opinion, explanation, expression, columnist, criticism: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from Intermediate set 51. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. opinion · noun /əˈpɪnj(ə)n/

   a personal belief or judgment about something

   It is easy to hold an opinion, but it is never easy to find the best way to put it forward in a newspaper article.

   Synonyms: belief, viewpoint

   Origin: Middle English: via Old French from Latin opinio(n-), from the stem of opinari ‘think, believe’

2. explanation · noun /ˌɛkspləˈneɪʃən/

   the act of giving reasons to make something clear

   Late at night, the minister offered a reasonable explanation for the lack of information after the earthquake on TV.

   Synonyms: clarification, reason

   Origin: late Middle English: from Latin explanatio(n-), from the verb explanare (see explain)

3. expression · noun /ɪkˈsprɛʃən/

   communication of ideas in speech or writing

   The minister stated that expanding the scope of freedom of expression on both social and traditional media is one of the top priorities of the newly formed government.

   Synonyms: communication, statement

   Origin: late Middle English: from Latin expressio(n-), from exprimere ‘press out, express’. Compare with express

4. columnist · noun /ˈkɑləm(n)əst/

   a journalist who writes for a newspaper

   As a respected columnist and author of two best selling books, he was recognised by the national committee.

   Synonyms: journalist

5. criticism · noun /ˈkrɪdəˌsɪzəm/

   comments that point out faults or problems

   The company received strong criticism after raising its prices without improving the quality of its service.

   Synonyms: critique, disapproval

   Origin: early 17th century: from critic or Latin criticus+ -ism