Translation guide
The English word "opinion" covers a range of expressions in Japanese, from formal statements to casual personal views. The best choice depends on context, politeness, and whether you're stating a belief, giving feedback, or asking for someone's view.
Expressing what you think or believe about something, often in conversation or informal writing.
The most common and neutral word for "opinion." Used in both formal and informal settings for personal views, suggestions, or feedback.
私の意見では、この計画はうまくいかないと思います。
In my opinion, this plan won't work.
皆さんの意見を聞かせてください。
Please tell me your opinions.
Literally "thought" or "idea," often used to mean "opinion" in a more personal, reflective sense. Slightly softer than 意見.
それについてのあなたの考えを教えてください。
Please tell me your thoughts on that.
The most natural way to state an opinion in Japanese: "I think that..." Use after a clause in plain form.
この映画は面白いと思う。
I think this movie is interesting.
彼は来ないと思います。
I don't think he will come.
Stating an opinion in a meeting, report, or official context, often as an expert or authority.
Formal term for "opinion" or "view," often used in business, academic, or legal contexts. Implies a considered, official stance.
専門家の見解を伺いたいです。
I would like to hear the expert's opinion.
当社の見解を発表しました。
We announced our company's opinion.
Very formal, often used in written reports or medical/legal contexts. Means "findings" or "professional opinion."
Requesting another person's view or feedback in conversation.
The most common way to ask "What do you think?" or "What's your opinion?"
このデザインについてどう思いますか？
What do you think about this design?
Polite request: "Please let me hear your opinion." Suitable for meetings or when seeking feedback.
この提案について、意見を聞かせてください。
Please give me your opinion on this proposal.
Referring to what the general public or a group thinks.
"Public opinion." Used in news, politics, and surveys. Both readings are common, but よろん is more traditional.
世論調査の結果が発表された。
The results of the public opinion poll were announced.
Literally "voice," but often used to mean "opinion" or "feedback" from a group, especially in phrases like 消費者の声 (consumer opinions).
お客様の声を商品開発に活かしています。
We use customer opinions in product development.
Expressing that someone has a different view, or objecting to an idea.
"Objection" or "differing opinion." Often used in formal debate or when politely disagreeing.
その点については異論があります。
I have a differing opinion on that point.
While 意見 is the direct translation, Japanese often prefers softer expressions like 〜と思う or 考え when stating personal views. Using 意見 in casual talk can sound overly formal or argumentative.
私はそうは思いません。
I don't think so. (more natural than 私の意見は違います)
In Japanese, you rarely need to say "in my opinion" explicitly. Simply stating your thought with 〜と思う is enough, as the speaker is assumed to be the source unless specified otherwise.
この件についてどう思いますか？
What's your opinion on this matter?
私の意見では、彼は間違っています。
In my opinion, he is wrong.
誰にでも自分の意見を持つ権利がある。
Everyone has a right to their own opinion.
According to the doctor's opinion, surgery is necessary.
"Opposing opinion." More direct than 異論, used when someone is clearly against something.
会議では反対意見も出た。
Opposing opinions were also voiced at the meeting.