preconceived opinion

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preconceived opinion

A student sets aside a preconceived opinion to listen to a classmate's presentation.

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.

preconceived opinion

A student sets aside a preconceived opinion to listen to a classmate's presentation.

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