Vocabulary: Idioms & Fixed Expressions (B2) - Lesson 4: Fixed Expressions for Discourse Management

Lesson 4: Fixed Expressions for Discourse Management

Controlling the Flow of Conversation

Great speakers don't just know words; they know how to manage a conversation. Discourse management¹ is like being a traffic controller for your dialogue. It involves using fixed expressions for signposting²—giving signals to your listener about where the conversation is going next. Are you adding a point? Changing the subject? Disagreeing politely? Using these phrases will make your English sound much more natural, organized, and easy to follow.

Key Expressions by Function

Let's group these useful phrases by what they do.

1. To Add Another Point

• Expressions: On top of that, ... / As well as that, ... / Not only that, but...
• Application: Use these to add another piece of information to strengthen your argument.
• Example: The tour was very crowded. On top of that, the bus was 30 minutes late.

2. To Change the Subject

• Expressions: By the way, ... / Anyway, ... / Speaking of which, ...
• Application: Use "By the way" to introduce a completely new topic. Use "Speaking of which" to transition³ from something that was just mentioned.
• Example: I finished the report. By the way, are you going to the party on Saturday?
• Example: "I need to get my moto repaired." / "Speaking of which, do you know a good mechanic in Kampot?"

3. To Give Your Opinion

• Expressions: As far as I'm concerned, ... / From my point of view, ... / The way I see it, ...
• Application: These are excellent phrases to clearly and politely state your personal opinion.
• Example: As far as I'm concerned, the new coffee shop near the Old Market is the best in town.

4. To Politely Disagree

• Expressions: I see your point, but... / I take your point, but... / I understand what you're saying, however...
• Application: This is a crucial skill. You first show respect for the other person's opinion before giving your own, different view.
• Example: I see your point that a motorbike is faster, but I think a bicycle is better for enjoying the countryside.

In Conversation

Srey Pov and Piseth are planning a staff wellness day.

Srey Pov: From my point of view, we should organize a trip to the waterfalls at Teuk Chhou.

Piseth: I see your point, it's beautiful there. However, it can get very crowded on weekends. What about a relaxing day at a resort instead?

Srey Pov: That's a good alternative. Some resorts have a swimming pool and a restaurant. On top of that, we wouldn't have to worry about packing our own lunch.

Piseth: Exactly. It would be much easier to organize. It will be a great day for the team. By the way, did you send the email to confirm the budget with our manager?

Srey Pov: Oh, thanks for reminding me! I'll do that right now.

quiz Check Your Understanding

1. You want to add another negative point. "The hotel was in a bad location. _________, it was very noisy."

• a) As far as I'm concerned
• b) On top of that
• c) Speaking of which

Click to see the answer

Answer: b) On top of that

2. You want to politely disagree with someone. Which is the best phrase to start your sentence?

• a) The way I see it...
• b) Not only that, but...
• c) I take your point, but...

Click to see the answer

Answer: c) I take your point, but...

3. You are talking about work, and you want to introduce a new, unrelated topic about a movie you saw. You should say...

• a) By the way...
• b) Speaking of which...
• c) On top of that...

Click to see the answer

Answer: a) By the way...

edit Your Mission

1. Fill in the Gaps: In your notebook, write a phrase from the lesson that best completes this sentence: "_____________ , I think learning English is difficult, but also very rewarding."
2. Polite Disagreement: Your friend says, "Learning online is much better than learning in a classroom." Write a one-sentence reply that shows you understand their point, but you have a different opinion. Start with "I see your point, but...".
3. Manage a Conversation: Plan a short conversation with a friend. Your mission is to use ONE phrase to state your opinion and ONE phrase to change the subject during the talk. Pay attention to how it feels.

book Lesson Glossary

1. Discourse Management (noun phrase) - Khmer: ការគ្រប់គ្រងសន្ទនា - The skill of organizing and controlling a conversation. ↩
2. Signposting (noun) - Khmer: ការដាក់សញ្ញាណែនាំ - Using words and phrases to signal to a listener what you are about to say. ↩
3. Transition (noun) - Khmer: ការផ្លាស់ប្តូរ - The process of changing from one subject or stage to another. ↩