Which practice best supports distinguishing fact from opinion in text?

• A. Count adjectives.
• B. Assume statements are true.
• C. Rely solely on emotional impact.
• D. Look for verifiability and check for evaluative language indicating opinion.

Answer: (D)

Distinguishing fact from opinion comes down to verifiability and language that shows judgment. Facts are statements that can be checked or proven with evidence, data, or reliable sources. Opinions express a belief, feeling, or value judgment about something and often use evaluative language that signals a subjective stance. To tell them apart, ask whether the claim could be verified or disproven with evidence, or whether it shows a personal stance rather than an objective fact. For example, “The earth orbits the sun” can be tested and confirmed, while “The sun is the most beautiful star” reflects a personal judgment. That’s why the best practice is to look for verifiability and for evaluative language indicating opinion. Counting adjectives isn’t a reliable method, assuming statements are true without checking evidence isn’t sound, and relying on emotional impact doesn't determine truth.