Fact vs Opinion: How to Spot the Difference in News

Every day you read headlines, quotes and analysis. Which parts are verifiable facts and which are opinions? This tag collects explainers and examples from our coverage so you can judge claims faster and smarter.

Quick checklist for readers

Look for sources. Facts point to data, documents, or named witnesses. Opinions use adjectives, predictions, or unnamed sources.

Check verbs. Facts use words like "said," "reported," "confirmed," or "showed." Opinion pieces often use "argue," "believe," "claim," or "feel."

Find numbers and context. A statistic without context can mislead. A source that notes methodology or a date makes a number more reliable.

Watch for attribution. Direct quotes are someone's view; background context or analysis is the writer's interpretation.

Separate reporting from commentary. News reports should stick to verifiable events. Columns and editorials are meant to persuade.

Examples from recent coverage

When Philippe Clement called the Rangers boardroom "total chaos," that quote is a fact — he said it. The interpretation that the board caused the team's decline is an opinion. We mark such stories so you can see the difference between what a source said and how reporters explain it.

Apple's plan to add anti-glare tech to iPhone 17 Pro started as a supply-chain rumour. Reports that Apple "will" use a specific material are opinion until Apple confirms the deal. Look for company statements or regulatory filings.

President Zelenskyy saying exclusion from a NATO summit gives Putin a symbolic win is a political claim. The quote itself is a fact; whether it is true is a judgment that needs context: NATO rules, recent diplomacy and public reactions.

Mexico’s tourism growth is supported by visitor numbers and government data. That is a fact when numbers are cited. Claims that growth makes Mexico "the best destination" are opinions or marketing language.

How to use this tag

Use this tag when you want articles that explain the line between facts and interpretation. Expect quick tips, marked quotes, and links to original documents where possible.

When reading, ask three quick questions: Who said this? How can it be checked? Is this a statement of fact or of belief?

If you see a bold claim without attribution or data, treat it as an opinion until proven otherwise. If a story links to reports or official statements, give it more weight.

We aim to make our reporting clear and verifiable. If you spot something unclear in a story, tell us — we will look into the sourcing and update the piece when needed.

Try these quick checks: open the linked source before sharing, search for the same claim on two independent outlets, check the publication date and author, and look for raw documents like reports or court filings. Beware of headlines that claim certainty when the body shows only a quote. Bookmark this tag to return when you want a clear breakdown between what can be proved and what’s opinion. Stay curious and check twice and share responsibly please.