definition of opinion essay

Opinion Writing: a Guide to Writing a Successful Essay Easily

definition of opinion essay

An opinion essay requires students to write their thoughts regarding a subject matter. Relevant examples and explanations back their point of view. Before starting an opinion paper, it is important to study the definition, topics, requirements, and structure. Referring to examples is also highly useful. Perhaps you need help with our admission essay writing service ? Take a look at this guide from our dissertation writing service to learn how to write an opinion essay like an expert.

What Is an Opinion Essay

A common question among students is: ‘What is an Opinion Essay?' It is an assignment that contains questions that allow students to share their point-of-view on a subject matter. Students should express their thoughts precisely while providing opinions on the issue related to the field within reasonable logic. Some opinion essays type require references to back the writer's claims.

Opinion writing involves using a student's personal point-of-view, which is segregated into a point. It is backed by examples and explanations. The paper addresses the audience directly by stating ‘Dear Readers' or the equivalent. The introduction involves a reference to a speech, book, or play. This is normally followed by a rhetorical question like ‘is the pope Catholic?' or something along those lines.

What Kind of Student Faces an Opinion Essay

Non-native English-speaking students enrolled in the International English Language Testing System by the British Council & Cambridge Assessment English are tasked with learning how to write the opinion essays. This can be high-school or college students. It is designed to enhance the level of English among students. It enables them to express their thoughts and opinions while writing good opinion essay in English.

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What Are the Requirements of an Opinion Essay?

What Are the Requirements of an Opinion Essay

Avoid Going Off-Topic: Always write an opinion essay within relevance to answer the assigned question. This is also known as ‘beating around the bush' and should not be included in any opinion paragraph as it may lower your grade.

Indent the First Paragraph: With most academic papers, opinion writing is not different. Therefore, it contains the rule of indenting the first line of the introduction.

A Well-Thought Thesis: The full thesis statement is a brief description of the opinion essay. It determines the rest of the paper. Include all the information that you wish to include in the body paragraphs

The Use of Formal Languages: Although it is okay to write informally, keep a wide range of professional and formal words. This includes: ‘Furthermore,' ‘As Stated By,' ‘However', & ‘Thus'.

Avoid Internet Slang: In the opinion paper, avoid writing using slang words. Don'tDon't include words like ‘LOL', ‘OMG', ‘LMAO', etc.

The Use of First Person Language (Optional): For the reason of providing personal thought, it is acceptable to write your personal opinion essay in the first person.

Avoid Informal Punctuation: Although the requirements allow custom essay for the first-person language, they do not permit informal punctuation. This includes dashes, exclamation marks, and emojis.

Avoid Including Contradictions: Always make sure all spelling and grammar is correct.

We also recommend reading about types of sentences with examples .

Opinion Essay Topics

Before learning about the structure, choosing from a wide range of opinion essay topics is important. Picking an essay theme is something that can be done very simply. Choosing an excellent opinion essay topic that you are interested in or have a passion for is advisable. Otherwise, you may find the writing process boring. This also ensures that your paper will be both effective and well-written.

  • Do sports differ from ordinary board games?
  • Is using animals in circus performances immoral?
  • Why should we be honest with our peers?
  • Should all humans be entitled to a 4-day workweek?
  • Should all humans become vegetarians?
  • Does a CEO earn too much?
  • Should teens be barred from having sleepovers?
  • Should everyone vote for their leader?
  • The Pros & Cons of Day-Light Saving Hours.
  • What are the most energy-efficient and safest cars of X year?

Opinion Essay Structure

When it comes to opinion paragraphs, students may struggle with the opinion essay format. The standard five-paragraph-essay structure usually works well for opinion essays. Figuring out what one is supposed to include in each section may be difficult for beginners. This is why following the opinion essay structure is something all beginners should do, for their own revision before writing the entire essay.

You might also be interested in getting more information about: 5 PARAGRAPH ESSAY

Opinion Essay Structure

Opinion essay introduction

  • Address the audience directly, and state the subject matter.
  • Reference a speech, poem, book, or play.
  • Include the author's name and date of publication in brackets.
  • 1 or 2 sentences to make up a short description.
  • 1 or 2 summarizing sentences of the entire paper.
  • 1 sentence that links to the first body paragraph.

Body Paragraph 1

  • Supporting arguments
  • Explanation
  • A linking sentence to the second body paragraph.

Body Paragraph 2

  • Supporting argument
  • A linking sentence to the third body paragraph.

Body Paragraph 3

  • A linking sentence to the conclusion.

Conclusion paragraph

  • Summary of the entire paper
  • A conclusive sentence (the bigger picture in conclusion)

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Opinion Essay Examples

Do you need something for reference? Reading opinion essay examples can expand your knowledge of this style of writing, as you get to see exactly how this form of an essay is written. Take a look at our samples to get an insight into this form of academic writing.

Over the past, American popular culture has been strong in creating racial stereotypes. Images displayed through television, music, and the internet have an impact on how individuals behave and what individuals believe. People find their identities and belief systems from popular culture. Evidently, I believe that American pop culture has created racial stereotypes that predominantly affect other ethnic minorities. Analyzing the history of America reveals that African Americans have always had a problem defining themselves as Americans ever since the era of slavery. AfricanAmericans have always had a hard time being integrated into American culture. The result is that African Americans have been subjected to ridicule and shame. American pop culture has compounded the problem by enhancing the negative stereotypes ofAfrican American. In theatre, film, and music, African Americans have been associated with vices such as murder, theft, and violence.
The family systems theory has a significant revelation on family relations. I firmly agree that to understand a particular family or a member, they should be around other family members. The emotional connection among different family members may create functional or dysfunctional coexistence, which is not easy to identify when an individual is further from the other members. Taking an example of the extended family, the relationship between the mother-in-law and her daughter-in-law may be tense, but once they are outside the family, they can pretend to have a good relationship. Therefore, I agree with the theory that the existing emotional attachment and developed culture in the family is distinctively understood when the family is together.

Opinion writing is a form of academic paper that asks students to include their thoughts on a particular topic. This is then backed by a logical explanation and examples. Becoming more knowledgeable is a practical way to successfully learn how to write an opinion paper. Before writing anything, it is essential to refer to important information. That includes the definition, topics, opinion writing examples, and requirements. This is what turns amateur writers into master writers.

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How to Write an Opinion Essay (With Tips and Examples)

Are you struggling with how to write an opinion essay that effectively communicates your viewpoint on a particular topic while providing strong evidence to back it up? Fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of crafting a quality opinion essay, from understanding the purpose and structure to choosing engaging topics and employing effective writing techniques. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Opinion essays are formal pieces of writing that express the author’s viewpoint on a given subject.
  • Crafting an effective thesis statement and outline, choosing engaging topics, using formal language and tone, addressing counterarguments and maintaining logical flow are essential for creating compelling opinion essays.
  • The revision process is key to producing polished opinion essays that effectively convey one’s opinions.

What is an Opinion Essay?

An opinion essay, also known as an opinion paper, is a formal piece of writing wherein the author expresses their viewpoint on a given subject and provides factual and anecdotal evidence to substantiate their opinion. The purpose of an opinion essay is to articulate a position in a clear and informative manner, following a proper opinion essay structure. Opinion essays are commonly found in newspapers and social media, allowing individuals to articulate their perspectives and opinions on a specific topic, striving to create a perfect opinion essay.

While the focus of an opinion essay should be on the writer’s own opinion concerning the issue, it necessitates more meticulous planning and effort than simply articulating one’s own thoughts on a particular topic. The arguments in an opinion essay should be grounded on well-researched data, making it crucial to consult pertinent information, including the definition, topics, opinion writing examples, and requirements, to write an opinion essay and transform novice writers into proficient writers.

Crafting the Perfect Thesis Statement

A strong thesis statement is the foundation of a great essay. It clearly expresses the writer’s opinion and sets the stage for the rest of the essay. To craft the perfect thesis statement, start by perusing the essay prompt multiple times to ensure you fully understand the question or topic you are being asked to discuss. Once you have a clear understanding of the topic, construct your opinion and conduct thorough research to locate evidence to corroborate your stance and examine counterarguments or contrasting perspectives.

Remember, your thesis statement should provide a succinct overview of the opinion essay and serve as a guide for the remainder of the paper. By crafting a strong thesis statement, you will be able to capture your reader’s attention and set the tone for a well-structured and persuasive essay.

Building a Solid Opinion Essay Outline

A well-structured opinion essay format is crucial for organizing your thoughts and ensuring that your entire essay flows smoothly from one point to the next. An opinion essay outline typically comprises an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion, following the standard five-paragraph essay structure.

Let’s delve deeper into each component of the outline. The introduction should provide a brief overview of the topic and your opinion on it. It should be.

Introduction

The introduction of your opinion essay should hook the reader and provide an overview of the essay’s content. To achieve this, consider addressing the reader directly, introducing a quotation, posing thought-provoking or rhetorical questions, or referring to a remarkable or unconventional fact, concept, or scenario.

It is essential to introduce the topic clearly in the introduction to avoid superfluous phrases and inapplicable facts that are not pertinent to the topic. By crafting an engaging introduction, you will set the stage for a compelling and well-organized opinion essay.

Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs of your good opinion essay should provide arguments and supporting examples to substantiate your opinion. Begin each paragraph with a distinct topic sentence and use credible sources to provide substantiation for your viewpoint with dependable data.

Addressing counterarguments in your body paragraphs can also enhance your essay by illustrating a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and fortifying your stance.

Organize your body paragraphs in a coherent manner, ensuring that each argument and supporting example flows logically from one to the next. This will make it easier for your reader to follow your train of thought and strengthen the overall impact of your essay.

The conclusion of your opinion essay should summarize the main points and restate your opinion in a new manner, providing a sense of closure and completion to your argument. Keep your conclusion concise and avoid introducing new information or arguments at this stage. By effectively summarizing your main points and restating your opinion, you will leave a lasting impression on your reader and demonstrate the strength of your argument.

In addition to summarizing your main ideas, consider providing a final thought or call to action that will leave your reader pondering the implications of your essay. This can further reinforce the impact of your conclusion and leave a lasting impression on your reader.

Choosing Engaging Opinion Essay Topics

Selecting engaging topics for opinion essays is crucial for capturing the reader’s interest and encouraging critical thinking. While there are an abundance of potential questions or topics that could be utilized for an opinion essay, it is important to choose topics that are relevant, interesting, and thought-provoking.

To find inspiration for engaging opinion essay topics, consider browsing the Op-Ed sections of newspapers, exploring social media debates, or even reflecting on your own experiences and interests. Keep in mind that a well-chosen topic not only draws the reader’s attention, but also stimulates critical thinking and fosters insightful discussions.

Opinion Essay Writing Techniques

Effective opinion essay writing techniques include using formal language and tone, addressing counterarguments, and maintaining logical flow.

Let’s explore each of these techniques in more detail.

Formal Language and Tone

Using formal language and tone in your opinion essay is essential for conveying a sense of professionalism and credibility. This can be achieved by avoiding slang, jargon, and colloquial expressions, as well as short forms and over-generalizations. Moreover, expressing your opinion without utilizing the personal pronoun “I” can give your essay a seemingly more objective approach.

Remember that the recommended tense for composing an opinion essay is present tense. By maintaining a formal language and tone throughout your essay, you will demonstrate your expertise on the subject matter and instill confidence in your reader.

Addressing Counterarguments

Addressing counterarguments in your opinion essay is an effective way to demonstrate a well-rounded understanding of the topic and strengthen your position. To do this, introduce opposing viewpoints in a straightforward manner and provide evidence to counter them. This not only showcases your comprehension of the subject matter, but also bolsters your own argument by refuting potential objections.

By acknowledging and addressing counterarguments, you will create a more balanced and persuasive opinion essay that encourages critical thinking and engages your reader.

Maintaining Logical Flow

Ensuring your opinion essay maintains a logical flow is critical for enabling your reader to follow your arguments and evidence with ease. To achieve this, utilize precise and succinct words, compose legible sentences, and construct well-structured paragraphs. Incorporating transitional words and varied sentence structures can also enhance the flow of your essay.

By maintaining a logical flow throughout your opinion essay, you will create an organized and coherent piece of writing that effectively communicates your viewpoint and supporting arguments to your reader.

Analyzing Opinion Essay Examples

Analyzing opinion essay examples can help improve your understanding of the structure and style required for this type of writing. Numerous examples are available online as a source of reference, providing valuable insights into how other writers have approached similar topics and structured their essays.

By examining opinion essay examples, you will be better equipped to identify the elements of a successful essay and apply them to your own writing. This will not only enhance your understanding of opinion essay writing, but also inspire you to develop your own unique voice and style.

The Revision Process: Polishing Your Opinion Essay

The revision process is essential for polishing your opinion essay, ensuring clarity, logical flow, and proper grammar and punctuation. Start by rereading your first draft, making improvements as you progress and rectifying any grammar errors that may be observed. Having another individual review your writing, such as a family member or friend, can provide candid feedback, allowing you to refine your essay further.

The ultimate step in composing an opinion essay is proofreading. This final review will ensure that your essay is polished and free from errors, resulting in a well-crafted and persuasive piece of writing that effectively communicates your opinion on the topic at hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you start an opinion essay.

To start an opinion essay, begin by stating the subject of your essay and expressing your perspective on it. Follow up by using an interesting or provocative statement to capture the reader’s attention.

Introduce your essay by restating the question in your own words, making sure to make your opinion clear throughout your essay.

What is the structure of an opinion essay?

An opinion essay is typically structured with an introduction containing a thesis statement, body paragraphs providing arguments or reasons that support your view, and a conclusion.

Each section of the essay should be written in a formal tone to ensure clarity and effectiveness.

What is the format of an opinion paragraph?

An opinion paragraph typically begins with a clear statement of the opinion, followed by body sentences providing evidence and support for the opinion, before finally summarizing or restating the opinion in a concluding sentence.

It should be written in a formal tone.

What not to write in an opinion essay?

When writing an opinion essay, make sure to stay on topic, avoid slang and jargon, introduce the topic clearly and concisely, and do not include unnecessary facts that do not relate directly to the question.

Use a formal tone and keep your conclusion clear in the first sentence.

What is the purpose of an opinion essay?

The purpose of an opinion essay is to articulate a position in a clear and informative manner, providing evidence to support it.

This type of essay requires the writer to research the topic thoroughly and present their opinion in a logical and convincing way. They must also be able to back up their opinion with facts and evidence.

In conclusion, crafting a quality opinion essay requires a clear understanding of the purpose and structure of this type of writing, as well as the ability to choose engaging topics and employ effective writing techniques. By following the guidelines and tips provided in this guide, you will be well on your way to creating a compelling and persuasive opinion essay that effectively articulates your viewpoint and supporting arguments.

Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you write and revise, the more adept you will become at crafting insightful and impactful opinion essays. So, go forth and share your opinions with the world, backed by strong evidence and persuasive writing!

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Ultimate guide to writing an opinion essay: 50 inspiring examples and topics, carla johnson.

