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

In a phone interview, Paul Staniland, a political scientist at the University of Chicago, cautions against overestimating the effect of public opinion surveys on U.S. foreign policy.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 26, 2026

But the greatest threat they face, at least in terms of public opinion, is not outrage but indifference.

From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 21, 2026

Moore is among a number of people who have set up nonprofits and other groups to sway public opinion, and the big man’s opinion, in innovative ways.

From Slate ● Aug. 6, 2026

Chief Constable Jason Hogg told the BBC he was in discussion with the Police Federation of England and Wales over the matter, adding public opinion on their potential release was "overwhelming".

From BBC ● Aug. 5, 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