legitimate opinion

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "legitimate opinion" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing viewpoints or beliefs that are considered valid or justifiable based on reasoning or evidence. Example: "While many may disagree, I believe that his perspective is a legitimate opinion that deserves consideration in the debate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"It curbs legitimate opinion," said Mr. Duggal.

The New York Times

Should a campaign expressing a legitimate opinion be ended because of the actions of a small minority?

The Guardian - Opinion

This is a legitimate opinion – although one from which millions would dissent – but to imagine it is neutral, objective or self-evidently correct is absurd.

The Guardian - Opinion

Alex Salmond's great achievement last year was to set the terms of debate in a way that, in the minds of many pro-independence voters, revoked the licence of unionist Scots and English politicians to hold a legitimate opinion about their country's future.

The Guardian - Opinion

What some call discussion and legitimate opinion, some call hatespeech and bigotry.

TechCrunch

This sends the message that only through one's own experience can you develop a legitimate opinion about women's equality.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Alan Johnson MP Home secretary  Yes, it's clearly wrong that Professor David Nutt has been sacked by Alan Johnson for expressing legitimate opinions on drugs policy (Chief drug adviser sacked over cannabis stance, 31 October).

The Guardian

Do we want to indoctrinate students of all ages into thinking that our country's history provides a clear and simplistic narrative, or do we want to pose difficult, challenging questions to students while giving them access to legitimate opinions and sources?

The New York Times

Another favorite at the event is Louisiana State Coach Les Miles, who has livened up previous gatherings with statements like "Those people that sign their name Slick Willie don't necessarily have legitimate opinions," regarding anonymous message board posters, and "We went through some of the situations we went through last fall.

The New York Times - Sports

My opinions are clearly the only legitimate opinions anyone should have and anyone that disagrees with me needs to have some sense beat into them.

TechCrunch

They want to become the legitimate counter-opinion on energy matters.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "legitimate opinion", be prepared to explain why you consider it legitimate. Back up your assessment with reasoning or evidence to avoid appearing dismissive of other views.

Common error

Avoid implying that a "legitimate opinion" is necessarily correct or agreeable. Legitimacy refers to the validity of holding the opinion, not its factual accuracy or your personal approval.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "legitimate opinion" functions as a noun phrase, where the adjective 'legitimate' modifies the noun 'opinion'. It denotes an opinion that is considered valid, acceptable, or justified. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "legitimate opinion" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that acknowledges a valid, acceptable, or justified viewpoint. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically correct. Predominantly found in news and media, as well as in science, this phrase serves to show respect for diverse perspectives in discussions. To ensure proper usage, remember that while it acknowledges validity, it does not imply agreement. Alternatives such as "valid viewpoint" or "justifiable perspective" offer similar ways to express this concept. Be careful to not use "very legitimate opinion".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Valid viewpoint

Focuses on the defensibility of the opinion.

Justifiable perspective

Emphasizes the reasons supporting the opinion.

Reasonable belief

Highlights the logic and rationality behind the opinion.

Defensible stance

Stresses the ability to defend the opinion against criticism.

Well-founded idea

Points to the solid basis or foundation of the opinion.

Authorized view

Suggests the opinion is supported by authority or expertise.

Permissible judgment

Implies the opinion is allowed or acceptable within certain boundaries.

Warranted assessment

Indicates the opinion is justified by the circumstances or evidence.

Acceptable position

Focuses on the acceptance or toleration of the opinion.

Recognized conviction

Highlights that the opinion is acknowledged or respected.

FAQs

How can I use "legitimate opinion" in a sentence?

You can use "legitimate opinion" to acknowledge a valid viewpoint, even if you disagree with it. For example, "While many disagree, that perspective is a "legitimate opinion" that deserves consideration."

What's a good alternative to "legitimate opinion"?

Alternatives include "valid viewpoint", "justifiable perspective", or "reasonable belief depending on the specific context".

Is it redundant to say "very legitimate opinion"?

While not strictly incorrect, "very legitimate opinion" can sound somewhat redundant. Consider using alternatives like "entirely legitimate opinion" or simply relying on ""legitimate opinion"" for a cleaner expression.

What distinguishes a "legitimate opinion" from a biased one?

A "legitimate opinion" is typically based on some degree of reason, evidence, or personal experience, even if it's subjective. A biased opinion, on the other hand, may be based on prejudice, incomplete information, or an unwillingness to consider alternative viewpoints.