  • June 14, 2023
  • Essay Topics and Ideas , How to Guides

An opinion essay is often given to students at all levels of schooling. In this type of essay, the writer has to say what they think about a certain topic or issue and back up their point with evidence and examples. Students should learn how to write opinion essays because they teach them how to think critically and how to explain and defend a point of view. Opinion essays are an important part of academic writing, but they are also a great way to learn persuasive communication skills that you can use in your personal and professional life. This article will tell you everything you need to know about how to write an opinion essay. It will also give you 50 examples and ideas to help you get started. We will talk about the basic structure of an opinion essay and how to make a strong argument and back it up with facts and examples.

This guide will give you the tools you need to learn how to write a good opinion essay, whether you are a student looking to improve your academic writing or a professional looking to improve your persuasive communication skills .

What You'll Learn

Understanding Opinion Essays

Opinion essays are a type of academic writing in which the writer has to say what they think about a certain topic or issue. In an opinion essay, the writer should back up their point of view with evidence and examples and try to get the reader to agree with them. The point of opinion essays is to teach students how to think critically and talk in a way that makes others want to agree with them. If students want to do well in school, on the job, and in their personal lives, they need to have these skills. Opinion essays are different from descriptive or narrative essays because the writer has to take a clear stance on a certain topic and back up their claim with evidence and examples. It’s also important to have a clear thesis statement that explains the writer’s point of view.

Elements of an Opinion Essay

An opinion essay typically includes the following elements:

1. Introduction paragraph : The introduction should grab the reader’s attention and provide background information on the topic. It should also include a clear thesis statement that outlines the writer’s position.

2. Body paragraphs: The body of the essay should provide supporting evidence and examples to support the writer’s argument. Each paragraph should focus on a single point and should begin with a topic sentence that relates back to the thesis statement .

3. Supporting evidence and examples: It is important to use evidence and examples to support the writer’s argument. This can include statistics, facts, quotes, and personal experiences.

4. Counter arguments: It’s also important to address counter arguments or opposing viewpoints in an opinion essay. This shows the reader that the writer has considered alternative perspectives and has still arrived at their own position. Addressing counter arguments can also strengthen the writer’s position by showing that they have thought critically about the issue .

5. Conclusion paragraph: The conclusion should summarize the main points of the essay and restate the thesis statement . It should also leave the reader with a final thought or call to action.

Opinion essays are an important genre of academic writing that require critical thinking and persuasive communication skills. To write an effective opinion essay, it is important to have a clear thesis statement , use supporting evidence and examples, address counter arguments, and provide a strong conclusion. By mastering the elements of an opinion essay, students can develop their writing skills and become more effective communicators.

Writing Process of an Opinion Essay

Writing an opinion essay requires careful planning and organization. Here are the steps to follow when writing an opinion essay:

1. Pre-writing strategies: Before you start writing, it’s important to brainstorm ideas and gather information on your topic . This can include researching your topic , making a list of arguments and counterarguments, and creating a mind map or outline.

2. Outlining an opinion essay : Once you have gathered your ideas, create an outline to organize your thoughts and develop a clear structure for your essay . Your outline should include an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

3. Writing the introduction: The introduction should grab the reader’s attention and provide some background information on the topic. It should end with a thesis statement that clearly states your position on the issue.

4. Developing body paragraphs: The body of the essay should provide supporting evidence and examples to support your argument. Each paragraph should focus on a single point and should begin with a topic sentence that relates back to the thesis statement.

5. Using evidence and examples to support your argument: Use evidence and examples to support your argument. This can include statistics, facts, quotes, and personal experiences.

6. Addressing counter arguments: It’s important to address counterarguments or opposing viewpoints in an opinion essay. This shows the reader that you have considered alternative perspectives and have still arrived at your own position. Addressing counter arguments can also strengthen your position by showing that you have thought critically about theissue.

7. Writing the conclusion: The conclusion should summarize the main points of your essay and restate your thesis statement . It should also leave the reader with a final thought or call to action.

Tips and Techniques for Writing a Strong Opinion Essay

To write a strong opinion essay, follow these tips and techniques:

1. Writing with clarity and precision: Use clear and concise language to express your ideas. Avoid using too many complex words or phrases that may confuse the reader.

2. Crafting an effective thesis statement: Your thesis statement should be clear and concise, and it should clearly state your position on the issue.

3. Using transitional words and phrases: Use transitional words and phrases to connect your ideas and make your essay flow smoothly. Examples include “however,” “on the other hand,” and “in addition.”

4. Avoiding logical fallacies: Logical fallacies are errors in reasoning that can weaken your argument. Examples include ad hominem attacks, straw man arguments, and false causality.

5. Editing and proofreading: After you have written your essay, take the time to edit and proofread it carefully. Look for spelling and grammar errors, and make sure that your ideas are presented clearly and logically.

Writing an opinion essay requires careful planning, organization, and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined above and using the tips and techniques provided, you can craft a strong and persuasive opinion essay that effectively communicates your position on the issue at hand.

10 Inspiring Opinion Essay Examples

To help you understand what makes a strong opinion essay, here are 10 examples of well-written opinion essays, along with a detailed analysis of what makes each essay effective:

1. “The Benefits of a Vegetarian Diet” by Jane Smith

2. The Importance of Early Childhood Education” by John Doe

3. The Negative Effects of Social Media on Teenagers” by Sarah Johnson

4. The Pros and Cons of Online Learning” by Tom Brown

5. “The Need for Stricter Gun Control Laws” by Emily Davis

6. “The Ethics of Animal Testing” by Rachel Lee

7. The Benefits of Exercise for Mental Health” by David Nguyen

8. “The Importance of Diversity in the Workplace” by Maria Hernandez

9. The Harmful Effects of Plastic Pollution on the Environment” by Alex Lee

10. The Need for Universal Healthcare in the United States” by Samantha Jones

Each of these essays effectively communicates the writer’s position on a particular issue and provides strong supporting evidence and examples. By analyzing these essays , you can learn important lessons about how to effectively structure and develop an opinion essay.

50 Opinion Essay Topics That Will Impress Your Professors

To help you choose a topic for your opinion essay, here are 50 unique and engaging opinion essay topics that are relevant and important:

1. The impact of social media on interpersonal communication

2. The benefits and drawbacks of homeschooling

3. The role of technology in modern education

4. The need for stricter penalties for hate crimes

5. The impact of climate change on the global economy

6. The ethics of genetically modified foods

7. The impact of automation on jobs and the workforce

8. The effects of video games on children’s behavior

9. The need for better mental health support in schools

10. The benefits and drawbacks of remote work

11. The impact of social media on mental health

12. The need for stronger anti-bullying policies in schools

13. The effects of the gig economy on workers’ rights

14. The benefits and drawbacks of artificial intelligence

15. The impact of fast fashion on the environment

16. The ethics of animal agriculture

17. The need for more affordable housing in urban areas

18. The impact of immigration on local communities

19. The effects of screen time on children’s development

20. The need for stronger gun control laws

21. The impact of social media on political discourse

22. The benefits and drawbacks of renewable energy sources

23. The need for stronger anti-discrimination laws

24. The effects of legalization of marijuana on society

25. The impact of automation on the environment

26. The ethics of human cloning

27. The need for more accessible healthcare in rural areas

28. The effects of income inequality on society

29. The benefits and drawbacks of online dating

30. The impact of virtual reality on society

31. The need for stronger data privacy laws

32. The ethics of artificial intelligence in decision-making

33. The effects of social media on democracy

34. The impact of globalization on local economies

35. The benefits and drawbacks of autonomous vehicles

36. The need for stronger measures to combat cyberbullying

37. The effects of air pollution on public health

38. The ethics of euthanasia and assisted suicide

39. The impact of the sharing economy on traditional industries

40. The need for better access to mental health care for veterans

41. The benefits and drawbacks of cryptocurrency

42. The impact of space exploration on society

43. The ethics of gene editing

44. The need for stronger measures to combat human trafficking

45. The effects of social media on body image and self-esteem

46. The impact of automation on the future of work

47. The benefits and drawbacks of a cashless society

48. The need for stronger measures to combat domestic violence

49. The effects of social media on relationships

50. The impact of artificial intelligence on education

Choose a topic for your opinion essay that is important to you and about which you have strong feelings. Use the ideas and tips in this article to come up with a strong argument and back it up with proof and examples . With these tools, you can write a great opinion essay that will impress your professors and get your point across clearly.

1. What is the difference between an opinion essay and a persuasive essay?

An opinion essay and a persuasive essay are similar in that they both require the writer to express their viewpoint on a particular topic or issue. However, a persuasive essay is more focused on convincing the reader to take a particular action or adopt a particular viewpoint, while an opinion essay is more focused on expressing the writer’s personal perspective on the issue.

2. Can I include personal anecdotes in my opinion essay?

Yes, personal anecdotes can be a powerful tool for supporting your argument and making your essay more engaging. However, it’s important to ensure that your anecdotes are relevant to the topic and that they support your overall argument .

3. How do I address counterarguments in my essay?

To address counterarguments in your essay, consider presenting them in a separate paragraph or section of your essay . Then, explain why you disagree with the counterargument and provide evidence and examples to support your position.

4. How do I choose a topic for my opinion essay?

Choose a topic that you are passionate about and that you have a strong opinion on. Consider current events , social issues, or topics related to your field of study.

5. What is the recommended length for an opinion essay?

The length of an opinion essay can vary depending on the assignment requirements. However, a typical opinion essay is usually around 500-800 words.

6. What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing an opinion essay?

When writing an opinion essay, some common mistakes to avoid are not having a clear thesis statement, using weak or irrelevant evidence to back up your argument, not addressing counterarguments, and not proofreading your essay for mistakes. It’s important to take the time to carefully plan and edit your essay to make sure it clearly shows your point of view and gives strong evidence and examples to back up your argument.

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Opinion Essay

Last updated on: Jun 9, 2023

How to Write an Opinion Essay - Structure, Topics & Examples

By: Cordon J.

Reviewed By: Rylee W.

Published on: Nov 2, 2021

Opinion essay

The opinion essay is a type of persuasive writing that reflects the writer's point of view. It shows what the writer thinks or how they feel about a specific subject.

Moreover, such an essay requires good writing skills as well as an understanding of its format. Continue reading to know more about how to write a good opinion essay in no time. Also, find below the examples and topics for better guidance.

Opinion essay

On this Page

What is an Opinion Essay?

An opinion essay is a formal piece of writing in which the writer expresses their viewpoints on a specific issue. It is done to persuade or convince readers.

To do this successfully, you need to present your opinions and reasoning with logical examples for both sides of the argument. The opposing viewpoint is also presented.

Similarly, an opinion essay is also known as agree or disagree essay. Writing an opinion essay is similar to writing a persuasive essay. It requires you to explain why your viewpoint is right, but it's more like the conclusion of a research paper. Here, the writer defends rather than trying to convince someone else about what they should think or do about the topic.

Consider the following points while writing a good opinion paper.

  • Always support your opinion by using a strong piece of evidence from credible sources.
  • Write all sentences in a proper sequence.
  • Avoid using copied content from the internet and state your own opinion.
  • Write formally and avoid using slang words.
  • Ensure that the essay is free from any grammatical and spelling mistakes.

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Opinion Essay Structure

Writing any type of essay requires proper format and structure. The same is the case with an opinion essay that follows a standard five-paragraph structure.

Let us have a look at the detailed opinion essay format structure given below.

Introduction

  • Grab the audience’s interest with a hook statement
  • Present your opinion
  • Introduce the main topic
  • State the thesis statement

Body Paragraph 1

  • Write a topic sentence with the first reason
  • Supporting evidence
  • Facts/ Examples

Body Paragraph 2

  • Write a topic sentence with the second reason

Body Paragraph 3

  • Write a topic sentence with the third reason
  • Summarize your opinion
  • Restate the thesis statement

How to Write an Opinion Essay?

Writing an opinion essay requires proper planning and preparation. Here are some important steps that you should follow to write a perfect essay in no time.

1. Prewriting Stage

Before you start writing your opinion essay, collect evidence to support your viewpoint. Make sure that the information collected is relevant in order for it to be considered a good argument.

After you start brainstorming, consider answering these questions to get more ideas.

  • What are the central arguments being conveyed in the essay?
  • What did the audiences want to know?
  • Is my opinion relevant to the main theme?
  • How can I improve my opinion?

Look at this list for ideas and organize their answers in a detailed opinion essay outline.

2. Begin Writing the Essay

There are three major sections included in an opinion essay. These comprise an introduction paragraph, main body, and a conclusion. The following is a detailed description of these sections.

  • Introduction -  It is the first section that discusses the subject and states your opinion about it. Always start this paragraph with an attention-grabbing hook statement and present the thesis statement at the end.
  • Body Paragraphs -  These paragraphs contain all the relevant information to support the main thesis. Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence and use present tense while writing this essay. Never use phrasal verbs and idioms and add in-text citations properly. Lastly, make sure to use transitions for a logical flow of ideas. The opposing side who disagrees with the statement should also be represented in your writing.
  • Conclusion -  This section is as important as the introduction. It should not only be restating the thesis statement but also present the central arguments. However, you should avoid introducing any new ideas.

3. Proofreading and Editing

The final step to your essay is proofreading. Make sure that the grammar, vocabulary, and spellings are all correct before submitting the final draft. Check for plagiarism, as this will also help protect you from being accused of cheating.

Don't forget about the essay’s structure. Make sure there is a clear introduction followed by well-developed body paragraphs and a conclusion.

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Opinion Essay Examples

Examples are a great way to get a detailed idea of writing any type of essay. Below we have attached some samples for you to get a comprehensive understanding of the writing process.

OPINION ESSAY SAMPLE

OPINION ESSAY ABOUT COVID 19

OPINION ESSAY ABOUT FAST FOOD

Opinion Essay Topics

Here is a list of topics for an opinion essay that you can select for writing your own paper.

  • Is social media damaging to our personal relationships?
  • Does traveling benefit young people?
  • Are high school dress codes biased against female students?
  • Should primary schools still teach handwriting?
  • Should public transportation be free for city residents?
  • Should college and university be free?
  • Should doping be allowed in competitive sports?
  • Are professional sports players’ salaries too high?
  • Should physical education be mandatory in high school?
  • Should hormonal birth control be sold over the counter?

The comprehensive guide mentioned above will help you write a perfect opinion essay in no time. However, if you still need help with the writing process, contact a professional  essay writing service  like  5StarEssays.com .

Tired of the tedious research and writing that goes into every paper you write?

Our expert essay writers have what it takes to make your work stand out from everyone else's. With years of experience, they know how to get things done in no time at all!

Just tell them exactly what you need help with - whether that be a simple high school essay or an advanced dissertation, we'll take care of everything for you. Call us now and place your  order  to get an impressive opinion essay at affordable rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an opinion essay called.

An opinion essay is also known as an argumentative, persuasive, or position essay.

What is the purpose of an opinion essay?

An opinion essay aims to explain something from a subjective position of a writer. It is also used to convince someone of anything by proving the stance.

What are the features of opinion writing?

Some of the main features of opinion writing include:

  • Concrete details
  • Language and content-specific words
  • Relationships between and among ideas
  • Linking reasons and evidence to the opinion

How do you introduce an opinion in writing?

An opinion is mainly introduced by stating the topic and providing reasons that are supported by facts and details drawn from credible sources.

What is a supported opinion essay?

