public opinion

American  

noun

1. the collective opinion of many people on some issue, problem, etc., especially as a guide to action, decision, or the like.

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public opinion British  

noun

1. the attitude of the public, esp as a factor in determining the actions of government

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Etymology

Origin of public opinion

First recorded in 1560–70

Example Sentences

They can make major unilateral decisions — such as welcoming federal troops into California cities — and command a bully pulpit to drive public opinion and policy, including through statewide ballot measures.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 9, 2026

Getting crosswise with public opinion is sometimes enough to constrain a president.

From Slate • Apr. 8, 2026

Glen Ger, 60, was more optimistic, saying the KMT would "let everyone know that public opinion isn't completely one-sided, so they can understand that people want peace".

From Barron's • Apr. 5, 2026

But public opinion appears to be shifting in their favour.

From BBC • Mar. 25, 2026

The abolitionists were brilliant at using advertising and marketing to turn public opinion against slavery.

From "Sugar Changed the World: A Story of Magic, Spice, Slavery, Freedom, and Science" by Marc Aronson