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 In an unsigned opinion, the court reversed a decision that determined the jurors who convicted Pedro Hernandez of killing Etan Patz received improper instructions. Maureen Groppe, USA Today, 22 June 2026 All opinions expressed by the CNBC Pro contributors are solely their opinions and do not reflect the opinions of CNBC, or its parent company or affiliates, and may have been previously disseminated by them on television, radio, internet or another medium. Josh Brown,sean Russo, CNBC, 22 June 2026 According to our research, public opinion in Idaho is more nuanced than the right-left divide suggests. Lisa Meierotto, The Conversation, 22 June 2026 But events in students’ lifetimes also played a role in sharpening their opinions. Eliza Griswold, New Yorker, 22 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for opinion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for opinion
Noun
  • Contrary to popular belief, the central bank has little influence over home loan rates.
    Rachel Barber, USA Today, 21 June 2026
  • Most people who hold luxury beliefs are sincere.
    Rob Henderson, Washington Post, 21 June 2026
Noun
  • Harry has fought the decision in court to reinstate security, citing safety concerns for his wife and children, the outlet shared.
    Stephanie Nolasco, FOXNews.com, 24 June 2026
  • The latest decision marks another step toward advancing one of the country’s key uranium development projects.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 24 June 2026
Noun
  • But a recent poll shows that a majority abroad have a negative view of the country.
    Zac Anderson, USA Today, 25 June 2026
  • His view comes despite some opinion polls showing the Republican Party has a higher disapproval rating.
    Lim Hui Jie, CNBC, 25 June 2026
Noun
  • The call for impeachment comes just days after a judge delivered the verdict following a two-day bench trial for Precious Bland.
    Chelsea Jones, CBS News, 26 June 2026
  • The jury in that trial was unable to reach a verdict on the charge related to Mann and a mistrial was declared, as one juror refused to continue deliberating amid hostilities among their fellow jurors.
    Caitlin Huston, HollywoodReporter, 25 June 2026
Noun
  • Perhaps with that base-mobilization strategy in mind, the Republican National Committee is planning to hold a first-ever midterm convention this summer.
    Phillip M. Bailey, USA Today, 27 June 2026
  • Eucerin’s Clear Skin Sunscreen is formulated with oily, acne-prone skin in mind.
    Genevieve Cepeda, InStyle, 27 June 2026
Noun
  • Additional findings could change investigators' conclusions.
    Thao Nguyen, USA Today, 26 June 2026
  • The sequence in which Carmy tries to talk Richie down from a panic attack feels equally dynamic and alive right to its conclusion — when Carmy pretends they’ve gotten locked in, just as Carmy once was, to mess with Richie’s head.
    Jen Chaney, Vulture, 26 June 2026
Noun
  • During the preference sheet meeting, the major difference in Kayley and Genevieve’s attitudes is perfectly illustrated.
    Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 23 June 2026
  • Formalwear embraced a relaxed attitude, with most of the blazers coming collarless, or with mandarin collars and kimono-inspired, paired with looser-fit trousers nodding to pajamas.
    Luisa Zargani, Footwear News, 22 June 2026
Noun
  • Croatia returned from the hydration break with determination, forcing Panama to play its game for the first time so far.
    Monica Alba, NBC news, 24 June 2026
  • Sayers, however, appealed the OOR’s determination to the Centre County Court of Common Pleas.
    Jonah Walters, The Conversation, 24 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Opinion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/opinion. Accessed 28 Jun. 2026.

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