Definition of opinionnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun opinion contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of opinion are belief, conviction, persuasion, sentiment, and view. While all these words mean "a judgment one holds as true," opinion implies a conclusion thought out yet open to dispute.

each expert seemed to have a different opinion

When is it sensible to use belief instead of opinion?

While in some cases nearly identical to opinion, belief implies often deliberate acceptance and intellectual assent.

a firm belief in her party's platform

When can conviction be used instead of opinion?

The meanings of conviction and opinion largely overlap; however, conviction applies to a firmly and seriously held belief.

the conviction that animal life is as sacred as human

When might persuasion be a better fit than opinion?

In some situations, the words persuasion and opinion are roughly equivalent. However, persuasion suggests a belief grounded on assurance (as by evidence) of its truth.

was of the persuasion that everything changes

When is sentiment a more appropriate choice than opinion?

The words sentiment and opinion can be used in similar contexts, but sentiment suggests a settled opinion reflective of one's feelings.

her feminist sentiments are well-known

In what contexts can view take the place of opinion?

The words view and opinion are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, view suggests a subjective opinion.

very assertive in stating his views

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of opinion Vote here The Baltimore Sun reader poll is an unscientific survey in which website users volunteer their opinions on the subject of the poll. Baltimore Sun Staff, Baltimore Sun, 16 Feb. 2026 Dickinson was known to share strong opinions that veered negative and even mean-spirited on the judging panel. Malia Mendez, Los Angeles Times, 16 Feb. 2026 And the willingness to take anyone's opinion and then see what works and what doesn't and what's good about it. Dalton Ross, Entertainment Weekly, 16 Feb. 2026 Afterward, the Senate and House will work out any differences in opinion over that state budget. Sofi Zeman, Kansas City Star, 15 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for opinion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for opinion
Noun
  • According to reporting by The New York Times, births in 1966 fell sharply amid a belief that girls born in a Fire Horse year would bring misfortune to their future husbands.
    Nicole Buss, Sacbee.com, 15 Feb. 2026
  • Shaped by biblical ethics, nonviolence, and the belief that justice is indivisible, his framework refused the logic of zero-sum morality.
    Ed Gaskin, Boston Herald, 15 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • On Tuesday, the council did not make any comments about its decision during a special meeting with a single item to approve of the new contract.
    Ishani Desai, Sacbee.com, 18 Feb. 2026
  • There’s no need to book a table here, as all four restaurants reserve a space for residents, ideal for my often last-minute dining decisions.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The event will focus on wisdom and wellness, featuring engaging speakers, meaningful conversations, and breathtaking coastal views paired with exceptional cuisine, according to a news release.
    Ut Community Press, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Feb. 2026
  • The bill also includes confidentiality provisions that indicate information on serious reportable events relayed to DIAL by a professional licensing board, as well as any corrective action plans, are to be sealed from public view.
    Clark Kauffman, Iowa Capital Dispatch, 18 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The trial, at Innsbruck Regional Court, is expected to last just one day, with a possible verdict by Thursday evening, court officials told CNN.
    Sophie Tanno, CNN Money, 19 Feb. 2026
  • There were no immediate reports of major clashes following the verdict.
    Kim Tong-Hyung, Los Angeles Times, 19 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Angst over the city’s changing demographics has often erupted in Springfield’s city commission meetings, where citizens can speak their mind at an open podium.
    Caitlin Hu, CNN Money, 20 Feb. 2026
  • Keep in mind, though, that the pick number isn’t really set yet, either.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 20 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • The researchers warned there are many variables, so their work may not necessarily lead to a tidy conclusion.
    Julian Dossett, Space.com, 20 Feb. 2026
  • At the conclusion of the interview, Falchuk left Dane to address a camera alone, leaving his last words for family, friends, and fans.
    Greta Cross, USA Today, 20 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Plus, shifts in attitude toward police are not always about single acts but about the weight of national controversies placed on their shoulders, Cross pointed out.
    Denise Crosby, Chicago Tribune, 15 Feb. 2026
  • The contrast between the dark shoes and the light denim creates a figure-lengthening balance that’s ideal for those who love basics with a street style star’s attitude.
    Alex Sales, Glamour, 15 Feb. 2026
Noun
  • Final layoff determinations would not occur until May or June, after hearings and further review of attrition and revenues.
    Teresa Liu, Daily News, 18 Feb. 2026
  • The pitchers on which the Padres will likely base such a determination are Michael King, who pitched just 73⅓ innings in 15 starts last season due to a nerve impingement near his throwing shoulder and knee inflammation, and Joe Musgrove, who did not pitch in ‘25 after Tommy John surgery.
    Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Opinion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/opinion. Accessed 22 Feb. 2026.

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