they think is wrong with you, or a lawyer gives you their thoughts on your legal problem. It's a formal statement.

👶 For kids: When a grown-up expert tells you what they think.

More Examples

2

The court issued its official opinion on the matter.

3

The expert gave his opinion on the viability of the project.

How It's Used

Legal

"The Supreme Court delivered its official opinion."

Medical

"The doctor gave his medical opinion on the patient's condition."

Tip:Think of a judge, or a doctor, giving a formal opinion.

Idioms & expressions

in my opinion

Used to introduce one's view or belief on a matter.

"In my opinion, we should take a break."

have an opinion on something

To hold a view or belief about a specific topic.

"Everyone seems to have an opinion on climate change."

From Middle French *opinion*, from Latin *opinio* ('a belief, judgment, view'), from *opinari* ('to think, suppose').

The word 'opinion' has been used since the 14th century, evolving from a general sense of belief to more specific usages in legal and professional contexts.

Memory tip

Think of what you believe and express it - that's your opinion!

opinnionopinon

Usage

65%Spoken
35%Written