Supported opinion essays are a great way to show your opinion on the subject and back it up with sound evidence. The goal of this essay isn't just convincing readers that you're right but also letting them see how well-researched all aspects were for their own learning.

Can you use I in an opinion essay?

It's not true that there is such a rule as, never use (I) in an opinion essay . It depends on the circumstances, but these kinds of expressions should be used when you think it will help your writing and thematics to get across to the readers.

Cordon J.

College Admission Essay, Law

Cordon. is a published author and writing specialist. He has worked in the publishing industry for many years, providing writing services and digital content. His own writing career began with a focus on literature and linguistics, which he continues to pursue. Cordon is an engaging and professional individual, always looking to help others achieve their goals.

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An opinion essay

An opinion essay

Learn how to write an opinion essay.

Do the preparation task first. Then read the text and tips and do the exercises.

Preparation

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Information will soon be so easy to find on the internet that people will not need to remember anything. Do you agree?

Nowadays all the information we could ever need is available online and some people say that means the end of having to learn anything.

It is true that these days everything you want to know is a few clicks away as long as you have internet access. However, not everyone has working internet all the time, for example in certain buildings or remote locations, so we do need to be able to remember information. Moreover, it takes time to look up everything you need to know online, whereas remembering something is immediate. The human memory is a much more efficient system.

Another problem is the quality of the information online. How do we know if it is accurate or reliable? We need to think about other facts we know and remember how to compare information from different websites. Knowing (and remembering) how to find certain information will be more important than knowing the information itself.

Finally, the internet is a good tool but it is not a useful replacement for our brains. If we did not remember anything, we would all spend even more time on our phones and computers than we already do, which is not good for society.

In conclusion, the internet offers us many things but it is still important to use our knowledge and memories. We need our memories to function without the internet and we also need to know how to use the internet properly.

  • Read the question carefully. Respond to all ideas in it or all parts of it.
  • Plan your ideas first and then choose the best ones.
  • Introduce your essay by restating the question in your own words.
  • Show understanding of both sides of the argument.
  • Use linking words to connect your ideas.
  • Draw your conclusion from the main ideas in your essay. Don't introduce new ideas at the end.

What do you think about the question? Would it be better or worse if we never learned anything and just used the internet instead?

Language level

It would be worse. If we only look for information on the internet, for everythingg and every time when we have a question about something we will become ''rusty robots''.

In other words, our minds, without exercising the creativity and memory of our brains, will be almost completly out of purpose. What's more, we will be lazy and with a slow capacity of thinking properly.

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It is evidently known that in recent days, the exchange of information is progressive over the network of various channels which we call it as Internet. Experts have made some definite predictions about the availability of data and information on the above mode of communication in near future. This particular development is totally agreeable. With respect to the technological advancements pertaining to the above, the human life shall be prepared to be compatible with the communication platforms on the network of servers. The key strengths will mainly focus on speed of communication, less errors and information accuracy. This aspect of technological development will eventually replace the traditional modes of information storage. This requires no effort in preservation of information on physical devices as all the core information will be stored in virtual servers. On the other hand, the above paradigm shift in terms of data centralization will certainly replace human brains. This attempt will not trigger any living beings to memorize information physically. It is quite obvious that our brains are limited and restricted with space constraints. Hence, this technology of information storage will drastically replace these drawbacks. Overall, this phenomenal trend of networking has provided a seamless mode of gathering, interpreting and storing information. At the same time, the consequences will be tremendous and noticeable as it will lead to an era where in people across the globe can surf and search their expected piece of data with-in no time. Practically, they don’t have to bother about any challenges related to failure of storage elements. Finally, this pattern of information storage is promisingly going to be accepted.

I think the use of the internet is not only in conflict with learning, but It has made the speed of learning faster and more comfortable.

On the one hand, With the advent of the internet and access to data whenever we want, we were able to free our minds from memorizing a lot of unnecessary data. It caused that instead of spending our time to remember the formulas and data, we use our time for a deeper understanding of the concepts. Concentration on understanding was a big step in order to make us more clear about how to apply scientific concepts practically, and It made the evolutionary process of turning scientific concepts into experimental tests go faster. Going through this evolutionary process quickly, in turn, caused, firstly, the faster growth of modern technologies and, secondly, the creation of many new data, concepts, and sciences. And now the data volume is so much that not only you can never remember or learn them, but you have to choose the best one that works for you. Somehow, the internet has changed how to learn. It has focused on analyzing the options and choosing the best one to learn Instead of memorizing a bunch of content.

On the other hand, Theoretically speaking, One of the laws In the world is that everything can be useful or harmful in turn. This law also applies to the internet. In fact, how to use the internet determines whether it is useful or harmful. Like many other tools that have been invented such as smartphones, smartwatches, electric cars, and so on we have spent time learning how to use them. In order to get the best out of the internet and don't waste our time, we must take the time to learn how to search. The searching skill is the most important one that helps us find better results.

In conclusion, Given the two analyzed reasons above, I agree with the idea that easy access to Information makes people get rid of memorizing lots of data. But this has nothing to do with the quality or quantity of learning.

I think it depends on the type of information. Some information are easier to remember, and hence it's more efficient to have them in memory instead of looking for them online. However, some complex information is offered online, and it will be impractical if we tried to remember it. Additionally, I believe that learning is not just about acquiring knowledge. It's about learning how to think with this knowledge available and solve problems efficiently. That's why the internet is considered a valuable tool to promote learning, not to replace it.

Nowadays we are witnesses how far technology has developed in a short time. A huge of information is backing up on internet and if you have access of surfing you can find any information that you are looking for. However, there are some relevant aspects that should be taking into account when we are talking about using always internet instead of learning. In this sense, the purpose of this essay will be to explain why it is not a good idea. Firstly, as you know, most of the information on internet is fake. For that reason, it is impossible the learning process can be replaced by internet use. If you are looking for reliable information you have to learn how it works. In other words you need of learning even if you want to use internet all the time because you have to discern what of all information is useful for you purpose. For example, if you are a student and want to write an essay about a specific topic you likely have to search for the best information if you want to get a job position or scholarship. Secondly, there is a high demand for professionals who have specific skills in the field that they are pretending to be involved. That’s why learning always is a must for satisfying the requirements of companies and institutions. For instance, in the education field, the main aim is the learning and knowledge which are essential on a daily life to be an expert in your field of action and these skills can’t be acquired through internet surfing. To sum up learning and knowledge are fundamentals in a current world that is demanding professionals highly qualified even in our daily live and the internet is far away of satisfying the required skills that you get every day through the practice, research and networking.

I think it become worse and dangerous for our society, we need to control it making rules. Without internet, many skills and knowledge could´nt be used.

I believe that, The internet become even more dangerous for young people who barely discovered the world around them, If they count on it for seeking information without parental supervision, it would be a disaster!

In nowadays,there are many ways to reach information.The Internet is just one of them but maybe most promising one.The Internet helps us to find information easily and efficently.

However there are some negative sides of Internet.For instance realibilty of information.There are no real control on Internet.I reckon there will not be soon.This reduces the trust in internet.This is why People will always need another source to be make sure and need to remember information.

It is also necesseray for objectivity. You can not just have one source and expect true and impartial information. It is against nature of science.This is not how science works.People must have and process the information.In this way we expand our knowledge.When we make brainstorm we always end up with another information. If we don’t have and process the information how Science works?

I suppose in the future People will never trust completely to Internet. They will always need another source and they will need to interrogate source of information.In conclusion Internet is by far most promising invention People have ever invented.However Internet is not beyond our brain and imagination.We will always need to posses and process the information.

It is about my hometown: My hometown is a beautiful, attractive and cool. N'beika is one of the most famous places in Mauritania where attractive views and economic capacities are in. It is located in Tagant which is in middle of the map. Therefore, It is one the biggest cities in the country. As there are interesting geographical features such as: high Mountains, nice valleys, light hills and wonderful pools. Historically, N'beika played an important role in culture, trade exchange and fighting colonialist. Also it has saved historical landmarks, for example: manuscripts, books and cities which the most important is Gasr Albarka. In the north, there have tourist views and in the East big mountains with lovely valleys like Matmata where there are some Alligators in and other attractive animals. As well as from the south and the west there are some fields, forests and farms. Moreover, people are interested in agriculture, trade, development and education. Furthermore, there are many schools and Mahidras and three colleges providing well-deserved education to students. What's more, mall shops is offering demands and created jobs for unemployment. There are different favourite for people , some of them are crazy about football as youth, and some people like doing agriculture and development. Moreover, there are entrepreneurs doing a small business like selling clothes, pitch, barbershop... etc. In conclusion, N'beika is a gift of Allah that has given to people to spend nice moments in order to feel happy and to invest for everything we want due to gain lots of money .

I believe it is amazing updated technology which has helped us a lot in our lives. In todays era everyone has access to internet over the globe. you can easily find all the information on internet that is required to you. Even though learn many new skills which aren't even taught you from the help of internet. it is good help for book writer like us where we can be part of book writing communities or book writing resources to enhance our skills and provides more guidance to others.

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Opinion Writing: Everything You Need To Know (+ 8 Examples)

Everybody has opinions and the perfect medium to convey them is through opinion writing.

Learning how to convey your opinions to others by writing is an excellent way of voicing your ideas and suggestions and becoming more confident as a person and an articulate writer.

What is the purpose of opinion writing?

Opinion writing is a powerful type of writing that helps you convey your opinion to the audience in the most effective and compelling manner.

It has a specific format:

Thesis statement

  • Introduction

It also consists of structural elements such as

Let’s delve further into opinion writing, its types, and how to write an opinion piece in this guide.

What is opinion writing?

As its name implies, opinion writing is a type of writing in which the writer gives their opinion on a topic or subject matter.

The writer shares their perspective or stance on that topic and offers reasons and supporting arguments to support that opinion.

What must be included in opinion writing?

Here are some features that every piece of opinion writing should have.

  • Supporting reasons and evidence
  • Well-researched and well-presented arguments
  • A definite, well-organized structure
  • Quotes or experiences by credible authorities on the subject that lend credence to the writer’s opinion
  • Relevant and authentic facts and statistics
  • A reasonable conclusion summing up the main idea and reiterating the writer’s viewpoint

Importance of Opinion Writing: Why is opinion writing important for students?

Opinion writing is an essential kind of writing for a multitude of reasons. As a student, a writer, or a blogger, it helps you share your views and opinions on various subjects with your audience.

It also enables you to develop and further enhance your writing skills, and you learn how to effectively communicate your ideas and perspectives with the aid of authentic evidence. Moreover, it helps build confidence.

For readers, opinion pieces are a great source of knowledge, facts, and other opinions that may or may not be different from their own.

Knowing other opinions on various subjects is essential and allows one to broaden their perspective.

What are some types of opinion writing?

Opinion pieces can mainly be divided into columns, editorials, and op-eds. We’ll explore each type in detail below.

Writers who write columns are often referred to as columnists and write opinion pieces on various current events, political events, social issues, and other topics.

Columns are usually published in newspapers, magazines, and other literary publications.

Like columns, editorials are also published in newspapers and magazines and convey a specific opinion or stance on a particular subject matter.

Editorials are written by an editorial board member of a newspaper or magazine.

Op-eds are opinion pieces commonly featured in magazines and newspapers and written by guest contributors.

“Op-ed” is short for “opposite the editorial page,” where these pieces are mostly found.

What is the structure of opinion writing?

Every opinion piece should be well-structured, with different paragraphs dedicated to other parts of the arguments.

Typically, an opinion piece has the following structural elements: thesis sentence, introduction, body, and conclusion.

The body is the part where the bulk of the writer’s opinions, arguments, supporting evidence, and statistics go.

In the body part, ideas should be formulated using this order:

  • Examples/Evidence
  • In the next section, we’ll explore these structural elements in more detail.

Opinion writing format

While there is no strict format, every writer has to adhere to when penning opinion pieces, certain structural elements (that we’ve mentioned previously) must be present in every opinion piece.

Here are some of them:

The thesis statement gives the reader a quick overview of what the opinion piece is about and what the writer’s stance is.

Introduction Of Your Opinion

The introduction is an integral part of an opinion piece in which the writer gives some background about the topic and paves the way for their upcoming arguments.

The opening may also contain the writer’s name, publication details, etc.

Next comes the body. The body is where the bulk of the writer’s arguments, supporting reasons, facts, and statistics go.

It can contain multiple supporting arguments, examples, and references from credible sources. The body usually contains numerous paragraphs.

Opinion Conclusion

In the conclusion, the writer effectively wraps up their argument and reiterates their stance on the subject matter.

The conclusion is basically a summary of the whole opinion piece.

Besides the essential structural elements and necessary parts (supporting arguments, evidence, examples, etc.), there are other vital components that every opinion piece must have.

These include:

  • A bold, clear statement of the writer’s opinion or stance on the subject matter
  • Formal language and a polite and informative tone
  • Relevant and appropriate evidence
  • Varying sentence length and convincing word choice to inform the audience and keep them engaged

How do you start opinion writing?

The beginning of an opinion piece is important and must set the stage for the upcoming arguments.

The opinion piece should begin with a clear statement of the subject matter and hint at the writer’s stance on it.

In addition, your introduction should provide a smooth transition to the main body of the opinion piece.

Opinion writing topics: What is an example in opinion writing?

Here is a list of 8 excellent topics for writing opinion pieces.

  • Should organizations adopt a 4-day work week?
  • Should standardized testing be abolished?
  • Is homeschooling better than traditional schooling?
  • Are video games turning children violent?
  • What are some of the best electric cars you can buy?
  • Should every child receive awards for participating in school events instead of only those who win?
  • Is online education as effective as in-person education?
  • Is it wrong to put animals in cages?

Final thoughts

Opinion writing is a crucial type of writing and is something everybody should try their hand at. It helps you voice your opinions and empowers you to address an audience and speak your mind.

Since it is specialized writing, it has its own format, structural elements, and other essential components.

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Opinion Essay and How to Make It Accurate

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An opinion essay is a type of essay that presents the writer's personal viewpoint on a particular issue. It is a form of persuasive writing that aims to convince the reader of the validity of the writer's opinion. Students should clearly state their standpoint and provide supporting evidence to persuade the reader.

An opinion essay as well as a diagnostic essay is something every student will eventually meet. And let’s not question that statement. It is our opinion, and it shall be proved in this guide. But here is where it can get tricky. How can one write such a type of work? You’re always expected to get excellent results, but information about academic writing is rather limited. Or perhaps it’s not limited, but it is written in a highly complicated way. So continue on this journey with our service delivering college essay help , and you will definitely nail the writing of any article, especially the opinion one.

What Is an Opinion Essay?

What does it even mean to write an opinion essay ? Well, it is a very good question, so thank you for asking. This article is a formal piece of writing that presents your point of view on a specific question or subject. More importantly, you have to use the academic devices required for this type of writing. This article usually uses evidence to prove your point or an argument. You can also use examples or any piece of information that would prove that your opinion is actually correct and worthy of remembering. In other words, here you have to prove your point, and that’s all. Before writing this kind of task, browse topics for an opinion essay  and choose the best one for yourself.

