What does opine mean?
Opine is a formal verb meaning to express an opinion, particularly about a public, professional, or cultural issue. It usually takes the preposition “on” when the subject of the opinion is mentioned: “Experts opined on the report.” The word can suggest that a view is offered thoughtfully or with some authority, although in casual conversation it may sound unnecessarily grand for simply stating an opinion. It is most common in journalism, academic discussion, politics, and formal correspondence. A person who expresses an opinion is an “opiner,” and the present participle is “opining.” Although opine has no exact lexical opposite, refusing to express a view is often described as declining to opine. The word is related etymologically to “opinion,” “opinionate,” and “opination,” all of which reflect the broader idea of holding or expressing a belief.
verbTo express an opinion or view, especially on a matter of public, professional, or general interest.
- To express an opinion or view.
"Several historians have opined that the policy was well intentioned but misguided."
"The panel was invited to opine on the proposed changes."
"Although he declined to opine on the allegations, he did describe the broader dispute."
Opine comes from the same Latin root as opinion: both ultimately derive from the idea of holding or expressing a belief.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does opine come from?
Opine comes from the Latin verb opineri, meaning “to express an opinion.” It entered English through Middle French opiner and became established in English usage during the 16th century. Its Latin relatives include opinion, opinionate, and opinate, which developed from related forms of the same root.
Related word forms
How opine is actually used
Opine is formal in tone and is often used when a person or group is invited to comment publicly on a question. In some contexts it can sound slightly pompous or unnecessarily indirect, especially when used for an everyday opinion.
Easily confused with opine
Opine means to express a view, whereas pine means to yearn for something or to become progressively worse.