Taking part in seminar discussions.
Participating in a discussion is a valuable skill, especially in academic or professional settings. Engaging effectively requires you to express your opinions clearly, listen to others, and respond in a way that keeps the conversation constructive and flowing. Whether you're discussing a specific topic in a classroom, debating in a meeting, or sharing views in a social setting, understanding how to use language for expressing opinions, agreeing, disagreeing, and seeking input from others can make your interactions more impactful.
Giving Your Opinion
When sharing your perspective, it’s essential to communicate your views clearly and confidently. Try some of these phrases to express your opinion:
"I think that..."
"For me,..."
"I would say that..."
"My view is that…"
For instance, you might say, "For me, this solution could really work if we all contribute," or "I think that studying abroad is an incredible opportunity for personal growth." Starting your statement with phrases like these can help frame your point, inviting others to consider your perspective thoughtfully.
Agreeing with Others
If you agree with someone, you can show your support and even build on their idea. Here are some ways to express agreement:
"I think that’s right, and…"
"I agree with that."
"I think you’re correct, but…"
For example, if a classmate says, "Online learning offers flexibility for students," you might respond, "I agree with that, and I think it also allows students to learn at their own pace." Using these phrases can make your agreement sound genuine and thoughtful.
Asking for Opinions
Part of a balanced discussion is inviting others to share their views. Asking questions to encourage other voices shows that you’re interested in what they think and creates space for different perspectives. Here are some ways to ask for opinions:
"Do you agree?"
"What do you think?"
"What about you?"
If you're discussing climate change solutions, you might ask, "Do you agree with the idea of investing in renewable energy, or do you think there are better options?" This can encourage others to contribute, leading to a richer conversation.
Disagreeing Respectfully
Disagreeing doesn’t have to lead to conflict. By using language that respectfully communicates your point, you can keep discussions productive even when you have a different view. Try these phrases to express disagreement:
"No, I really don’t agree."
"I don’t agree with that at all."
"I wouldn’t say that."
For instance, if someone suggests that exams are the best way to evaluate students, you could reply, "I understand your point, but I wouldn’t say that exams are the only way to assess learning. Projects and presentations might be just as effective." Adding a respectful tone and an explanation keeps the conversation constructive.
Recognising Opinions
In discussions, acknowledging someone’s opinion before moving on to your own helps build rapport. You can do this with phrases like:
"Ok, I understand that."
"I see where you’re coming from."
This shows that you’ve listened, even if you’re about to add a different perspective. It can be as simple as saying, "Ok, I understand that exams can be useful, but I still think projects allow for a broader skillset to develop."
Using Reporting Verbs to Convey Opinions
When summarizing or reporting someone else’s views, you can use reporting verbs to attribute ideas to them clearly and accurately. Common reporting verbs include “say,” “think,” and “believe.”
For example:
"Some people think that all nurses should be required to have a university degree."
"The government believes that doctors and nurses would be able to help more people if they spoke a foreign language."
Using reporting verbs lets you convey others' views without adding your personal opinion, making it especially helpful for summarizing in objective contexts like research or reporting.
Recap
By using these phrases, you can better navigate discussions and make them more productive and enjoyable. Whether you’re sharing your thoughts, agreeing, disagreeing, or inviting others to join the conversation, these expressions provide a foundation for open and respectful communication. Practicing these skills in everyday conversations can make you a more engaging and effective communicator in any setting.