Opinion Essay Structure

Writing an opinion essay also involves a very specific structure. Although it may not be dramatically different from other articles, we still want to go step-by-step through creating such a piece of writing together. Keep in mind that we need a clear structure to effectively prove our point. That is why you also would require an outline and planning of all of your paragraphs. Trust us; it will help you a lot in the future, save time and deliver better results. Also, don’t forget that we provide stellar writing assistance for students who ask ‘ write my college essay for me .’

Opinion Essay: Introduction

How to start an opinion essay? Well, you should definitely start strong. The first paragraph of any article is usually an introduction. It includes something eye-catching or the so-called hook. There you can also include a thesis statement which is usually your last sentence of this paragraph. For example, you want to prove that Marvel comics are better than DC ones. Many people might not share your opinion. So you have to prove it.  Your introduction might start with statistics, for example. So answer the question of how many people actually write comics of these brands. In the middle of the paragraph, you can slowly lead into your thesis. In this case, our thesis will state that marvel comics are usually more beloved for light tones, their cinematic universe, and character development.

Opinion Essay: Argument/Reason

An opinion essay obviously involves an argument you’re trying to prove. But try to come up with not one but two or more likely three different arguments that will defend your initial thesis statement. You should also keep in mind that each argument or reason needs its own evidence. He can use statistics, academic sources, or anything relevant to your subject. For example, we are still researching marvel comics and rivals. Our three main arguments state that their comics are more fun, popular because of the cinematic universe and character development. Therefore, we need to provide evidence for each of our reasons like an argumentative essay writer would do. Here we can definitely use comments from fans, statistics from the cinemas, and several comic book arcs of our favorite characters.

Opinion Essay: Supporting Evidence

Writing an opinion essay requires looking for bulletproof evidence, as we said before. But what do we mean by saying evidence?  For example, there are many examples of good evidence that you can use. Usually, researchers try to reach an essay conclusion by quoting an academic paper. Those things are peer-reviewed and contain truthful data. You can also use graphics and statistical data if they fit your research question. Basically, anything that can be trusted will do. However, try not to quote such websites as Wikipedia or non-governmental pages. Your readers will not believe or support your argument if they can tell whether data is trustworthy.

Opinion Essay: Conclusion

How to write a conclusion paragraph for an opinion essay? That was a journey, but it is our last question. Surprisingly enough, this article is not that challenging to understand. Nevertheless, the conclusion is a final opportunity to wrap up all of your points and remind the readers of the main argument of your paper.

For example: as our thesis stated that Marvel comics are the best, we should definitely rewrite this statement for the first sentence of our conclusion. This is the best way to highlight your argument. You can definitely include your own opinion. Also, don’t forget to leave some peace of mind hinting at future research or possible opportunities.

How to Write an Opinion Essay: Tips

We have just covered how to write an opinion essay. But of course, we couldn’t leave you without different tricks and tips for students. So here they are:

  • Start with the strongest argument first (it’s like throwing the first punch in the fight. You have to show all of your cards at once).
  • Never use a question for an essay title (it is a general rule of writing in public cystic that question and title must be answered with “yes”).
  • Try using the active voice (it is simply more convincing this way).
  • Don’t overcomplicate things (You’re still writing for readers who must understand you).
  • Don’t repeat yourself (with a lot of repetitions, our text might seem slightly dull).

Opinion Essay Examples

We also are here to give you the best possible opinion essay example. We know how hard it is to sometimes understand the theory. So you should definitely use our provided sample to refer to a guide and check what is actually meant. Besides, you can print it out and save it somewhere for inspiration. Go ahead and check the sample down below!

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Final Thoughts on Writing Opinion Essay

Congratulations, because now you know everything there is about the opinion essay. We hope that all of the information that we have compiled will help you in your future academic life. Also, don’t hesitate to practice at writing essays . Making mistakes is more than all right, and only by practicing can you succeed.

If you're interested in honing your persuasive writing skills beyond opinion essays, our blog post on how to write an editorial is a must-read.

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What is an Opinion Essay? Explore its Structure, Key Differences & Exciting Topics

definition of opinion essay

What is an opinion essay?

An opinion essay is a type of essay in which students have to express their opinions on a topic. Their point of view is supported by relevant examples and justifications. An opinion essay helps you to present and argue your point of view logically. Therefore, you should be clear in expressing your viewpoint.

The opinion essay's basic purpose is to:

  • Support some ideas.
  • Share your thoughts on a particular subject.
  • Describe anything from the perspective of a writer.
  • Describe the causes and relationships of something from the writer's viewpoint.

However, gather sufficient evidence and justifications to support your viewpoint on a given issue. The data you gather is consistent with the arguments you express in the essay. By learning how to write an opinion essay , students can effectively communicate their thoughts about a specific topic, supported by relevant examples and logics. 

How does an opinion essay differ from an argumentative essay?

Opinion essays are just one type of essay you might have to write. Different types of essays have different purposes. Let’s discuss their differences. 

Opinion Essay 

It is an essay that supports an opinion with evidence. The main goal of writing an opinion essay is to express the writer's personal point of view. You use logical reasoning and evidence to support your viewpoint. 

In an opinion essay, you start with an introduction that tells your main idea. Then, in the middle part, you explain your ideas and give evidence to support them. Finally, you finish with a conclusion where you repeat your main idea and sum up what you said.

Argumentative Essay

In an argumentative essay, you state a fact. Then, support it with more evidence. The purpose of this essay is to support the argument. These essays heavily rely on factual evidence and logical reasoning. The writing tone is formal in this essay. Understanding how to write an argumentative essay involves thoroughly addressing and refuting opposing arguments to strengthen the writer’s position. 

Opinion Essay Structure

An opinion essay followed the same format as all other essays, including the critical analysis essay . Your essay is useless if the right structure or format is not used. Consider the essay structure or opinion essay template listed below to help you write a strong opinion essay. 

Introduction

  • Start with the hook statement
  • Respond to the question
  • Share your point of view
  • Give two arguments in support

Paragraph 1 in Body

  • Topic sentence – Outline the first argument in favour of your opinion
  • Explanation – Discuss this concept
  • Example – Give a specific instance or elaborate on the concept

Paragraph 2 in Body

  • Topic sentence – Outline the second argument in favour of your opinion
  • Explanation – Discuss this idea in a clear way
  • Example – Provide an illustration or elaborate on the concept
  • Summarize your point of view and key reasons
  • Restate the thesis statement in the conclusion
  • Leave a lasting impression on the reader

Opinion Essay Topics

There are a plethora of problems or concerns that would make great essay topics. Any issue or subject that keeps you thinking deeply can be the subject of an interesting opinion essay. Your teacher will provide you with a list of topic ideas, or you can think of one on your own. Here is a list of some popular topics for opinion essays:

  • The Impact of Social Media on Society: Is It More Harmful or Beneficial?
  • Should School Uniforms Be Mandatory or Optional?
  • Is Online Learning More Effective Than Traditional Classroom Learning?
  • Is Technology Making Us More Connected or More Isolated?
  • Do CEOs make too much money?

Best Tips for Writing Opinion Essay

The following essay writing tips can help you craft an immaculate opinion essay:

  • Every sentence should start with a topic phrase that sums up the main ideas.
  • Avoid using slang or jargon.
  • Introduce your topic clearly. Moreover, avoid using irrelevant information that does not directly relate to your topic.
  • Use present tense to write an opinion essay.
  • Make sure to maintain a logical sequence between sentences.
  • Your reader must understand what you're writing about.
  • Maintain a formal tone and writing style.

By incorporating these tips, you can improve the clarity and persuasiveness of your opinion, ultimately resulting in a great college essay .

Final Thoughts

An opinion essay assignment requires students to express their thoughts on a specific issue by providing logical justification and examples to support it. Improving your knowledge is a practical strategy to have good opinions. Referring to relevant facts before writing anything is also important. This covers the requirements, definition, themes, and examples of opinion writing essays. This is what transforms novice writers into expert writers.

If you need some help with your personal opinion essay or any kind of paper, contact Nerdpapers . No matter what kind of essay writer you need, an opinion writer or a persuasive essay writer, we have a team of experts. 

Table of Contents

Persuasive essay topics – how to choose one for you, how to write a persuasive essay- expert tips.

definition of opinion essay

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How To Write An Opinion Essay? Definition, Tips, And Examples. 

  • August 6, 2022 August 31, 2022

definition of opinion essay

Writing an opinion essay doesn’t have to be a daunting task. In fact, it can be quite enjoyable. An opinion essay is relatively easy to write, as you simply state your opinion on a topic and provide reasons and examples to support it.

People love sharing their opinions, even if they are not asked for them! This natural tendency makes writing an opinion essay a breeze. However, there are still a few things you should keep in mind to make sure your essay is successful.

Opinion essay definition and its components

definition of opinion essay

An opinion essay is a type of formal writing in which the author states and supports their opinion on a topic . The main goal of an opinion essay is to share your opinion with a reader. You should write in your own words and use supporting arguments and examples to back up your opinion.

You can achieve this by providing your opinion in a clear, logical way.

Opinion paper and persuasive essay difference

The main difference is that an opinion essay requires the author to share his personal opinion on a topic , whereas a persuasive paper seeks to convince the reader to adopt the same opinion .

Both types of essays are similar in that they both require you to state and support your opinion. However, a persuasive paper will go one step further and also try to persuade the reader to adopt your opinion.

In order to do this, you will need to use even stronger evidence and more convincing language.

Choosing an opinion essay topic

The secret of choosing a good opinion essay topic is quite simple:

You need to find a topic that you are passionate about and one that you have strong feelings about during the pre-writing phase.

The best way to find such a topic is to brainstorm with someone else – a friend or family member, for example. Such topics are usually related to politics, religion, morality, ethics, or controversial social issues .

Once you have come up with a list of potential topics, take some time to think about which one you would most like to write about. Try to narrow down your list to a single, specific topic.

How to support your arguments with evidence

It is essential to support your opinion with evidence when writing an opinion essay. This could be in the form of statistics, expert opinions, or real-life examples.

The evidence you use should be credible and relevant , and it should be used to back up your argument in a logical way. Remember to reference any sources you use so that the reader can check them for themselves.

If you don’t know where to find evidence to support your argument, try doing a quick internet search or looking through newspapers and academic journals.

Another great way to find evidence is to ask people you know for their opinions on the topic . This could be friends, family, or even people you meet in the street.

Opinion essay outline

definition of opinion essay

The opinion essay structure is similar to the structure of any other college essay. It consists of three major components. Here is an opinion paper outline you can use to write a great essay:

The introduction , in which you state your opinion and provide an overview of the reasons and examples you will use to support it.

The main body , in which you develop your argument and provide evidence to support it.

The conclusion , in which you restate your opinion and sum up the main points of your argument.

Now let’s take a closer look at each of these components.

The introduction 

The opinion essay introduction is where you state your opinion and provide an overview of the reasons and examples you will use to support it . It is essential to make sure that your introduction is clear and concise and that it sets the tone for the rest of your essay.

Your introduction should begin with a “hook” that will grab the reader’s attention and make them want to read more. This could be a question, a statistic, or a famous quote. Check out our essay hook examples to see how you can do this.

After the hook, you should provide a brief overview of the main points of your argument . This will give your reader an idea of what to expect from the rest of your essay.

Finally, you should end your opinion essay introduction with a “thesis statement” that states your opinion on the topic. This should be a clear, concise sentence that states your opinion in a confident way.

Main body 

This is where you develop your argument and provide evidence to support it. Each paragraph should focus on a single point , and you should provide evidence for each point you make. It is recommended to use 2-3 body paragraphs in your essay.

The first body paragraph should focus on your strongest point , while subsequent paragraphs can focus on weaker points.

A good way to structure your body paragraphs is to use the “point, example, explanation” method. First, you state your point with a topic sentence. Second, you provide an example that supports your point. Finally, you explain how this example supports your argument.

It is essential to make sure that your points are relevant to your thesis statement and that they are presented logically. Provide enough evidence to support each point.

If you don’t know what else to say, try adding more examples or expanding on the ones you have already used. Link your points back to the introduction so that your essay flows smoothly.

The conclusion 

The conclusion paragraph is the right place to restate your opinion and sum up the main points of your argument . Make your opinion essay conclusion clear and concise.

Your concluding paragraph should begin with a “summary statement” that sums up the main points of your argument. You should repeat arguments in your opinion essay conclusion. This will remind the reader of your opinion and the reasons you have provided to support it.

After the summary statement, you should restate your opinion in a different way . This will help to reinforce your argument and leave the reader with a lasting impression.

Finally, you should end your concluding paragraph with a “call to action” that encourages the reader to do something or learn more about the topic and suggest consequences if the problem is not addressed properly.

How many pages should an opinion essay be?

An average opinion essay is usually between 1-3 pages but can be longer if necessary. The length of your opinion essay will depend on the complexity of your argument and the number of examples you provide.

If you are writing a longer opinion essay, you can include more than three body paragraphs. However, it is important to make sure that each paragraph has a and that paragraphs are written in a logical sequence.

Common mistakes students make when writing opinion essays

definition of opinion essay

Opinion writing is a common task that students are asked to do in school or college. However, there are some widespread mistakes that students make when writing opinion essays. 

Not reading the prompt carefully

Make sure you understand what the opinion essay prompt is asking before you start writing your essay.

Not having a clear opinion

Your opinion should be stated clearly in your thesis statement. If you are unsure of your opinion, your essay will lack direction and focus. Avoid writing in a “wishy-washy” way. For example, instead of saying, “I think nuclear energy is both good and bad,” try to take a more definitive stance such as “I believe that nuclear energy is a necessary evil.”

Not providing enough evidence

Make sure you provide enough evidence to support each point you make in your essay. Without evidence, your argument will not be convincing.

Using slang and colloquial expressions

Avoid using slang or colloquial expressions in your essay. Use formal language throughout your essay. Try to write in a formal style.

Using formal punctuation

Punctuation is important in opinion writing. Make sure you use correct punctuation throughout your essay. Do not use exclamation marks or contractions (short forms).

Including irrelevant information

Your opinion essay should include only relevant information to your topic. Including irrelevant information will only make your essay weaker.

Failing to edit and proofread

Make sure you edit and proofread your opinion essay before you submit it. Failing to do so may result in a lower grade.

Examples of opinion essay topics

Opinion essays can be written on a variety of topics. Here are some examples of topics you could write an opinion essay about:

1. Should the use of animals for scientific research be banned?

2. Technology has made our lives easier or more difficult?

3. Has globalization had more positive or negative effects on the society?

4. The rise of the sharing economy (such as Airbnb, Uber, etc.) is good or bad for society?

5. Is it better to grow up in a small town or a big city?

6. Should the government do more to protect the environment?

7. Are zoos cruel or necessary?

8. Should schools start later in the morning?

9. Are exams a good way to measure students’ knowledge?

10. Is cheating always wrong?

Opinion essay examples

definition of opinion essay

Let’s have a closer look at opinion essay examples.

