received opinion

USAGE SUMMARY

"received opinion" is a valid phrase that can be used in written English.
It is generally used to refer to a widely-accepted opinion or belief and is often used in contexts that analyze or criticize that opinion. For example, "The received opinion on the matter is that the law should be changed, but in reality the situation is more complicated than that."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Morgan is an opinionated man who relishes tweaking received opinion.

The New Yorker

A received opinion.

The Times

Writers and artists challenge received opinion.

The Guardian - Opinion

He added: "Bild doesn't always go along with received opinion.

The Guardian

Stop dreaming," she says, signalling the ferocious attack on received opinion that follows.

The New Yorker

In this, Spurling is up against a climate of cynical received opinion.

The New Yorker

The reviewer re-tells the public narrative, often recycling the received opinion from previous stories.

The New Yorker

Yet he leaves behind a terrific body of work that challenges received opinion.

The Guardian

They have recorded all this without pandering to received opinion, and without becoming lovable media stereotypes.

The Guardian - Arts

Almost every paradoxical line of this vivacious play challenges the audience to think against received opinion.

The New Yorker

When jokes are good, they illuminate, challenge received opinion, and make unacceptable ideas irresistible.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "received opinion" to introduce a commonly held belief that you intend to challenge or analyze critically. This sets up a contrast between the conventional view and your own perspective.

Common error

Avoid presenting "received opinion" as inherently flawed or incorrect without providing sufficient evidence or analysis. Acknowledge the reasons behind its widespread acceptance before offering counterarguments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "received opinion" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as the subject or object of a sentence. It introduces a concept or belief that is widely held and often serves as a point of departure for analysis or critique. Ludwig examples show it frequently used to set up contrasting arguments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

25%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "received opinion" is a commonly used noun phrase that identifies a widely held belief, often setting the stage for critical analysis or alternative viewpoints. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent use across various contexts, particularly in news, academic writing, and general discourse. The phrase serves to introduce a concept ripe for examination and potential challenge. It's important to use it judiciously, acknowledging the basis of the opinion before presenting counterarguments. Alternatives like "conventional wisdom" or "prevailing view" can provide similar nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

conventional wisdom

Focuses on the acceptance of a belief due to tradition rather than critical examination.

prevailing view

Emphasizes the dominance and widespread acceptance of a particular opinion.

established belief

Highlights the long-standing nature and general acceptance of a certain conviction.

common knowledge

Refers to information that is widely known and accepted as fact.

popular belief

Stresses the widespread acceptance of an idea among the general population.

accepted wisdom

Implies that a belief is regarded as true and reliable by many.

dominant narrative

Highlights the prevailing storyline or perspective that shapes understanding of an event or issue.

mainstream thought

Refers to the prevailing ideas and opinions held by the majority.

orthodoxy

Focuses on adherence to established or traditional beliefs, especially in religion or politics.

standard view

Emphasizes that something is considered the usual or typical perspective.

FAQs

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

You can use "received opinion" to introduce a widely held belief or idea, often one that you plan to challenge or analyze. For example, "The received opinion is that climate change is primarily caused by human activity.".

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

Alternatives include "conventional wisdom", "prevailing view", or "established belief", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always necessary to challenge the "received opinion"?

No, not always. You can also use "received opinion" to provide context or background information before building upon an established idea. However, the phrase often implies that the opinion will be scrutinized or questioned to some extent.

What is the difference between "received opinion" and "common knowledge"?

"Received opinion" refers more to a widespread belief or viewpoint, while "common knowledge" refers to facts that are widely known and accepted as true. "Received opinion" is often subject to debate or re-evaluation.