public opinion — what people think
collocationB1IELTS 5+neutralcommon
The general views or beliefs held by most people in a society about a particular issue or topic.
Say it like a native
Textbook The collective viewpoint of the citizenry has shifted.
Native Public opinion has shifted.
'The collective viewpoint of the citizenry' is grand; 'public opinion' is the standard term.
Pattern: public opinion (about/on something)
In use
- Public opinion about climate change has shifted a lot in recent years.society
- In my country, public opinion on recycling has become much more positive, especially among young people.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ The public opinions are divided.
✓ Public opinion is divided.
'Public opinion' is uncountable here — no 'the', no plural, singular verb.
Common collocations
public opinion— public opinion, shape public opinion, divided, a shift in public opinion
Don't confuse it
'Public opinion' is different from 'personal opinion,' which is just one person's view.