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

A poll by the Levada Center shows that Russian public opinion on the war has shifted significantly.

From The Wall Street Journal

CBS News touted that point, which was based on a single public opinion poll.

From Los Angeles Times

Leaders who depend on social media to gauge public opinion are looking through a broken mirror.

From The Wall Street Journal

But while it’s clear that laws and public opinion did shift relatively quickly, “Without Consent” is not completely clear about which factors contributed most to this transformation.

From The Wall Street Journal

“MBS is not insensitive to public opinion,” said Ratney, the former U.S. ambassador, using the acronym by which the crown prince is often known.

From The Wall Street Journal