public opinion — the opinions or views held by the general public on a particular issue
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: the opinions or views held by the general public on a particular issue
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈpʌblɪk əˈpɪnjən/
Example Sentences
- The celebrity's scandal caused a dramatic shift in public opinion overnight.
- Politicians often hire expensive consultants to massage public opinion like a spa therapist.
- Social media has become a powerful tool for both measuring and manipulating public opinion.
public opinion
NOUN[/ˈpʌblɪk əˈpɪnjən/]
the opinions or views held by the general public on a particular issue
Public opinion shifts overnight as crowds gather in the town square debating the new law.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The term derives from Latin 'publicus' (public, of the people) and 'opinio' (opinion, judgment). It emerged as a distinct political concept in the 18th century with the development of democratic governance and the rise of the public sphere.
Breakdown
public (from Latin publicus, meaning of or belonging to the people) + opinion (from Latin opinio, meaning belief or judgment). The compound denotes collective views held by the general population on matters of public concern.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The celebrity's scandal caused a dramatic shift in public opinion overnight.”
“Politicians often hire expensive consultants to massage public opinion like a spa therapist.”
“Social media has become a powerful tool for both measuring and manipulating public opinion.”
“The mayor's approval rating dropped faster than a hot potato when public opinion turned against him.”
📚Related Words
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