The difference between facts and opinions can be summarized as follows:
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Facts: These are statements that can be verified and are based on objective reality. They can be confirmed through evidence and are universally accepted regardless of individual beliefs or feelings. For example, "The Earth orbits the Sun" is a fact that can be confirmed through scientific observation.
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Opinions: These are subjective statements that reflect personal beliefs, feelings, or thoughts. Opinions cannot be universally verified as they are based on individual perspectives. For example, "Chocolate ice cream is the best flavor" is an opinion that varies from person to person.
Based on the options you provided:
- Opinions provide information: This can be partially true, as opinions can convey perspectives, but they are not objective information like facts.
- Facts can be confirmed: This statement is true and accurately reflects the nature of facts.
- Facts state beliefs or feelings: This is not correct; facts are objective and do not express beliefs or feelings.
- Opinions are true: This is misleading; opinions can be held with conviction, but they are not necessarily "true" in the objective sense.
Thus, the most accurate distinction is that facts can be confirmed, while opinions reflect personal beliefs or feelings and are subjective.
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