Authoritative opinion refers to a viewpoint or judgment that carries great expertise, credibility, and influence within a particular field or domain. It represents an expert's assessment or evaluation that holds significant weight and is generally perceived as trustworthy and reliable by others in the discipline.
An authoritative opinion is typically formed by individuals who possess extensive knowledge, experience, and expertise in a specific subject matter. These experts are widely recognized for their accomplishments, qualifications, and contributions to the field, thereby establishing their authority. Their opinions are often supported by empirical evidence, thorough research, and a comprehensive understanding of the topic.
The influence of an authoritative opinion lies in its ability to direct and shape the thoughts, actions, and beliefs of others. It can guide decision-making processes, influence public policy, or fuel discussions and debates. Authoritative opinions are often published in reputable sources, such as scholarly journals or books, and are highly regarded within the academic and professional community.
However, it is important to note that authoritative opinions are not infallible and can be subject to scrutiny or disagreement. While they are respected and valued due to the expertise behind them, they should still be critically evaluated and considered alongside other perspectives in order to form well-informed judgments.
The term "authoritative opinion" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two words with their own origins.
1. Authoritative: The word "authoritative" comes from the Old French word "autoritatif" and the Latin word "authoritativus", both of which derive from the Latin word "auctoritas", meaning "authority" or "influence". This, in turn, is derived from the Latin word "auctor", meaning "originator" or "promoter". Hence, "authoritative" refers to something having the quality of being reliable, influential, or possessing expert knowledge on a subject.
2. Opinion: The word "opinion" originates from the Latin word "opinio", which refers to "thinking" or "conjecture". It entered Old English through Old French as "opinioun" before becoming "opinion" in Modern English.