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

“We simply ask that the court of public opinion cease to make any assumptions about any person involved until more information is publicly available.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 2, 2026

But there is a way to shape public opinion on this issue: Warren and her allies in Congress could simply point Americans toward an iconic redhead with pigtails.

From Salon ● Sep. 25, 2026

The justices had public opinion on their side.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 17, 2026

It remains to be seen how industry safeguards would play out and if they would be enough to sway public opinion.

From MarketWatch ● Sep. 12, 2026

Meanwhile, efforts by protest leaders to influence public opinion were beginning to pay off.

From "Because They Marched" by Russell Freedman