COLLOCATIONS

verbs have/hold an opinion Everyone seemed to have a different opinion. He holds strong opinions on these issues. ask somebody (for) their opinion ( also ask for somebody’s opinion ) We asked people for their opinions about the Olympics. Nobody asked my opinion. It’s a good idea to ask people for their opinions and suggestions. give/express an opinion (= say what your opinion is ) He gave his opinion only when asked. voice/state an opinion written (= give your opinion, especially in a formal situation ) She has every right to voice her opinion. form an opinion (= gradually decide what your opinion is ) Olson had not yet formed an opinion as to Mark’s reliability.

adjectives the general opinion (= the opinion that most people have about something ) The general opinion seems to be that the government has made a mess of the war. popular/public opinion (= what ordinary people think about something ) How much do newspapers influence popular opinion? somebody’s personal opinion My personal opinion is that his first film was better. strong opinions People have strong opinions about this subject.

phrases have a difference of opinion (= two people disagree ) He and Luke had a difference of opinion. something is a matter of opinion (= used to say that you disagree, or that people disagree about something ) ‘He’s a very nice man.’ ‘That’s a matter of opinion, ’ thought Sam. contrary to popular opinion (= in spite of what most people think ) Contrary to popular opinion, many cats dislike milk. in my humble opinion (= used when giving your opinion, especially when you want to emphasize what you are about to say ) In my humble opinion, he is the greatest sportsman Britain has produced. keep your opinions to yourself (= not say what you really think ) As the youngest person there, I knew enough to keep my opinions to myself. opinion is divided as to/on/over something (= people have different opinions about it ) Opinion was divided as to whether the program will work. everyone is entitled to their opinion (= used especially when politely disagreeing with what someone says ) Of course everyone is entitled to their opinion, but I can't accept what he is saying.