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

See Examples For:

public opinion

Hideya Kawanishi, a professor at Nagoya University and expert in Japan's emperor system, told AFP that the new bill "fails to reflect public opinion".

From Barron's ● Jul. 17, 2026

Anything he sings can and might be used against him in the court of public opinion.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 14, 2026

Farage said he had been painted as a "thoroughly dishonourable and dishonest person", adding: "I'd much rather be judged in the court of public opinion."

From BBC ● Jul. 8, 2026

As public opinion of AI has shifted into the negative, warnings of mass employment reductions have diminished.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 6, 2026

President Buchanan, utterly failing to understand his country’s deep divisions, tried to subdue public opinion by labeling slavery’s expansion “a matter of but little practical importance.”

From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock