Definition

Noun: A belief or judgment formed in advance of obtaining sufficient information or experience; a notion held before encountering the relevant facts or evidence.

Usage

This term describes an opinion that exists prior to and independent of actual investigation or direct knowledge. It often carries a negative connotation, implying bias or a lack of objectivity, as the opinion is not based on adequate evidence.

Examples

• He approached the interview with a preconceived opinion about the candidate's abilities, which wasn't fair.
• It's important for scientists to avoid preconceived opinions that might influence the outcome of their experiments.
• Her preconceived opinion of the city, formed only from movies, was completely wrong once she visited.

Advanced Usage

• "To have a preconceived opinion (about/of someone/something)": This is the most common construction, indicating the subject of the bias.
  • I realized I had a preconceived opinion of modern art before even seeing the exhibition.
• The term is frequently used in contexts discussing fairness, research, journalism, and open-mindedness, highlighting the barrier that such pre-formed judgments create.

Variants and Related Words

• Preconception (n): Often used interchangeably with "preconceived opinion," it is a slightly more common and concise synonym.
• Prejudice (n): A stronger, more negative term implying a preconceived opinion that is and hostile, often directed against a person or group.
• Bias (n): An inclination or prejudice for or against something, which can lead to or stem from a preconceived opinion.
• Presupposition (n): Something assumed beforehand, often as a basis for reasoning; it can be more neutral than "preconceived opinion."

Synonyms

Preconception, prejudgment, presumption, presupposition.

Antonyms

Open-mindedness, impartiality, objectivity, neutrality.

Noun

1. an opinion formed beforehand without adequate evidence
   • he did not even try to confirm his preconceptions