Personal opinion essay example for schools

“Is it morally wrong to eat meat?” Many people believe that it is morally wrong to eat meat because they think that taking the life of an animal for the purpose of consuming its flesh is cruel and barbaric. However, I do not agree with this perspective. I believe that eating meat is not only morally acceptable but also healthy and nutritious. The primary reason why people believe that it is wrong to eat meat is because they think that it is cruel and barbaric to take the life of an animal for the purpose of consuming its flesh. However, this perspective is biased as animals are naturally designed to be eaten. For example, cows are grass-eating animals, and chickens are meant to eat insects and other small creatures. In fact, when chickens are allowed to roam free in a yard, they will peck at the ground and eat bugs. This is what they are supposed to do. In addition, most people who argue against eating meat do not consider the fact that raising livestock for consumption is actually much more humane than allowing them to live in the wild. Cows and pigs that are raised for meat are typically given plenty of food and water, and they are allowed to roam around in open pastures. In contrast, wild cows and pigs have to compete for food and water, and they are often subjected to harsh weather conditions. Furthermore, many people who argue against eating meat claim that consuming animal flesh leads to health problems. However, this claim is not based on scientific evidence. In fact, numerous studies have shown that consuming meat is actually healthy and nutritious. Meat provides our bodies with essential nutrients like protein, iron, and zinc, which are necessary for maintaining good health. In conclusion, I believe that it is morally acceptable to eat meat. I think that those who argue against eating meat do not have a strong case based on facts and logic. Meat provides our bodies with essential nutrients like protein, iron, and zinc, which are necessary for maintaining good health. In addition, raising livestock for meat is actually much more humane than allowing them to live in the wild. Therefore, I believe that eating meat is both morally acceptable and healthy.

As you can see, this personal opinion paper follows a simple opinion essay format. Introduction, three body paragraphs, and a concluding paragraph. The introduction provides the main idea and introduces the essay’s topic.

Each body paragraph provides supporting the author’s opinion. Furthermore, the author uses transition words , such as “Furthermore,” “In Addition,” and “In Conclusion.”

This opinion essay also presents an opposing viewpoint to the author’s opinion. However, the author refutes this viewpoint with logic and facts.

If you are writing a personal opinion paper, you can use personal examples and first-person pronouns , as you can see in the example above. However, if you are writing an opinion paper for academic purposes, you will need to avoid using them.

Less formal writing is acceptable in schools . However, college students should try to find a balance between academic writing style and expression of their personal opinion. Make your opinion essay look like a research paper, supported by facts and evidence from scholarly sources.

Opinion essay example for colleges

“Are humans responsible for global warming?” It is a commonly accepted idea that humans are the cause of global warming. The Earth has been going through natural cycles of cooling and warming for centuries, but with the industrial revolution and the increase in greenhouse gases from human activity, it has begun to warm rapidly. Scientific findings have shown that the Earth is going through its fastest warming period in recorded history, which can have a devastating effect on the planet. There is overwhelming evidence that human activity is the main driver of global warming. The scientific evidence indicates that CO2 concentration has increased by 40% since pre-industrial times, and it is now at its highest level in 650,000 years ( Sacks et al., 2014 ). The majority of this increase is from farming and burning fossil fuels such as coal and oil. When fossil fuels are burned, various greenhouse gases like CO2 and methane are released into the atmosphere. They are trapping the sun’s heat, causing the Earth’s temperature to rise. Scientists have determined that the Earth is going through a rapid and large warming trend, and they attribute this almost entirely to human activity. A study by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which is made up of hundreds of the world’s top climate scientists, found that it is “extremely likely” that human activity is the main cause of global warming ( Smith et al., 2009 ). The study also found that natural factors like the sun and volcanoes have had a small cooling effect on the Earth’s temperature over the past century. There is also evidence that the Earth is going through its warmest period in millennia. Scientists have found that the Earth has been gradually warming since the Little Ice Age, which ended around 1850 ( Zhang et al., 2006 ). However, the rate of warming has accelerated in the past few decades, and it is now happening at an unprecedented rate. So, if humans are causing global warming, what can mankind do about it? The most important thing that can be done is to reduce our emissions of greenhouse gases. One of the possible solutions is to switch to green energy such as solar and wind power and by using more efficient technologies. Emissions can also be reduced by planting trees, which take in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen back into it. While there is still some debate over whether humans are causing global warming, the evidence is overwhelming that human beings are the major reason. Global warming is a real and serious problem needed to be addressed to prevent the devastating consequences to Earth. References: Sacks, A. D., Teague, R., Provenza, F., Itzkan, S., & Laurie, J. (2014). Restoring atmospheric carbon dioxide to pre-industrial levels: Re-establishing the evolutionary grassland-grazer relationship.  Geotherapy , 155-194. Smith, J. B., Schneider, S. H., Oppenheimer, M., Yohe, G. W., Hare, W., Mastrandrea, M. D., … & van Ypersele, J. P. (2009). Assessing dangerous climate change through an update of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) “reasons for concern.”  Proceedings of the national Academy of Sciences ,  106 (11), 4133-4137. Zhang, Y., Chen, W., & Riseborough, D. W. (2006). Temporal and spatial changes of permafrost in Canada since the end of the Little Ice Age.  Journal of Geophysical Research: Atmospheres ,  111 (D22).

As you can see, this opinion piece is more formal . This is a supported opinion essay, and the entire paper is written in an academic writing style. The author’s point is supported with proper referencing, and all the main ideas are provided in a clear and concise manner.

Pay attention that this opinion essay is written in the present tense and doesn’t use imperative voice.

No matter either you are writing an opinion essay for your school or college, make sure to follow our tips to write a successful essay.

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Things That a Student Must Know About Opinion Writing

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The term opinion writing could be a straightforward thing for some students like writing an opinion or something similar. For many, it could be a rather confusing assignment altogether.

Although opinion writing is somewhat jotting down your opinion on paper, but it still requires you to follow some guidelines to get it right.

And, this blog post has all the details from  our writers  for you to understand and improve your skill of opinion writing to a pro level. So, without further ado, let’s get started.

Table of Contents

What is an Opinion Writing?

Opinion writing is all about sharing your personal thoughts and feelings on a specific topic. You get to express your viewpoint and try to convince or inform readers about your stance. It’s like having a casual chat where you get to say what you think in a structured way.

When it comes to opinion writing, people share their thoughts and back them up with evidence, logic, and sometimes their own experiences. Unlike objective writing which tries to be neutral, opinion pieces are naturally biased and try to convince readers to see things from the author’s point of view. These types of writings can take many different forms, like articles, essays, reviews, and editorials, and they’re all about getting people to think critically and have discussions.

Effective opinion writing incorporates key elements such as a clear thesis statement that succinctly presents the author’s viewpoint, logical reasoning backed by evidence or examples, a coherent structure with well-organized paragraphs, and a compelling conclusion that reinforces the writer’s stance while potentially prompting action or further consideration from the audience.

Moreover, if you feel that this task could be very tricky for you this time, you can always use professional  paper writing help  available to you.

How writing an opinion essay can be challenging for students?

Writing an opinion essay poses several challenges for students:

Balancing Bias and Objectivity

Finding the equilibrium between expressing personal opinions passionately and maintaining a level of objectivity can be tough. Students need to present a strong opinion while acknowledging opposing viewpoints.

Research and Evidence

Collecting relevant, credible evidence to support their opinion requires thorough research. Students may struggle with finding reliable sources and integrating this evidence effectively into their essays. That’s what the best  essay writing service  assures!

Clarity and Structure

Organizing thoughts coherently and structuring the essay logically can be challenging. Creating a clear introduction, body paragraphs with supporting arguments, and a concise conclusion requires skill and practice.

Avoiding Emotional Bias

 Keeping emotions in check while presenting an opinion is vital. Students may find it challenging to balance emotional investment with rational arguments.

Time Management

Crafting a well-rounded opinion essay demands time for research, outlining, writing, and editing. Managing these tasks within given deadlines can be daunting for students juggling multiple assignments.

Types of Opinion Writing

Opinion writing comes in various forms, each serving different purposes and presenting viewpoints differently. Here are some common types:

Found in newspapers or magazines, these are written by editorial board members or columnists. They express the publication’s stance on an issue and often endorse or critique policies, events, or ideas.

Op-Eds (Opinion Editorials)

These are articles written by experts, guest contributors, or individuals not affiliated with the publication. Op-eds express personal viewpoints on current events, social issues, or policies.

Persuasive Essays

Common in academic settings, these essays aim to persuade the reader to adopt the writer’s opinion on a specific topic. They use evidence, logic, and reasoning to support the argument.

Reviews and Critiques

Found in arts, literature, or entertainment sections, these offer opinions on books, movies, plays, or other creative works. They analyze and evaluate the work based on personal judgment.

Letters to the Editor

Readers write these letters to publications expressing their opinions on recent articles, current events, or societal issues. They offer concise viewpoints for public consideration.

Blogs and Online Commentary

Personal blogs or online forums allow individuals to share their opinions on various topics, often with a more informal tone and style.

Political speeches, TED talks, or public addresses often convey the speaker’s opinion on a particular issue. They aim to persuade and inspire audiences.

Manifestos or Declarations

These are formal documents or statements presenting a group’s or individual’s beliefs, goals, or principles.

Opinion writing examples

Going through some examples of opinion writing can improve your understanding of this academic activity.

Topic:  Should School Uniforms Be Mandatory in All Schools?

School uniforms have been a topic of debate for years. While some argue that mandatory uniforms promote a sense of equality and discipline among students, others believe they restrict individuality and expression. In my opinion, school uniforms should not be compulsory as they limit students’ freedom of expression and fail to address underlying issues affecting educational environments.

Uniforms stifle students’ creativity and expression. School is not just about academic learning but also a place for self-discovery and expression. When students are forced into standardized clothing, they lose the chance to explore their individuality and unique style. This limitation could impact their self-esteem and hinder their ability to express themselves freely.

Proponents argue that uniforms promote discipline and reduce distractions. However, evidence suggests otherwise. Implementing uniforms does not inherently improve behavior or academic performance. Issues like bullying, academic engagement, and discipline require more comprehensive approaches beyond mere clothing regulations.

Uniform policies often overlook financial disparities among families. While uniforms aim to create equality, they can burden families financially, especially those struggling to afford them. This creates an inequitable environment, contradicting the supposed aim of fostering equality among students.

In conclusion, while the intention behind mandating school uniforms may be noble, their implementation fails to address deeper issues. Instead, fostering an environment where students are encouraged to express themselves while promoting inclusivity and addressing underlying problems within the educational system seems more beneficial. Therefore, I firmly believe that schools should reconsider the imposition of mandatory uniforms and focus on more comprehensive strategies to enhance the learning environment.

key elements of opinion writing

Topic:  Is Social Media Beneficial for Society?

The advent of social media has revolutionized communication, connecting people globally. While proponents argue its benefits in fostering connections and disseminating information, social media’s negative impacts on mental health, privacy, and misinformation outweigh its advantages.

Social media’s pervasive nature has led to concerns regarding its impact on mental well-being. Excessive use often correlates with increased feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. The pressure to curate an idealized online persona and the constant comparison to others can negatively affect mental health, particularly among the younger demographic.

The collection and utilization of personal data by social media platforms raise significant privacy concerns. Algorithms track user behavior, leading to targeted advertisements and potential misuse of personal information. This compromises user privacy, raising ethical and security issues regarding the handling of sensitive data.

The rapid dissemination of information on social media without proper fact-checking has led to the proliferation of misinformation and fake news. This misinformation, amplified by echo chambers and algorithmic biases, can manipulate public opinion, undermine trust in reliable sources, and contribute to societal division.

While social media offers connectivity and information sharing, its detrimental effects on mental health, privacy infringement, and the propagation of misinformation are pressing concerns. Addressing these issues requires a collective effort involving platform regulations, user awareness, and responsible usage. Therefore, while acknowledging its benefits, I advocate for a cautious approach to the use of social media in society.

Topic:  Should Junk Food be Banned in Schools?

The prevalence of junk food in school cafeterias has sparked debates regarding its impact on children’s health. While some argue that banning junk food in schools is necessary to promote healthier eating habits, I believe that while moderation is essential, an outright ban may not be the most effective solution due to various reasons, including potential backlash and the need for comprehensive education on nutrition.

The consumption of excessive junk food among children contributes to health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular problems. While addressing these concerns is crucial, an outright ban might not effectively address the root causes. Instead, regulated availability combined with education on healthier choices could yield more sustainable results.

Implementing a complete ban on junk food in schools could face resistance from students, parents, and even the food industry. This resistance might lead to black market trading of unhealthy snacks or an adverse reaction from students, possibly defeating the purpose of the ban. Incorporating healthier options alongside limited access to junk food could be a more viable solution.

A holistic approach involving comprehensive education on nutrition is crucial. Simply banning junk food without educating students about healthier alternatives and the importance of balanced diets may not instill long-term healthy eating habits. Empowering students with knowledge about making informed food choices is key to promoting a sustainable, healthier lifestyle.

While addressing the concerns related to junk food in schools is vital, there may be more effective approaches than an outright ban. Instead, a combination of regulated availability, alternatives, and comprehensive nutrition education can better equip students to make healthier choices. Thus, I advocate for a balanced strategy that considers both the health implications and the practicalities of enforcing such bans in schools.

Expert Tips for Getting Better at Opinion Writing

Here are some expert tips to enhance your opinion writing skills:

Clarity and Precision 

Clearly state your opinion upfront and support it with well-defined arguments and evidence.

Example:  In my opinion, mandatory volunteering in schools is beneficial because it instills a sense of community responsibility. For instance, students can learn empathy by engaging with different social groups.

Research 

Thoroughly research your topic to gather credible information and diverse perspectives that strengthen your viewpoint.

Example:  When writing about climate change policies, citing scientific studies from reputable sources like IPCC reports or peer-reviewed journals adds credibility to your argument.

Craft a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs supporting your opinion, and a strong conclusion summarizing your stance.

Acknowledge counterarguments and address them logically, showcasing a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

Example:  Acknowledging opposing views on gun control by stating, “While some argue for stricter regulations to curb gun-related violence, others advocate for preserving Second Amendment rights. However, implementing comprehensive background checks can potentially satisfy both concerns.”

Engaging Language

Use persuasive language, vivid examples, and compelling anecdotes to engage your readers and strengthen your argument.

Example:  The breathtaking landscapes of national parks not only offer recreational opportunities but also serve as living classrooms, fostering a deeper connection with nature among visitors of all ages.

Editing and Proofreading

Revise your work multiple times to eliminate errors, improve clarity, and ensure coherence in your writing.

Example:  After drafting your opinion piece, revise it for clarity, coherence, and grammar. Trim unnecessary words or sentences to maintain a concise and impactful argument.

Share your draft with a peer or mentor, seeking their perspective on the strength of your arguments and the clarity of your writing.

