Public opinion is the opinion or attitude of the public regarding a particular matter.
He mobilized public opinion all over the world against hydrogen-bomb tests. [+ against]
public opinion in British English
noun
the attitude of the public, esp as a factor in determining the actions of government
public opinion in American English
the opinion of the people generally, esp. as a force in determining social and political action
Examples of 'public opinion' in a sentence
public opinion
It is powerless unless public opinion and government uphold it.
Peter F. Drucker MANAGING IN TURBULENT TIMES (1980)
Government and public opinion support them.
Times, Sunday Times (2008)
It seems that these people will always abuse their power, no matter how much public opinion moves against them.
The Sun (2010)
To put armed police on the streets in spite of government and public opinion that we don't want them?
Times, Sunday Times (2009)
Government sources said that the broadside from the Church showed that its leading figures were out of touch with public opinion.
Times, Sunday Times (2013)
Yet since then, jittery public opinion has deterred governments from embracing the one form of generation that might hold the answer to our environmental dilemmas.
Times, Sunday Times (2011)
They were well aware of the pressure for restraint from shareholders, Government and public opinion.
Times, Sunday Times (2010)
The impact on Western governments and public opinion was enormous, strengthening their resolve.
Grenville, J. A. S. The Collins History of the World in the 20th Century (1994)
To get big things done in local government, profile, leadership and the power to mobilise public opinion matter hugely.
Times, Sunday Times (2010)
At the same time, the attack is certain to unite Pakistani public opinion behind the government and the military in their drive to crush the organisation.
Times, Sunday Times (2014)
In other languages
public opinion
British English: public opinion /ˈpʌblɪk əˈpɪnjən/ NOUN
Public opinion is the opinion or attitude of the public regarding a particular matter.
He mobilized public opinion against smoking in the workplace