Expressing Opinions and Agreeing/Disagreeing in English
Master the art of expressing opinions and agreeing/disagreeing in English. Learn key phrases, examples, and tips to improve your communication skills.

Expressing opinions and effectively agreeing or disagreeing is an essential skill in spoken English. Whether you're gearing up for a professional meeting, preparing for an English language exam, or simply looking to enhance your fluency, mastering this aspect of communication can greatly boost your confidence.
This detailed guide is tailored for students aiming to make significant strides in spoken English. It includes practical strategies, expressions, and techniques to clearly articulate opinions, agree or disagree courteously, and keep conversations engaging. If you’re taking online English speaking courses, this guide will perfectly support your learning journey.
The Importance of Expressing Opinions
Sharing your opinions enables you to actively engage in discussions, debates, and conversations. It highlights your ability to:
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Communicate Clearly: Express your thoughts in a manner that others can easily grasp.
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Engage in Dialogue: Contribute meaningfully to keep conversations lively.
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Display Confidence: Assertively share your opinions, showcasing your fluency and command of the language.
Being able to agree or disagree in a polite manner enriches your conversational skills, making your interactions more vibrant and engaging.
Key Elements of Expressing Opinions
To express opinions effectively in English, focus on these core elements:
1. Clarity
Be concise and avoid ambiguity. State your opinion directly and clearly.
Example: “I believe the education system should prioritize practical skills more.”
2. Politeness
Politeness is essential, especially when disagreeing. Use softening phrases to ensure your response is respectful.
Example: “I understand your viewpoint, but I have a slightly different perspective.”
3. Structure
Organize your thoughts logically. A well-structured opinion often includes:
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A clear statement of your view.
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An explanation or reason for your view.
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Examples or evidence to support your view.
Example:
“I think remote work is very beneficial because it offers flexibility. For example, employees can save time on commuting and concentrate better on their tasks.”
Common Phrases for Expressing Opinions
1. Starting Your Opinion
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“I think…”
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“In my opinion…”
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“From my perspective…”
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“I believe…”
2. Strong Opinions
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“I’m convinced that…”
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“It’s clear to me that…”
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“I strongly feel that…”
3. Tentative Opinions
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“I tend to think that…”
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“It seems to me that…”
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“As far as I can tell…”
Practicing these phrases in spoken English classes online can help you build confidence and fluency in using them.
Agreeing effectively means reinforcing the speaker’s point while adding your own perspective or supporting evidence.
1. Simple Agreements
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“I agree.”
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“That’s true.”
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“Exactly.”
2. Adding Support
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“I completely agree with you, especially because…”
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“That’s a good point, and I’d like to add…”
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“You’re absolutely right; in fact, I’ve experienced something similar.”
3. Partial Agreements
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“I agree with you to some extent, but…”
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“That’s true, but I also think…”
Example:
“I agree that social media connects people, but I also believe it can sometimes lead to isolation.”
Interactive exercises in online English speaking classes often include scenarios for practicing agreements in real-time.
Disagreeing politely is a valuable skill. It’s important to convey your point without sounding rude or dismissive.
1. Polite Disagreement
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“I see your point, but…”
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“I understand what you’re saying, but I have a different view.”
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“That’s an interesting perspective, but I’m not sure I agree.”
2. Formal Disagreement
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“With all due respect, I have to disagree.”
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“I beg to differ.”
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“I’m afraid I don’t see it that way.”
3. Direct Disagreement (Use with caution)
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“I don’t agree with that.”
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“I disagree.”
Example:
“I understand that remote work is convenient, but I think it can reduce team collaboration and creativity.”
Tips for Practicing Opinions and Agreements
1. Role-Playing Exercises
Simulate discussions on various topics, such as technology, education, or current events. Role-playing activities in spoken English classes online are excellent for this.
2. Debate Common Topics
Pick a debate topic and practice expressing your opinions, agreeing, and disagreeing. For instance:
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Should uniforms be mandatory in schools?
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Is social media more harmful than beneficial?
3. Watch English Discussions
Observe how native speakers express opinions in interviews, talk shows, or debates. Take note of phrases.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overusing “I think”
Using “I think” too frequently can make your speech sound repetitive. Instead, try varying your expressions to present your opinions.
Example: Rather than saying, “I think this is good,” you could say: “In my view, this is a positive development.”
2. Being Too Direct
Steer clear of blunt disagreements such as “You’re wrong.” Opt for gentler phrases to maintain a courteous tone in discussions.
3. Speaking Without Structure
If your thoughts are disorganized, it can confuse your audience. Always aim to present your ideas in a clear and logical manner.
Tip: Consider enrolling in online English speaking classes for structured guidance and immediate feedback.
Practical Exercises for Mastery
1. Daily Journaling
Each day, jot down your thoughts on various topics. Then, practice articulating them aloud using different expressions.
2. Feedback Sessions
Record yourself sharing your opinions, then listen to the playback or ask for feedback from a tutor in your online spoken English classes.
3. Topic Card Practice
Make flashcards with debate topics or questions. Choose one and practice articulating your opinion while considering different viewpoints.
Sample Scenarios for Practice
Scenario 1: Agreeing
Topic: “Social media has improved communication.”
“I wholeheartedly agree because platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook facilitate instant communication, even over long distances.”
Scenario 2: Disagreeing
Topic: “Students should only focus on academics.”
“I understand your perspective, but I believe that extracurricular activities are just as vital for personal growth.”
Final Thoughts
Effectively expressing opinions and navigating agreements or disagreements in English is a skill that takes practice and confidence. By mastering the right phrases, organizing your thoughts, and engaging in real-life practice, you can greatly enhance your spoken English.
Whether you’re studying independently or taking online spoken English classes, consistent practice and constructive feedback are crucial. Begin implementing these strategies today.
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