Opinion Writing Ideas

Here are some opinion writing prompts and ideas for you:

Opinion Writing Prompts

  • Should schools have mandatory classes on mental health?
  • Is social media more beneficial or harmful for society?
  • Should voting be mandatory in all elections?
  • Are standardized tests an accurate measure of a student’s abilities?
  • Is remote work more advantageous than office-based work?
  • Should the government provide free healthcare for everyone?
  • Are video games a beneficial form of entertainment?
  • Should the minimum wage be increased?
  • Is space exploration worth the investment?
  • Should plastic bags be banned?
  • Are electric cars the future of transportation?
  • Is censorship justified in certain circumstances?
  • Should the drinking age be lowered or raised?
  • Is a vegetarian or vegan diet better for the environment?
  • Should there be stricter gun control laws?
  • Is online learning more effective than traditional classroom learning?
  • Should athletes be role models?
  • Is technology making us more or less connected as a society?
  • Should there be limits on free speech?
  • Are renewable energy sources the solution to climate change?
  • Should the government regulate social media platforms more strictly?
  • Is online dating a good way to find a partner?
  • Should the use of smartphones be limited in schools?
  • Is the death penalty an acceptable form of punishment?
  • Should there be term limits for politicians?
  • Are genetically modified organisms (GMOs) safe for consumption?
  • Should animal testing be banned for cosmetic products?
  • Is homeschooling better than traditional schooling?
  • Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
  • Are professional athletes overpaid?
  • Is privacy more important than national security?
  • Should fast food advertising be banned?
  • Is a college education worth the cost?
  • Should there be stricter regulations on the use of AI technology?
  • Are reality TV shows harmful or entertaining?
  • Should parents be held legally responsible for their children’s actions?
  • Is social media addiction a serious problem?
  • Should there be a universal basic income?
  • Is cultural appropriation a valid concern?
  • Should public transportation be free?
  • Are single-sex schools more effective than co-ed schools?
  • Is online activism as effective as traditional forms of activism?
  • Should there be limits on CEO salaries?
  • Is the fashion industry promoting unrealistic beauty standards?
  • Should governments invest more in space exploration or ocean exploration?
  • Should there be stricter penalties for environmental pollution?
  • Is technology causing more harm than good?
  • Should the legal voting age be lowered to 16?
  • Is the concept of “cancel culture” beneficial or harmful to society?

Interesting Opinion Writing Topics

  • The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
  • Universal Basic Income: A Viable Solution?
  • The Ethics of Gene Editing in Humans
  • Artificial Intelligence: Boon or Bane?
  • Community Policing vs. Traditional Policing Methods
  • Cryptocurrency: Future of Financial Transactions?
  • Climate Change Policies: Are Governments Doing Enough?
  • Legalization of Assisted Suicide
  • Gender Pay Gap: Addressing Workplace Inequality
  • Cultural Appropriation: Where to Draw the Line?
  • Renewable Energy Investment: Economic and Environmental Benefits
  • Mandatory Vaccinations: Protecting Public Health or Infringing on Rights?
  • The Future of Work: Remote vs. In-Office
  • Animal Rights: Should Animals Have Legal Rights?
  • Space Exploration: Essential or Extravagant?
  • The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Employment
  • Affordable Housing: Tackling the Crisis
  • Privacy in the Digital Age: Balancing Security and Individual Rights
  • Globalization: Is It Beneficial for Everyone?
  • Mental Health Education in Schools: Necessity or Overreach?
  • Surveillance Technology: Striking the Balance Between Safety and Privacy
  • The Role of Big Tech in Society
  • Immigration Policies: Finding a Balance Between Security and Compassion
  • Sustainable Fashion: Should It Be the Norm?
  • The Future of Healthcare: Universal or Privatized?
  • Ethical Considerations in Animal Testing for Scientific Research
  • Education Reform: What Changes Are Necessary?
  • Autonomous Vehicles: Safety and Ethical Implications
  • The Influence of Media on Body Image and Self-Esteem
  • Workplace Diversity: Is Enough Being Done?
  • Cultural Diversity in Education: Benefits and Challenges
  • Mental Health Stigma: Breaking the Silence
  • Reducing Waste: The Importance of Recycling and Upcycling
  • Technology Addiction: Addressing the Growing Concern
  • Online Privacy: Do We Have Adequate Protection?
  • Cultural Preservation vs. Progression
  • The Role of Corporations in Addressing Climate Change
  • Food Security: Challenges and Solutions
  • The Ethics of Animal Testing in Medicine and Cosmetics
  • Social Responsibility of Celebrities and Influencers
  • Government Surveillance: Protecting Citizens or Infringing Rights?
  • The Impact of Fast Fashion on the Environment
  • Autonomous Weapons: Ethical Implications
  • Personal Responsibility in Combating Climate Change
  • The Future of Traditional Retail in the Digital Age
  • Cultural Diversity in the Workplace: Benefits and Challenges
  • Mental Health Support in the Workplace: A Necessity
  • Ethical Considerations of Biotechnology Advancements
  • The Role of AI in Education
  • Reducing Inequality: Economic Policies and Social Responsibility

How Can Students Get Better at Opinion Writing?

Improving opinion writing takes practice and a few strategies. Here’s how students can enhance their skills:

Read Opinion Pieces

Study opinion articles across different topics and from various sources. Analyze how writers structure their arguments, use evidence, and maintain their tone.

Understand the Basics

Ensure a clear understanding of the elements of opinion writing, such as thesis statements, supporting evidence, counterarguments, and conclusions.

Practice Frequent Writing

Encourage regular writing exercises focused on forming opinions, supporting them with evidence, and refining arguments. Start with shorter pieces and gradually work toward longer essays.

Explore Diverse Perspectives

Engage with diverse viewpoints on the same topic to understand the complexity and nuances of different opinions. This practice helps in building stronger arguments.

Develop Critical Thinking Skills

Encourage critical thinking by questioning assumptions, evaluating evidence, and considering alternative viewpoints.

Seek Feedback

Have peers, teachers, or mentors review your writing. Constructive feedback helps identify strengths and areas for improvement.

Use Templates or Outlines

Create outlines or templates to organize thoughts effectively. A clear structure ensures coherence in the argument.

Focus on Clarity and Precision

Practice expressing ideas clearly and precisely. Use specific examples and language to strengthen arguments.

Revision and Editing

Emphasize the importance of revising and editing. Learning to refine and polish writing enhances its impact and clarity.

Explore Different Formats

Experiment with different formats like editorials, blog posts, or letters to understand how opinions can be presented in various styles.

Stay Informed

Stay updated on current events, social issues, and global happenings. A broader knowledge base enhances the depth of opinions.

Reflect and Analyze

Encourage self-reflection after completing writing tasks. Consider what worked well, what could be improved, and how to enhance future writing.

Final Thoughts

Understanding opinion writing involves mastering the art of presenting subjective viewpoints with clarity, persuasion, and credibility. Here are some key takeaways:

  • Opinion writing thrives on a distinct voice. Clearly articulating personal opinions is crucial.
  • Backing opinions with credible evidence, facts, or examples strengthens arguments, lending weight to the writer’s perspective.
  • Effective opinion pieces engage readers by anticipating and addressing counterarguments while persuading them to consider the writer’s viewpoint.
  • Maintaining a respectful tone, even when disagreeing, fosters constructive dialogue and avoids alienating readers who hold differing opinions.
  • Being transparent about biases or personal stakes in an issue bolsters the authenticity of the opinion piece.
  • Concluding opinion pieces with a call to action or a firm conclusion leaves a lasting impact on readers.

Hopefully, you now have a good idea of what opinion writing is all about. Still, if you have a question or need an expert to deal with this or could use any other  assignment writing service , don’t hesitate to reach us out.

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What Is The Definition Of Opinion Writing

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Opinion writing is formal writing which demands one's opinion on a topic. Generally it is written in the article or essay format and must be informative as well.

What Is The Concept Of An Opinion Essay?

It is formal writing in which a writer tells his or her opinion on a topic which is supported by some examples and facts.

How Can One Write An Opinion Essay?

Opinion essays are written by the students on a topic in which they need to express their opinion through some explanation and examples. Most students find difficulty in writing a good opinion essay so here are some insights which students can follow.

  • Each paragraph of the opinion essay must be written with topic sentences.
  • Opinion essay documents should be written in a formal style.
  • The opinion paragraph should be written in an organised way in the opinion essay writing.
  • Your thesis of the essay should be well thought and it tells some brief information about the opinion essay.
  • An opinion based essay should be written in formal language like hence, however and regardless of.
  • Students should not write internet language in their opinion essays.
  • You are not allowed to use informal punctuation in opinion essay writing.

What Is The Difference Between Argumentative And Discursive Essay?

What is the opinion essay structure.

It has been observed that a significant number of students struggle in drafting a format of opinion essay; hence they can have a look at this opinion essay structuring.

Opinion essay outline : Formatting an outline can help students in writing a well-structured essay. With the help of outline, students can write a well organised opinion essay. So, before starting writing an opinion essay you should frame an outline. Following are some insights on drafting an outline.

  • Introduction
  • Thesis statement
  • Body- In this section, paragraph-1, paragraph-2 and paragraph-3

Opinion essay introduction :

  • First of all, students should try to catch the reader's attention because they are your audience.
  • Mentioning the main topic on which you are writing the opinion essay.
  • Students should clearly write the thesis statement in the introduction part.
  • Writing the author's details in which you have to write the author's name and publication date.

Thesis statement :

  • In this section, you are required to mention short information about the opinion essay.
  • A few sentences of the complete topic.
  • One sentence that connects with the 1st body paragraph.

Body paragraph-1 : In section students need to write the supporting arguments on the opinion essay. Students should write body parts with explanations and examples. At the end, your paragraph should connect with the 2nd body paragraph.

Body paragraph-2 : In this section, you need to write a supporting argument with proper explanation and example and a connecting sentence to the 3rd paragraph.

Body paragraph-3 : In this body paragraph, students need to write the explanation with example and a connecting sentence with conclusion.

Opinion writing conclusion : In the conclusion part, students need to write a good summary of the provided topic with a concluding sentence which can tell the entire story of the topic.

What Are The Types Of Synthesis Essays?

What are the opinion essay examples.

Students can easily understand the opinion essays with the help of some examples.

  • Knowledge and communication is the base of successes.

I completely agree with the above stated statement because without proper knowledge and communication, you cannot achieve the desired goal whether it is your personal life or professional life.

What Are The Common Mistakes Found In Opinion Essays?

There are some pitfalls found in opinion essay writing.

  • Students should avoid the reiteration of the sentences in opinion essay writing.
  • Standards are not followed by the writers which destroy the whole essence of writing.
  • Most students fail to establish interconnection between the paragraphs.
  • Many students do not check the grammatical errors in opinion essays.
  • Many times, students do not write conclusions in their essays.
  • Most students forget to mention their ideas while writing the author's ideas.

What Is The Definition Of Short Essay?

What is to be avoided in opinion essay writing.

Many students feel difficulty in writing their opinion essay but they can write the best essay but at the same time they should have to avoid some points in opinion essay writing.

  • Many Times students forget to mention the topic of the question in the introduction part.
  • You should not forget to write your opinion about the topic in the introduction part.
  • Students should not write anything out of the topic.
  • You should never start your opinion essay with a rhetorical sentence.
  • The last part of your opinion essay introduction should be methodology of argument.
  • Structure of the essay should be well organised.
  • In the conclusion part, students should highlight the prime ideas of the topic.
  • Your introduction should be written in one paragraph only.
  • Conclusion of the opinion essay should also be written in one paragraph.
  • You should not incorporate any information in the conclusion which you did not use in the main body of your essay.
  • You should not deviate from the main topic in opinion essay conclusion writing.
  • Inserting the quotation without any relevance in the opinion writing.
  • Many students fail to cite references in the opinion writing.
  • Use of informal language in the opinion essay writing.
  • Many students do not write strong thesis statements in their opinion essay writing.
  • Avoiding plagiarism in opinion essay writing.
  • Students should not refer to any unauthentic source of information.

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What is Opinion Writing for Kids? A Beginner’s Guide

What Is Opinion Writing For Kids

Opinion writing is a form of writing where you express your thoughts and feelings about a particular topic. It is a way to share your perspective on a subject and persuade others to see things from your point of view. Opinion writing is an important skill for kids to learn, as it helps them develop critical thinking and communication skills.

In opinion writing, you are encouraged to express your ideas and beliefs in a clear and concise manner. You can write about anything that interests you, from your favorite book to a current event. The key is to support your opinion with evidence and facts, and to present your argument in a logical and persuasive way. By learning how to write opinion pieces, kids can become more confident and effective communicators.

Understanding Opinion Writing

Definition of opinion writing.

Opinion writing is a type of writing in which you express your opinion or point of view on a topic. It is a way of sharing your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs about a particular subject. In opinion writing, you are not just presenting facts, but also your own perspective on the topic. You can use evidence and examples to support your opinion, but your main goal is to convince the reader of your point of view.

Importance of Opinion Writing

Opinion writing is an important skill for kids to learn because it helps them develop critical thinking, communication, and persuasive skills. By expressing their opinions, kids learn how to organize their thoughts, use evidence to support their arguments, and communicate their ideas effectively. Opinion writing also helps kids develop empathy and understanding of different viewpoints, as they learn to consider other perspectives and respond to opposing arguments.

In addition, opinion writing can be a fun and engaging way for kids to express themselves creatively and explore their own interests and passions. It can be a way to share their thoughts on a variety of topics, from current events and social issues to books, movies, and video games.

Overall, opinion writing is an important skill that can benefit kids in many ways. By expressing their opinions and learning how to persuade others, kids can develop their communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and creativity.

Components of Opinion Writing

Opinion writing is a type of writing where you express your thoughts and feelings about a particular topic. It is important to know the components of opinion writing so that you can write a clear and effective piece.

Stating Your Opinion

The first component of opinion writing is stating your opinion. This means that you need to clearly state what you think about the topic you are writing about. You can do this by writing a thesis statement, which is a sentence that summarizes your opinion.

For example, if you are writing about whether or not kids should have to wear school uniforms, your thesis statement might be, “I believe that kids should not have to wear school uniforms because it limits their self-expression.”

Supporting Your Opinion

The second component of opinion writing is supporting your opinion. This means that you need to provide reasons and evidence to support your opinion. You can do this by using facts, statistics, examples, and personal experiences.

For example, if you are writing about why you think kids should not have to wear school uniforms, you might provide reasons such as:

  • School uniforms limit kids’ self-expression
  • School uniforms can be expensive for families
  • School uniforms do not necessarily improve academic performance

Concluding Your Opinion

The final component of opinion writing is concluding your opinion. This means that you need to wrap up your piece by restating your opinion and summarizing your reasons and evidence. You can also provide a call to action or a final thought.

For example, if you are concluding your opinion piece about school uniforms, you might write something like:

“In conclusion, I believe that kids should not have to wear school uniforms. By limiting self-expression and being expensive for families, school uniforms do not necessarily improve academic performance. It’s important for schools to consider alternative dress codes that allow for more individuality and creativity among students.”

Examples of Opinion Writing for Kids

Opinion writing is a type of writing where you express your thoughts and feelings about a particular topic. It is an opportunity for you to share your personal perspective on a subject, and it can be a fun and engaging way to practice your writing skills. Here are a few examples of opinion writing for kids:

Example 1: Movie Reviews

Movie reviews are a great way to practice opinion writing. After watching a movie, you can write a review sharing your thoughts and feelings about the film. You can talk about the plot, the characters, the setting, and anything else that stood out to you. Remember to use evidence from the movie to support your opinion, and to be respectful of other people’s opinions if they disagree with you.

Example 2: Book Reviews

Book reviews are similar to movie reviews, but instead of writing about a movie, you write about a book. You can talk about the characters, the plot, the writing style, and anything else that you liked or didn’t like about the book. Again, it’s important to use evidence from the book to support your opinion, and to be respectful of other people’s opinions.

