Which statement BEST distinguishes a fact from an opinion?

Which statement BEST distinguishes a fact from an opinion?

• A. Facts can be proven; opinions are judgments or beliefs that can be supported but are not proven by data.
• B. Opinions can be proven with data; facts are beliefs not proven by data.
• C. Facts are always true; opinions are always false.
• D. Facts are biased; opinions are objective.

Answer: (A)

Understanding the difference between a fact and an opinion hinges on proof with evidence. A fact is a statement that can be verified through data, measurements, or observable reality. An opinion is a belief or judgment about something that reflects a person’s viewpoint and may be supported by reasons or data, but isn’t proven in the same definitive way as a fact. The best choice captures this: facts can be proven, while opinions are beliefs that can be supported but aren’t proven by data. The other statements mix up proof, truth, and bias—opinions aren’t proven with data, facts aren’t simply beliefs, and facts aren’t inherently biased while opinions are subjective.

Understanding the difference between a fact and an opinion hinges on proof with evidence. A fact is a statement that can be verified through data, measurements, or observable reality. An opinion is a belief or judgment about something that reflects a person’s viewpoint and may be supported by reasons or data, but isn’t proven in the same definitive way as a fact. The best choice captures this: facts can be proven, while opinions are beliefs that can be supported but aren’t proven by data. The other statements mix up proof, truth, and bias—opinions aren’t proven with data, facts aren’t simply beliefs, and facts aren’t inherently biased while opinions are subjective.