What is the difference between "fact" and "opinion"?

The distinction between "fact" and "opinion" is fundamental in understanding how we interpret information. A fact is a statement that can be proven true or false based on evidence or reality. For example, "The Earth orbits the Sun" is a fact because it can be verified through scientific observation. In contrast, an opinion is a personal belief or judgment that may not be substantiated by evidence. It is subjective and varies from person to person. For instance, saying "Chocolate ice cream is the best flavor" expresses a personal preference rather than an objective truth. This understanding is critical in fields such as writing, critical thinking, and media literacy, where distinguishing between factual information and personal opinions influences how information is communicated and interpreted.

The accuracy of the other response options is limited. The idea that both facts and opinions are equally valid and interchangeable overlooks the concrete nature of facts. Suggesting that facts are always subjective while opinions are objective misrepresents their definitions and roles, as facts remain constant regardless of individual belief. Finally, claiming that facts are merely opinions that are widely accepted undermines the objective foundation of facts and fails to recognize that not all widely held beliefs are based on truth.