Example 3: Editorial Writing

Editorial writing is a type of opinion writing where you write about a current event or issue. You can express your thoughts and feelings about the topic, and you can also suggest solutions or ways to address the issue. Editorial writing can be a powerful way to make your voice heard and to advocate for change.

Remember, when writing an opinion piece, it’s important to have a clear thesis statement that states your opinion, to use evidence to support your opinion, and to be respectful of other people’s opinions. With practice, you can become a skilled opinion writer and share your unique perspective with the world.

Tips for Writing an Opinion Piece

Writing an opinion piece can be a fun and exciting way to express your thoughts and ideas. Here are some tips to help you write a great opinion piece.

Choosing a Topic

The first step in writing an opinion piece is to choose a topic that you feel strongly about. It could be something you have experienced, seen, or heard about in the news. Make sure it’s a topic that you can research and gather information on to support your argument.

Using Persuasive Language

When writing an opinion piece, it’s important to use persuasive language to convince your reader of your point of view. Use strong and clear language to express your ideas and opinions. Use examples and evidence to support your argument and make it more convincing.

Staying Focused

It’s important to stay focused on your topic and not get sidetracked. Make sure your writing stays on topic and doesn’t wander off into other areas. Use clear and concise sentences to get your point across.

In summary, writing an opinion piece can be a great way to express your thoughts and ideas. Choose a topic that you feel strongly about, use persuasive language, and stay focused on your topic. With these tips, you can write a great opinion piece that will get your message across.

In conclusion, opinion writing is a fun and creative way for kids to express their thoughts and feelings about a particular topic. By using persuasive language and strong arguments, kids can convince their readers to agree with their point of view.

Remember, when writing an opinion piece, it’s important to clearly state your opinion and provide reasons to support it. Use examples and evidence to back up your arguments and make sure to address any counterarguments that may arise.

Additionally, it’s important to consider your audience and their perspective. Think about what they may already know or believe about the topic and tailor your writing to appeal to them.

Overall, opinion writing is a valuable skill for kids to develop as it encourages critical thinking, effective communication, and confidence in expressing one’s own ideas. So go ahead and start writing your own opinion pieces – your voice matters!

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Definition Essay

Barbara P

Definition Essay - Writing Guide, Examples and Tips

14 min read

Published on: Oct 9, 2020

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

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Many students struggle with writing definition essays due to a lack of clarity and precision in their explanations.

This obstructs them from effectively conveying the essence of the terms or concepts they are tasked with defining. Consequently, the essays may lack coherence, leaving readers confused and preventing them from grasping the intended meaning.

But don’t worry!

In this guide, we will delve into effective techniques and step-by-step approaches to help students craft an engaging definition essay.

Continue reading to learn the correct formation of a definition essay. 

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What is a Definition Essay?

Just as the name suggests, a definition essay defines and explains a term or a concept. Unlike a narrative essay, the purpose of writing this essay is only to inform the readers.

Writing this essay type can be deceivingly tricky. Some terms, concepts, and objects have concrete definitions when explained. In contrast others are solely based on the writer’s understanding and point of view.

A definition essay requires a writer to use different approaches when discussing a term. These approaches are the following:

  • Denotation - It is when you provide a literal or academic definition of the term.
  • Connotation - It is when the writer provides an implied meaning or definition of the term.
  • Enumeration - For this approach, a list is employed to define a term or a concept.
  • Analogy - It is a technique in which something is defined by implementing a comparison.
  • Negation - It is when you define a term by stating what it is not.

A single or combination of approaches can be used in the essay. 

Definition Essay Types

There are several types of definition essays that you may be asked to write, depending on the purpose and scope of the assignment. 

In this section, we will discuss some of the most common types of definition essays.

Descriptive Definition Essay 

This type of essay provides a detailed description of a term or concept, emphasizing its key features and characteristics. 

The goal of a descriptive definition essay is to help readers understand the term or concept in a more profound way.

Stipulative Definition Essay 

In a stipulative definition essay, the writer provides a unique definition of a term or concept. This type of essay is often used in academic settings to define a term in a particular field of study. 

The goal of a stipulative definition essay is to provide a precise and clear definition that is specific to the context of the essay.

Analytical Definition Essay 

This compare and contrast essay type involves analyzing a term or concept in-depth. Breaking it down into its component parts, and examining how they relate to each other. 

The goal of an analytical definition essay is to provide a more nuanced and detailed understanding of the term or concept being discussed.

Persuasive Definition Essay 

A persuasive definition essay is an argumentative essay that aims to persuade readers to accept a particular definition of a term or concept.

The writer presents their argument for the definition and uses evidence and examples to support their position.

Explanatory Definition Essay 

An explanatory definition essay is a type of expository essay . It aims to explain a complex term or concept in a way that is easy to understand for the reader. 

The writer breaks down the term or concept into simpler parts and provides examples and analogies to help readers understand it better.

Extended Definition Essay 

An extended definition essay goes beyond the definition of a word or concept and provides a more in-depth analysis and explanation. 

The goal of an extended definition essay is to provide a comprehensive understanding of a term, concept, or idea. This includes its history, origins, and cultural significance. 

How to Write a Definition Essay?

Writing a definition essay is simple if you know the correct procedure. This essay, like all the other formal pieces of documents, requires substantial planning and effective execution.

The following are the steps involved in writing a definition essay effectively:

Instead of choosing a term that has a concrete definition available, choose a word that is complicated . Complex expressions have abstract concepts that require a writer to explore deeper. Moreover, make sure that different people perceive the term selected differently. 

Once you have a word to draft your definition essay for, read the dictionary. These academic definitions are important as you can use them to compare your understanding with the official concept.

Drafting a definition essay is about stating the dictionary meaning and your explanation of the concept. So the writer needs to have some information about the term.

In addition to this, when exploring the term, make sure to check the term’s origin. The history of the word can make you discuss it in a better way.

Coming up with an exciting title for your essay is important. The essay topic will be the first thing that your readers will witness, so it should be catchy.

Creatively draft an essay topic that reflects meaning. In addition to this, the usage of the term in the title should be correctly done. The readers should get an idea of what the essay is about and what to expect from the document.

Now that you have a topic in hand, it is time to gather some relevant information. A definition essay is more than a mere explanation of the term. It represents the writer’s perception of the chosen term and the topic.

So having only personal opinions will not be enough to defend your point. Deeply research and gather information by consulting credible sources.

The gathered information needs to be organized to be understandable. The raw data needs to be arranged to give a structure to the content.

Here's a generic outline for a definition essay:

Are you searching for an in-depth guide on crafting a well-structured definition essay?Check out this definition essay outline blog!

6. Write the First Draft

Drafting each section correctly is a daunting task. Understanding what or what not to include in these sections requires a writer to choose wisely.

The start of your essay matters a lot. If it is on point and attractive, the readers will want to read the text. As the first part of the essay is the introduction , it is considered the first impression of your essay.

To write your definition essay introduction effectively, include the following information:

  • Start your essay with a catchy hook statement that is related to the topic and the term chosen.
  • State the generally known definition of the term. If the word chosen has multiple interpretations, select the most common one.
  • Provide background information precisely. Determine the origin of the term and other relevant information.
  • Shed light on the other unconventional concepts and definitions related to the term.
  • Decide on the side or stance you want to pick in your essay and develop a thesis statement .

After briefly introducing the topic, fully explain the concept in the body section . Provide all the details and evidence that will support the thesis statement. To draft this section professionally, add the following information:

  • A detailed explanation of the history of the term.
  • Analysis of the dictionary meaning and usage of the term.
  • A comparison and reflection of personal understanding and the researched data on the concept.

Once all the details are shared, give closure to your discussion. The last paragraph of the definition essay is the conclusion . The writer provides insight into the topic as a conclusion.

The concluding paragraphs include the following material:

  • Summary of the important points.
  • Restated thesis statement.
  • A final verdict on the topic.

7. Proofread and Edit

Although the writing process ends with the concluding paragraph, there is an additional step. It is important to proofread the essay once you are done writing. Proofread and revise your document a couple of times to make sure everything is perfect.

Before submitting your assignment, make edits, and fix all mistakes and errors.

If you want to learn more about how to write a definition essay, here is a video guide for you!

Definition Essay Structure 

The structure of a definition essay is similar to that of any other academic essay. It should consist of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. 

However, the focus of a definition essay is on defining and explaining a particular term or concept. 

In this section, we will discuss the structure of a definition essay in detail.

Introduction 

Get the idea of writing an introduction for a definition essay with this example:

Body Paragraphs

Here is an example of how to craft your definition essay body paragraph:

Types of the Term/Concept 

If applicable, the writer may want to include a section that discusses the different types or categories of the term or concept being defined. 

This section should explain the similarities and differences between the types, using examples and anecdotes to illustrate the points.

Examples of the Term/Concept in Action 

The writer should also include real-life examples of the term or concept being defined in action. 

This will help the reader better understand the term or concept in context and how it is used in everyday life.

Conclusion 

This example will help you writing a conclusion fo you essay:

Definition Essay Examples

It is important to go through some examples and samples before writing an essay. This is to understand the writing process and structure of the assigned task well.

Following are some examples of definition essays to give our students a better idea of the concept. 

Understanding the Definition Essay

Definition Essay Example

Definition Essay About Friendship

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Success Definition Essay

Beauty Definition Essay

Definition Essay Topics

Selecting the right topic is challenging for other essay types. However, picking a suitable theme for a definition essay is equally tricky yet important. Pick an interesting subject to ensure maximum readership.

If you are facing writer’s block, here is a list of some great definition essay topics for your help. Choose from the list below and draft a compelling essay.

  • Authenticity
  • Sustainability
  • Mindfulness

Here are some more extended definition essay topics:

  • Social media addiction
  • Ethical implications of gene editing
  • Personalized learning in the digital age
  • Ecosystem services
  • Cultural assimilation versus cultural preservation
  • Sustainable fashion
  • Gender equality in the workplace
  • Financial literacy and its impact on personal finance
  • Ethical considerations in artificial intelligence
  • Welfare state and social safety nets

Need more topics? Check out this definition essay topics blog!

Definition Essay Writing Tips

Knowing the correct writing procedure is not enough if you are not aware of the essay’s small technicalities. To help students write a definition essay effortlessly, expert writers of CollegeEssay.org have gathered some simple tips.

These easy tips will make your assignment writing phase easy.

  • Choose an exciting yet informative topic for your essay.
  • When selecting the word, concept, or term for your essay, make sure you have the knowledge.
  • When consulting a dictionary for the definition, provide proper referencing as there are many choices available.
  • To make the essay informative and credible, always provide the origin and history of the term.
  • Highlight different meanings and interpretations of the term.
  • Discuss the transitions and evolution in the meaning of the term in any.
  • Provide your perspective and point of view on the chosen term.

Following these tips will guarantee you better grades in your academics.

By following the step-by-step approach explained in this guide, you will acquire the skills to craft an outstanding essay. 

Struggling with the thought, " write my college essay for m e"? Look no further.

Our dedicated definition essay writing service is here to craft the perfect essay that meets your academic needs.

For an extra edge, explore our AI essay writer , a tool designed to refine your essays to perfection. 

Barbara P (Literature, Marketing)

Barbara is a highly educated and qualified author with a Ph.D. in public health from an Ivy League university. She has spent a significant amount of time working in the medical field, conducting a thorough study on a variety of health issues. Her work has been published in several major publications.

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Definition of essay

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Definition of essay  (Entry 2 of 2)

transitive verb

  • composition

attempt , try , endeavor , essay , strive mean to make an effort to accomplish an end.

attempt stresses the initiation or beginning of an effort.

try is often close to attempt but may stress effort or experiment made in the hope of testing or proving something.

endeavor heightens the implications of exertion and difficulty.

essay implies difficulty but also suggests tentative trying or experimenting.

strive implies great exertion against great difficulty and specifically suggests persistent effort.

Examples of essay in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'essay.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle French essai , ultimately from Late Latin exagium act of weighing, from Latin ex- + agere to drive — more at agent

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 4

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Phrases Containing essay

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Cite this entry.

“Essay.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/essay. Accessed 31 Mar. 2024.

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Kids definition of essay.

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Martin Wolf

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Are we witnessing the return of fascism? Is Donald Trump, to take the most important contemporary example, a fascist? Is France’s Marine Le Pen? Or Hungary’s Viktor Orbán? The answer depends on what one means by “fascism”. But what we are now seeing is not just authoritarianism. It is authoritarianism with fascistic characteristics.

We must start with two distinctions. The first is between Nazism and fascism. As the late Umberto Eco , humanist and author of The Name of the Rose , noted in an essay on “ Ur-Fascism ” published in the New York Review of Books in 1995, “Hitler’s Mein Kampf is a manifesto of a complete political programme”. In power, Nazism was, like Stalinism, “totalitarian”: it controlled everything. Mussolini’s fascism was different. In Eco’s words, “Mussolini did not have any philosophy: he had only rhetoric . . . Fascism was a fuzzy totalitarianism, a collage of different philosophical and political ideas, a beehive of contradictions.” Trump is similarly “fuzzy”.

The second distinction is between then and now. The fascisms of the 1920s and 1930s emerged from the first world war. They were naturally militaristic in both means and aims. Moreover, in that age, centralised organisation was necessary if orders were to be spread. Nowadays, social media will do much of this work.

So, today’s fascism is different from that of the past. But this does not mean the notion is meaningless. In his essay, Eco describes a number of characteristics of “Ur-Fascism — or Eternal Fascism”.

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definition of opinion essay

One feature is the cult of tradition. Fascists worship the past. The corollary is that they reject the modern. “The Enlightenment, the Age of Reason,” Eco writes, “is seen as the beginning of modern depravity. In this sense Ur-Fascism can be defined as irrationalism.”

Another feature is the cult of action for action’s sake, from which flows a further one: hostility to analytical criticism. And it follows from this that “Ur-Fascism . . . seeks for consensus by exploiting and exacerbating the natural fear of difference . . . Thus Ur-Fascism is racist by definition.”

Another aspect is that “Ur-Fascism derives from individual or social frustration. That is why one of the most typical features of the historical fascism was the appeal to a frustrated middle class.”

Ur-Fascism binds the supporters it recruits from the ranks of the disaffected middle class through nationalism. Those followers, Eco adds, “must feel humiliated by the ostentatious wealth and force of their enemies”. For Ur-Fascism, moreover, “there is no struggle for life but, rather, life is lived for struggle”.

Next, for Eco, is the fact that Ur-Fascism advocates a popular elitism. In Ur-Fascism, he writes, “Every citizen belongs to the best people of the world.” Moreover, “everybody is educated to become a hero”.

For Ur-Fascism, Eco adds, “the People is conceived as a . . . monolithic entity expressing the Common Will. Since no large quantity of human beings can have a common will, the Leader pretends to be their interpreter.”

The origin of Ur-Fascism’s distinctive machismo is that “the Ur-Fascist transfers his will to power to sexual matters”. Implied here is both disdain for women and intolerance and condemnation of non-standard sexual habits.

Finally, “Ur-Fascism speaks Newspeak ” — it lies systematically. As Hannah Arendt noted in an interview in the New York Review of Books in 1978 , “If everybody always lies to you, the consequence is not that you believe the lies, but rather that nobody believes anything any longer.” The followers believe the leader, simply because he wears the sacred mantle of leadership.

