dissenting opinion

USAGE SUMMARY

"dissenting opinion" is a phrase in correct and usable in written English.
It is used when someone disagrees with the accepted opinion of a group or organization. For example, "The majority of the town council voted in favor of the proposal, but there was one dissenting opinion."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

1180, dissenting opinion.

Cornell University

APPENDIX to dissenting opinion by Justice Frankfurter.

Cornell University

Cf. the dissenting opinion of Lehman, Ch.

Cornell University

822, 853 (dissenting opinion of this writer).

Cornell University

For dissenting opinion by Mr. Justice Harlan, see 20 Sup.

Cornell University

BIRCH, J., files separate concurring and dissenting opinion.

Harvard University

But it isn't just the desire to silence dissenting opinion that should worry us.

Independent

Dissenting opinion in the commentating realm is good and welcome.

Los Angeles Times

Each wrote a dissenting opinion.

The New York Times

Thomas also wrote a separate dissenting opinion.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Souter also wrote a brief dissenting opinion.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dissenting opinion" when the discussion revolves around formal disagreements in legal or structured environments. Otherwise, consider using alternatives like "different perspective" for a more casual tone.

Common error

Avoid presenting a "dissenting opinion" as an established fact. While it represents a valid viewpoint, it's crucial to acknowledge that it contrasts with the majority or prevailing view.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dissenting opinion" functions as a noun phrase that typically identifies a formal, written statement of disagreement with a majority decision, particularly in legal or structured contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Academia

40%

News & Media

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dissenting opinion" is a grammatically sound noun phrase commonly employed to denote a formal expression of disagreement, particularly within legal, academic, and other structured environments. Ludwig AI validates its correctness, and examples show frequent use in sources such as academic journals and news reports. While "dissenting opinion" is the standard phrase, alternatives like "diverging opinion" or "conflicting opinion" can be considered depending on the desired nuance. Remember to present "dissenting opinions" respectfully and with supporting evidence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

dissenting view

A more concise way to express disagreement, suitable for less formal contexts.

diverging opinion

Emphasizes a difference in viewpoint, focusing on the act of moving apart from a central agreement.

conflicting opinion

Highlights the presence of opposing viewpoints that clash with each other.

differing opinion

Suggests a variation in viewpoint, focusing on the aspect of not being the same.

dissenting stance

Focuses on the expressed position of disagreement, rather than the formal written statement.

opposing opinion

Directly points out the contrasting nature of the viewpoint, highlighting its resistance to the mainstream.

countervailing opinion

Indicates an opinion that acts as a counterbalance, often implying an effort to offset another view.

contradicting opinion

Highlights that the opinion asserts the opposite of another stated view.

minority report

Describes a formal dissenting statement, often used in governmental or organizational contexts.

alternative judgment

Indicates a different assessment or conclusion, focusing on the judgmental aspect.

FAQs

How is a "dissenting opinion" used in legal contexts?

In legal settings, a "dissenting opinion" is a formal statement written by a judge or justice who disagrees with the majority decision of the court. It explains the reasons for their disagreement and can influence future legal arguments or decisions.

What's the difference between a "dissenting opinion" and a concurring opinion?

A "dissenting opinion" expresses disagreement with the majority ruling, while a concurring opinion agrees with the outcome but for different reasons. A judge writing a concurring opinion may emphasize different points or legal principles than the majority.

When is it appropriate to offer a "dissenting opinion"?

It's appropriate to offer a "dissenting opinion" when you have a well-reasoned and supported alternative viewpoint that differs from the prevailing one. Ensure your dissent is respectful, constructive, and based on credible information.

What are some alternatives to "dissenting opinion"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "diverging opinion", "conflicting opinion", or "differing viewpoint" to express disagreement or an alternative perspective.