What does opinionate mean?
Opinionate means having, expressing, or being based on strong and firmly held opinions. The word commonly carries a mildly negative or critical connotation: an opinionated person may appear confident and committed, but also dogmatic, inflexible, or unwilling to entertain alternative perspectives. It is often used of individuals, statements, articles, reviews, arguments, and political or religious positions. The phrase “highly opinionated” is especially common and emphasizes the strength of the convictions involved. Opinionate should not be confused with merely having an opinion; nearly everyone holds opinions, while an opinionated person or view is marked by forcefulness and apparent certainty. The adjective is useful when describing communication that persuades through asserted conviction rather than evidence or careful negotiation.
adjectiveHaving or expressing strong opinions, often in a way that suggests certainty and little willingness to consider alternative views.
- Having or expressing strong opinions and a tendency to dismiss alternative views.
- Characterized by a forceful, sometimes dogmatic, stance on a matter.
"Her opinionated response to the proposal made further discussion difficult."
"The committee rejected the opinionated report because it paid too little attention to opposing evidence."
"As a teenager, she was opinionated about music but remarkably tolerant in other matters."
Opinionate is the adjective for people who treat their convictions less like opinions and more like final verdicts.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does opinionate come from?
“Opinionate” was formed in the 17th century from the Latin-derived word “opinion” and the suffix “-ate,” originally meaning “having or expressing an opinion.” Its later sense developed toward the more critical modern meaning of being excessively assertive or dogmatic. The related words “opinion,” “opinional,” and “opine” belong to the same Latin root, from opineri, “to have an opinion.”
Related word forms
How opinionate is actually used
Usually mildly critical or disapproving, especially when a person is portrayed as unwilling to reconsider a position. It can also describe forceful advocacy without necessarily implying hostility.
Easily confused with opinionate
“Opinionate” describes someone who expresses strong views; “opinionated” describes something characterized by strong or dogmatic opinions.
“Opinionate” concerns strong beliefs or judgments, whereas “opulent” means rich, lavish, or abundant.