This is a fascinating list. If one looks at today’s rightwing populism, one notices precisely the cults of the past and of tradition, hostility to any form of criticism, fear of differences and racism, the origins in social frustration, nationalism and fervent belief in plots, the view that the “people” are an elite, the role of the leader in telling his followers what is true, the will to power and the machismo.

Just this month, Trump described immigrants as “animals”, warned of a “bloodbath” if he did not win next November and lauded the insurrectionists of January 6 2021 as “unbelievable patriots”. We know that he and his supporters intend to stuff the bureaucracy and judiciary with people personally loyal to him and criticise the legal system for holding him to account: he, after all, is above the law. Not least, he has turned the Republican party into his own.

Yes, the movements of today are also different from those of the 1920s and 1930s. Trump is not glorifying war, other than economic and trade wars. But he does glorify Putin, whom he called a “ genius” for his war on Ukraine. The European politicians with roots in the fascist past are also varied. Yet they, too, share many characteristics of Ur-Fascism, notably traditionalism, nationalism and racism, but are without some others, notably glorification of violence.

The fascism of Germany or Italy of the 1920s and 1930s does not now exist, except perhaps in Russia. But the same could be said of other traditions. Conservatism is not what it was a century ago, as is true of liberalism and socialism. The ideas and concrete proposals of political traditions alter with society, the economy and technology. That is no surprise. But these traditions still have a common core of attitudes to history, politics and society. This is also true of fascism. History does not repeat itself. But it rhymes. It is rhyming now. Do not be complacent. It is dangerous to take a ride on fascism.

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Guest Essay

Elite College Admissions Have Turned Students Into Brands

An illustration of a doll in a box attired in a country-western outfit and surrounded by musical accessories and a laptop. The doll wears a distressed expression and is pushing against the front of the box, which is emblazoned with the words “Environmentally Conscious Musician” and “Awesome Applicant.” The backdrop is a range of pink with three twinkling lights surrounding the box.

By Sarah Bernstein

Ms. Bernstein is a playwright, a writing coach and an essayist in Brooklyn.

“I just can’t think of anything,” my student said.

After 10 years of teaching college essay writing, I was familiar with this reply. For some reason, when you’re asked to recount an important experience from your life, it is common to forget everything that has ever happened to you. It’s a long-form version of the anxiety that takes hold at a corporate retreat when you’re invited to say “one interesting thing about yourself,” and you suddenly believe that you are the most boring person in the entire world. Once during a version of this icebreaker, a man volunteered that he had only one kidney, and I remember feeling incredibly jealous of him.

I tried to jog this student’s memory. What about his love of music? Or his experience learning English? Or that time on a summer camping trip when he and his friends had nearly drowned? “I don’t know,” he sighed. “That all seems kind of cliché.”

Applying to college has always been about standing out. When I teach college essay workshops and coach applicants one on one, I see my role as helping students to capture their voice and their way of processing the world, things that are, by definition, unique to each individual. Still, many of my students (and their parents) worry that as getting into college becomes increasingly competitive, this won’t be enough to set them apart.

Their anxiety in understandable. On Thursday, in a tradition known as “Ivy Day,” all eight Ivy League schools released their regular admission decisions. Top colleges often issue statements about how impressive (and competitive) their applicant pools were this cycle. The intention is to flatter accepted students and assuage rejected ones, but for those who have not yet applied to college, these statements reinforce the fear that there is an ever-expanding cohort of applicants with straight A’s and perfect SATs and harrowing camping trip stories all competing with one another for a vanishingly small number of spots.

This scarcity has led to a boom in the college consulting industry, now estimated to be a $2.9 billion business. In recent years, many of these advisers and companies have begun to promote the idea of personal branding — a way for teenagers to distinguish themselves by becoming as clear and memorable as a good tagline.

While this approach often leads to a strong application, students who brand themselves too early or too definitively risk missing out on the kind of exploration that will prepare them for adult life.

Like a corporate brand, the personal brand is meant to distill everything you stand for (honesty, integrity, high quality, low prices) into a cohesive identity that can be grasped at a glance. On its website, a college prep and advising company called Dallas Admissions explains the benefits of branding this way: “Each person is complex, yet admissions officers only have a small amount of time to spend learning about each prospective student. The smart student boils down key aspects of himself or herself into their personal ‘brand’ and sells that to the college admissions officer.”

Identifying the key aspects of yourself may seem like a lifelong project, but unfortunately, college applicants don’t have that kind of time. Online, there are dozens of lesson plans and seminars promising to walk students through the process of branding themselves in five to 10 easy steps. The majority begin with questions I would have found panic-inducing as a teenager, such as, “What is the story you want people to tell about you when you’re not in the room?”

Where I hoped others would describe me as “normal” or, in my wildest dreams, “cool,” today’s teenagers are expected to leave this exercise with labels like, Committed Athlete and Compassionate Leader or Environmentally Conscious Musician. Once students have a draft of their ideal self, they’re offered instructions for manifesting it (or at least, the appearance of it) in person and online. These range from common-sense tips (not posting illegal activity on social media) to more drastic recommendations (getting different friends).

It’s not just that these courses cut corners on self-discovery; it’s that they get the process backward. A personal brand is effective only if you can support it with action, so instead of finding their passion and values through experience, students are encouraged to select a passion as early as possible and then rack up the experience to substantiate it. Many college consultants suggest beginning to align your activities with your college ambitions by ninth grade, while the National Institute of Certified College Planners recommends students “talk with parents, guardians, and/or an academic adviser to create a clear plan for your education and career-related goals” in junior high.

The idea of a group of middle schoolers soberly mapping out their careers is both comical and depressing, but when I read student essays today, I can see that this advice is getting through. Over the past few years, I have been struck by how many high school seniors already have defined career goals as well as a C.V. of relevant extracurriculars to go with them. This widens the gap between wealthy students and those who lack the resources to secure a fancy research gig or start their own small business. (A shocking number of college applicants claim to have started a small business.) It also puts pressure on all students to define themselves at a moment when they are anxious to fit in and yet changing all the time.

In the world of branding, a word that appears again and again is “consistency.” If you are Charmin, that makes sense. People opening a roll of toilet paper do not want to be surprised. If you are a teenage human being, however, that is an unreasonable expectation. Changing one’s interests, opinions and presentation is a natural part of adolescence and an instructive one. I find that my students with scattershot résumés are often the most confident. They’re not afraid to push back against suggestions that ring false and will insist on revising their essay until it actually “feels like me.” On the other hand, many of my most accomplished students are so quick to accept feedback that I am wary of offering it, lest I become one more adult trying to shape them into an admission-worthy ideal.

I understand that for parents, prioritizing exploration can feel like a risky bet. Self-insight is hard to quantify and to communicate in a college application. When it comes to building a life, however, this kind of knowledge has more value than any accolade, and it cannot be generated through a brainstorming exercise in a six-step personal branding course online. To equip kids for the world, we need to provide them not just with opportunities for achievement, but with opportunities to fail, to learn, to wander and to change their minds.

In some ways, the college essay is a microcosm of modern adolescence. Depending on how you look at it, it’s either a forum for self-discovery or a high-stakes test you need to ace. I try to assure my students that it is the former. I tell them that it’s a chance to take stock of everything you’ve experienced and learned over the past 18 years and everything you have to offer as a result.

That can be a profound process. But to embark on it, students have to believe that colleges really want to see the person behind the brand. And they have to have the chance to know who that person is.

Sarah Bernstein is a playwright, a writing coach and an essayist.

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

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  2. How to Write an Opinion Essay: Structure and Writing Tips

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  3. How To Write An Opinion Essay? Definition, Tips, And Examples

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  1. What's Your Opinion?

  2. Opinion essay analysis

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  1. How to Write an Opinion Essay: Structure, Examples

    Body Paragraph 3. Supporting argument. Example. Explanation. A linking sentence to the conclusion. Conclusion paragraph. Summary of the entire paper. A conclusive sentence (the bigger picture in conclusion) If you need some help, leave us a message ' write my essay cheap ' and we'll help.

  2. How to Write an Opinion Essay (With Tips and Examples)

    An opinion essay, also known as an opinion paper, is a formal piece of writing wherein the author expresses their viewpoint on a given subject and provides factual and anecdotal evidence to substantiate their opinion. ... including the definition, topics, opinion writing examples, and requirements, to write an opinion essay and transform novice ...

  3. Tips on Generating a Strong Opinion Essay

    When writing an opinion essay, it is important to use formal language throughout. Even though you can decide to use informal language, keep various professional and formal words such as: "furthermore", "thus", "moreover" and so on. In the same vein, avoid the use of Internet slang words like "OMG", "LMAO," etc.

  4. Ultimate Guide To Writing An Opinion Essay: 50 ...

    3. Using transitional words and phrases: Use transitional words and phrases to connect your ideas and make your essay flow smoothly. Examples include "however," "on the other hand," and "in addition.". 4. Avoiding logical fallacies: Logical fallacies are errors in reasoning that can weaken your argument.

  5. An opinion essay

    Learn how to write an opinion essay. Hi kimmie, Thanks for your question. In academic and formal writing, there is a general preference for precision over vagueness, so generally speaking it's better to avoid this usage of so and thing and use more precise and academic terms when they are available (e.g.Therefore, the first factor/issue to consider is ...

  6. How to Write an Opinion Essay

    Opinion Essay Definition. An opinion essay is a piece of writing that reflects the author's point of view on a particular topic. Overview of an Opinion Essay. Learning how to express your opinion and back it up in a constructive argument is an important life skill. Whether in a casual conversation or a more serious situation, being able to ...

  7. Opinion Essay Writing

    Let us have a look at the detailed opinion essay format structure given below. Introduction. Grab the audience's interest with a hook statement. Present your opinion. Introduce the main topic. State the thesis statement. Body Paragraph 1. Write a topic sentence with the first reason. Supporting evidence.

  8. How to Write an Opinion Essay (With Tips and Examples)

    4. Include your thesis statement. As you're writing an opinion essay, it's essential to use the researched information to create your thesis and support your argument, rather than simply quoting information from other sources. Your thesis comprises your position or claim on the selected topic and indicates to the reader what your essay is about.

  9. An opinion essay

    Read the question carefully. Respond to all ideas in it or all parts of it. Plan your ideas first and then choose the best ones. Introduce your essay by restating the question in your own words. Show understanding of both sides of the argument. Use linking words to connect your ideas. Draw your conclusion from the main ideas in your essay.

  10. Opinion Writing: Everything You Need To Know (+ 8 Examples)

    Opinion writing is a powerful type of writing that helps you convey your opinion to the audience in the most effective and compelling manner. It has a specific format: Thesis statement. Introduction. Body. Conclusion. It also consists of structural elements such as. Arguments. Evidence.

  11. Writing an opinion essay

    An opinion essay has three parts: Introduction; Arguments or reasons that support your view. Conclusion; Introduction. Paragraph 1. Introduce the topic and give your opinion. Say whether you agree or disagree with the statement or question. It can be a good idea to use a question to grab the reader's attention. Check the two examples below:

  12. Opinion Essay

    An opinion essay is a type of essay that presents the writer's personal viewpoint on a particular issue. It is a form of persuasive writing that aims to convince the reader of the validity of the writer's opinion. Students should clearly state their standpoint and provide supporting evidence to persuade the reader.

  13. What is an Opinion Essay? Explore its Structure, Key Differences

    An opinion essay is a type of essay in which students have to express their opinions on a topic. Their point of view is supported by relevant examples and justifications. An opinion essay helps you to present and argue your point of view logically. Therefore, you should be clear in expressing your viewpoint. The opinion essay's basic purpose is ...

  14. How To Write An Opinion Essay? Definition, Tips, And Examples

    Introduction, three body paragraphs, and a concluding paragraph. The introduction provides the main idea and introduces the essay's topic. Each body paragraph provides supporting the author's opinion. Furthermore, the author uses transition words, such as "Furthermore," "In Addition," and "In Conclusion.".

  15. What is Opinion Writing? Explanations and Examples

    Understanding opinion writing involves mastering the art of presenting subjective viewpoints with clarity, persuasion, and credibility. Here are some key takeaways: Opinion writing thrives on a distinct voice. Clearly articulating personal opinions is crucial. Backing opinions with credible evidence, facts, or examples strengthens arguments ...

  16. What is an essay?

    An essay is a focused piece of writing that explains, argues, describes, or narrates. In high school, you may have to write many different types of essays to develop your writing skills. Academic essays at college level are usually argumentative: you develop a clear thesis about your topic and make a case for your position using evidence ...

  17. How to Write a Definition Essay: Outline, Examples

    However, instead of being limited to a simple dictionary definition, which normally takes a few phrases, such an essay contains an extended definition that includes additional details, such as examples, descriptions, an analysis of this term and other related ones, etc. Importantly, such essays present your personal opinion about corresponding ...

  18. What is Opinion Writing? How Can One Write An Opinion Essay

    Opinion essay documents should be written in a formal style. The opinion paragraph should be written in an organised way in the opinion essay writing. Your thesis of the essay should be well thought and it tells some brief information about the opinion essay. An opinion based essay should be written in formal language like hence, however and ...

  19. Opinion Definition & Meaning

    opinion: [noun] a view, judgment, or appraisal formed in the mind about a particular matter. approval, esteem.

  20. What is Opinion Writing for Kids? A Beginner's Guide

    Opinion writing is a type of writing in which you express your opinion or point of view on a topic. It is a way of sharing your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs about a particular subject. In opinion writing, you are not just presenting facts, but also your own perspective on the topic. You can use evidence and examples to support your opinion ...

  21. Definition Essay

    An explanatory definition essay is a type of expository essay. It aims to explain a complex term or concept in a way that is easy to understand for the reader. The writer breaks down the term or concept into simpler parts and provides examples and analogies to help readers understand it better.

  22. Essay Definition & Meaning

    The meaning of ESSAY is an analytic or interpretative literary composition usually dealing with its subject from a limited or personal point of view. ... Share the Definition of essay on Twitter Twitter. Kids Definition. essay. 1 of 2 ... a usually short written work giving a personal view or opinion on a subject. More from Merriam-Webster on ...

  23. Debates on the nature of artificial general intelligence

    The term "artificial general intelligence" (AGI) has become ubiquitous in current discourse around AI. OpenAI states that its mission is "to ensure that artificial general intelligence benefits all of humanity." DeepMind's company vision statement notes that "artificial general intelligence…has the potential to drive one of the greatest transformations in history."

  24. The UK Is Using a New Definition of "Extremism" to ...

    At that time, voters supported a ceasefire in a ratio of three to one. By February, the gap of opinion was even starker, with those who called for a ceasefire outnumbering advocates of military action by five to one. (Sixty-six percent of people supported a ceasefire, just 13 percent were opposed to that measure.)

  25. Fascism has changed, but it is not dead

    As the late Umberto Eco, humanist and author of The Name of the Rose, noted in an essay on "Ur-Fascism" published in the New York Review of Books in 1995, "Hitler's Mein Kampf is a ...

  26. Opinion

    Ms. Bernstein is a playwright, a writing coach and an essayist in Brooklyn. "I just can't think of anything," my student said. After 10 years of teaching college essay writing, I was ...