Reading Theme:
Poll: Definition, Usage & Common Examples (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：public opinion survey (poll)
poll
/poʊl/
n./v.
a survey where many people are asked the same question to find out what most people think about a topic.
public opinion survey
➕
/ˈpʌblɪk əˈpɪnjən ˈsɜːrveɪ/
n./v.
A method of collecting data by asking the same question to a large group of people to understand prevailing views.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Middle English 'polle' meaning 'head', referring to counting people, as in a poll tax or headcount.
💡 Mnemonic
Think of 'poll' as a 'head count' for gathering people's opinions.
📖 Example
The latest poll shows that over 60% of students prefer online study groups.
This example demonstrates how a poll reveals statistical preferences among a group.
🔗 Collocations
opinion poll – a survey designed to measure public opinion on a specific issue
exit poll – a survey of voters taken immediately after they leave polling stations
poll results – the outcomes or data obtained from a poll
🔄 Synonyms
survey (n.) – a general examination or investigation of opinions or behavior
questionnaire (n.) – a set of written questions used to gather information
census (n.) – an official count or survey of a population
🌱 Derivatives
📖 Cultural Story
Originally meant 'head' in Middle English, used for counting people for taxes or votes. Evolved to denote surveys and elections, key in modern democracy.
Meaning 2：to conduct a survey (poll)
poll
/poʊl/
n./v.
to ask many people the same question and collect their answers in order to understand public opinion.
to conduct a survey
➕
/tə kənˈdʌkt ə ˈsɜːrveɪ/
n./v.
The action of asking a group of people questions systematically to collect data on their opinions or behaviors.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
The student union decided to poll all members about their interests for the upcoming cultural festival.
In this case, the student union is actively gathering opinions from members through a survey.
🔗 Collocations
poll the audience – to ask the audience questions to gauge their reaction or opinion
poll members – to survey the members of a group or organization
poll frequently – to conduct surveys on a regular basis
Wordbook
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