1.
public opinion
The collective views and attitudes of the general public on a particular issue.
世論調査を行う。
To conduct a public opinion poll.
世論が政策に影響を与える。
Public opinion influences policy.
世論を味方につける。
To win public opinion to one's side.
テレビの報道が世論に大きな影響を与えている。
Television reporting has a large influence on public opinion.
新しい法律に対する世論は賛成と反対に大きく分かれており、政府は慎重に対応する必要がある。
Public opinion on the new law is deeply divided between support and opposition, and the government needs to respond carefully.
世論 means public opinion — the general views held by the population on social or political issues. The kanji break down as 世 (world/society) + 論 (opinion/discourse).
PRONUNCIATION:
Both せろん and よろん are accepted readings. Historically, よろん referred to 輿論 (informed public opinion), while せろん was used for 世論 (popular sentiment), but this distinction has largely been lost in modern usage.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 世論調査: public opinion poll/survey
- 世論を喚起する: to arouse public opinion
- 世論の支持: public support
- 世論が高まる: public opinion grows stronger
- 世論を動かす: to sway public opinion
CONTEXT:
Frequently used in news, politics, and social discussions. 世論調査 (opinion polls) are regularly conducted and reported by media.