C1noun1K

Poll

UK /["/pəʊl/"]/US /["/pəʊl/"]/

Definition

the process of questioning people who are representative of a larger group in order to get information about the general opinion

In simple words: A method to find out what people think, often by asking questions.

Examples

  • The latest poll shows that the incumbent candidate is leading by 10 points.
  • They conducted a poll to determine public opinion on the new policy.
  • In the village, the poll was held to elect the local council members.
  • The poll revealed unexpected support for the environmental initiative.
  • The poll indicated a significant shift in voter preferences compared to last year.
  • The election poll was open for two weeks so everyone could participate.
  • After the poll, the data were analyzed carefully to predict the election outcome.

Usage notes

Use 'poll' when discussing surveys or public opinions. It is appropriate in both formal and informal contexts, like news articles or casual conversations. Avoid using it for informal questions that don’t involve structured responses.

Grammar pattern

poll + object

Memory hint

Think of 'poll' like 'polling for votes' in an election to remember it relates to gathering opinions.

Collocations

  • local
  • national
  • nationwide
  • carry out
  • conduct
  • do
  • confirm something
  • find something
  • indicate something
  • numbers
  • rating
  • results
  • in the polls
  • be ahead in the polls
  • be behind in the polls
  • a lead in the polls
  • presidential
  • go to
  • open
  • close
  • at the polls

Synonyms

  • survey
  • ballot

Antonyms

  • consensus
  • agreement

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'pole' — 'poll' is about opinions, 'pole' is a long stick.
  • Using 'polls' as a verb incorrectly — it should be used primarily as a noun.
  • Misunderstanding the context — not all surveys are called polls.