Opinions

• English is tedious.
  • In this phrase, the adjective ‘tedious’ is completely subjective. Some people may agree with this statement, but others would disagree – so this idea is a belief and can be argued with.

• Michael Jackson was the best musician of all time.
  • In this phrase, the adjective ‘best’ is completely subjective. Some people may agree with this statement, but others would disagree – therefore, this idea is a belief and can be argued with.

• The ugliest sea creature is the manatee.
  • In this phrase, the adjective ‘ugliest’ is completely subjective. Some people may agree with this statement, but others would disagree – therefore, this idea is a belief and can be argued with.

The superlative ‘ugliest’ suggests that you believe that nothing could be uglier than the manatee – it also reinforces the idea that this is factual, although it is an opinion.

• Opinions can be presented as if they are facts by writing them as statements which seem true – for example, using the verb ‘is’ implies that you are giving a fact, even when you are not.

• Use opinions to give your own impression of a topic or subject – the correct choice of adjectives really helps to build up an image or idea for your reader.

• Your choice of vocabulary is vital in creating your language devices effectively.