In general, an opinion is a judgment, viewpoint, or statement that is not conclusive.

It may deal
with subjective matters in which there is no conclusive finding. What distinguishes fact from
opinion is that facts are more likely to be verifiable, i.e. can be agreed to by the consensus of
experts. An example is: "United States of America was involved in the Vietnam War" versus
"United States of America was right to get involved in the Vietnam War". An opinion may be
supported by facts and principles, in which case it becomes an argument. Different people may
draw opposing conclusions (opinions) even if they agree on the same set of facts. Opinions rarely
change without new arguments being presented. It can be reasoned that one opinion is better
supported by the facts than another by analyzing the supporting arguments.[1] In casual use, the
term opinion may be the result of a person's perspective, understanding, particular feelings,
beliefs, and desires. It may refer to unsubstantiated information, in contrast to knowledge and
fact.

Collective or professional opinions are defined as meeting a higher standard to substantiate the
opinion. (see below)