Speaking: Interactive Communication B1 - Lesson 2: Agreeing & Disagreeing Politely 👍👎💬
Objective: To learn and practice common English phrases for agreeing and disagreeing politely in conversations, and to understand the importance of giving reasons when disagreeing.
- Learn various ways to express agreement (strong and mild).
- Learn polite phrases for expressing disagreement.
- Understand how to soften disagreements and provide reasons.
- Practice agreeing and disagreeing in different conversational scenarios.
In conversations, we often share opinions. It's natural that we won't always think the same way as others. Knowing how to agree and, importantly, how to disagree politely is crucial for good communication. Disagreeing politely helps you share your view without offending the other person, keeping the conversation respectful and constructive.
Phrases for Agreeing
When you share the same opinion as someone else, you can use these phrases:
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I agree. / I agree with you. (Simple and direct)
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Exactly! / Absolutely! / Definitely! (Strong agreement)
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That's true. / That's right.
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I think so too. / Me too. (More informal)
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I couldn't agree more. (Very strong agreement)
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You're absolutely right.
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That's a good point. (Agreeing with a specific point)
Phrases for Disagreeing Politely
When you have a different opinion, it's important to be polite. Often, we soften our disagreement or give a reason.
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I see your point, but... (Shows you understand their view first)
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I understand what you're saying, however...
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I'm not so sure about that. (Mild disagreement)
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I respectfully disagree. (More formal)
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That's one way to look at it, but I think...
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On the other hand, ... (Introducing a different perspective)
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To be honest, I have a slightly different opinion.
Giving a reason for disagreeing is very important:
Example: "I see your point about street food being cheap, but I'm not so sure it's always the healthiest option because sometimes the hygiene isn't great."
Practice Dialogues
Read these dialogues. Notice how the speakers agree and disagree politely. Practice with a partner.
Dialogue 1: Discussing a movie
Sokun: I thought that new action movie was fantastic! So much excitement.
Pisey: I agree! The special effects were amazing.
Sokun: Definitely! And the main actor was brilliant.
Pisey: Hmm, I see your point about him being popular, but to be honest, I found his acting a bit wooden in some scenes.
Sokun: Really? That's interesting. I thought he was quite convincing, especially in the fight scenes.
Dialogue 2: Talking about transportation in Phnom Penh
Bora: I think taking a Grab motorbike is the best way to get around Phnom Penh. It's fast and cheap.
Thida: That's true, it can be quick. However, I'm not so sure it's always the safest, especially during peak traffic. I prefer using a pass-app taxi if I can.
Bora: I understand what you're saying about safety. But taxis can be much more expensive and sometimes get stuck in traffic for longer.
Thida: That's a good point about the cost. I guess it depends on the situation. For longer distances, I definitely agree a taxi is pricier.
Activity 1: Agree or Disagree Politely
Read the statement. Decide if you agree or disagree. Then, write or say your response using a polite phrase and give a reason if you disagree. Click "Reveal Sample Response" for an example.
1. Statement: "Learning English online is more effective than in a traditional classroom."
Your response:
Disagree: "I see your point, but I think traditional classrooms offer more interaction with teachers and students."
2. Statement: "All young Cambodians should learn to code."
Your response:
Disagree: "I understand why people say that, however, I believe people should focus on skills they are passionate about, which might not always be coding."
3. Statement: "Durian is the most delicious fruit in the world."
Your response:
Disagree: "Well, that's one way to look at it, but to be honest, I find the smell a bit too strong for me. I prefer mangoes."
Activity 2: Role-Play Scenarios
Work with a partner. Choose a topic below. One person states an opinion. The other person agrees or disagrees politely, giving reasons. Continue the conversation for a few turns.
- Topic 1: The best type of music to listen to while studying.
- Topic 2: Whether it's better to live in a big city like Phnom Penh or in a smaller provincial town.
- Topic 3: The impact of social media on young people.
- Acknowledge the other person's point: Phrases like "I see your point" or "That's interesting" show you're listening, even if you disagree.
- Use softeners: Words like "I think," "maybe," "perhaps," "a little bit," "I'm not so sure" can make your disagreement sound less direct or aggressive.
- Focus on the idea, not the person: Say "I disagree with that idea" rather than "You're wrong."
- Give a reason: Explaining *why* you disagree can lead to a more productive discussion.
- Be respectful of different opinions: It's okay for people to have different views. The goal is to communicate effectively, not to always win an argument.
Summary: This lesson taught you how to agree (e.g., "I agree," "Exactly!") and disagree politely (e.g., "I see your point, but...", "I'm not so sure about that.") in English. Remember to give reasons when you disagree to keep the conversation respectful and clear. Practicing these phrases will help you express your opinions confidently.