Business English Giving Opinions and Clarifying

GIVING OPINIONS, AGREEING, AND DISAGREEING

Part One: Giving Opinions

Every day, we give input in a variety of situations. Sometimes, it is based on facts, but more often, we give an opinion. Since facts and opinions are very different, it is often important to make it clear for our listeners when we are stating facts and when we are giving opinions.

I feel strongly (that) . . . (emphatic)

I strongly believe (that) . . . (emphatic)

I’d like to point out that . . . (emphatic)

Don’t forget that ...(moderate)

I think that . . (moderate)

As I see it ... ( moderate and dimplomatic)

As far as I’m concerned . . .

From a (marketing/short-term) perspective . . . (contextualizes opinion)

Wouldn’t you say that . . . ? (anticipates conflicting opinions)

Don’t you agree that . . . ? (seeks to find/coerce agreement)

I’d just like to say that I think that  . . . (diminishes importance of opinion)

:

When it’s a particular or unique situation:

In a case like this... (to distinguish this from a general perspective)

In a situation like this...

In this situation

In this particular instance

When you want to be diplomatic or avoid taking responsibility for a stance:Some might argue that . . .

Many would say that ...

I’ve heard that . . .

What would you say to those who believe that . . . ?

CLARIFYING OPINIONS

When you want others to explain more clearly...

I don’t follow

What do you mean?

I don’t see what you’re getting at.

I’m not sure what point you’re making (not “what your point is” – this is rude)

What exactly are you trying to tell me? (you are not communicating clearly)

When you need to be very clear...

That’s not exactly what I mean . . .

Actually, what I meant was ...

Let me put it another way . . .

Sorry, I didn’t explain that very clearly. What I’m saying is . . . Let me clarify . . .

Exercise One: Practice Giving Opinions

Briefly discuss the following topics, practicing the opinion language outlined.

A: How do you feel about big dogs?

B: Well, if you ask me, big dogs are a nuisance. (give a somewhat vague answer) A: Why do you say that? (request clarification)

B: Well, they eat a lot of food and make messes in the streets and parks. (rationale)

1. Education in this country

2. Brazil’s immigration policies

3. Workplace meetings

4. Healthcare in Brazil

5. Taxation system in Brazil

6. Identity theft

7. Commuting in the Sao Paulo

8. President Dilma’s response to recent economic events

9. Balancing a business and a personal life

10. Money as an incentive

Part Two: Agreeing and Disagreeing

Here are some ways of agreeing or disagreeing with someone’s opinion. Note that you need to be very polite when disagreeing with someone – even those you know quite well. Review the list in groups and think of other phrases you or your acquaintances use. Categorize them as appropriate.

As we go through the list, you may wish to copy those you prefer in the middle column.

Agreement	Less Certain / Diplomatic	I see your point . . . I suppose . . . Okay . . . Yee..esss.... I feel that’s partly correct... That’s a good point . . . I believe you’re right. I agree. That’s how I feel too. I think so too. I don’t think so either. That’s exactly how I see it! Exactly! I totally agree! Absolutely! Right!
	Neutral
	Very Certain / Positive
Disagreement	Less Certain / Diplomatic	I’m not sure I agree. I’m afraid I don’t agree. Yes, that’s true, but Well, you have a point there, but Perhaps, but don’t you think that I don’t think that’s true/right. I don’t agree I don’t agree with you on that Absolutely not! I totally disagree! We’re on different pages there. You must be joking! You can’t be serious!
	Neutral
	Very Certain / Positive Obnoxious

Exercise Two: Practice Agreeing and Disagreeing

Part A: You are so right!

Work in pairs, taking turns. Make a statement about a topic below. Your partner should

agree and

Example:

Give an explanation.

A: This activity is fun, isn’t it?

B: Definitely! It’s also very useful.

Choose your own topics

a. The Stock Market

b. Banks

c. Jobs/employment

d. Company benefits

e. People Skilss

f. the English language

g. Any subject of your choice.

Part B: Are You Kidding?

Work in pairs, taking turns. Make a statement about a topic below. Your partner should disagree and give an explanation.

Example: A: Nice house, don’t you think? B: You must be joking!

a. unemployment

b. holidays

c. retirement

d. unions

e. raises

g. any subject of your choice.

Exercise Three: Putting it all Together

Discuss the following:

1.     In Brazil, many professional athletes sign contracts that promise to pay them millions of dollars per year. This is in addition to the huge payments they receive from acting as the spokesperson for various large companies. Some people think these athletes deserve every cent that they earn while others think they receive far too much money. What is your opinion on this topic?

2.     Many cities all over the world try very hard to be chosen as the site of the Summer Olympics. Competing for and providing adequate facilities for these international events involve spending a tremendous amount of money. Many people think it’s a better idea to spend this money on the homeless, the hungry, and other disadvantaged groups. What do you think about this issue?

3.     People should never work in the same company as their spouses.

4.     Newspapers have a responsibility to report all the facts, no matter who may be hurt.

5.     When people who are on government assistance have more children, the government should cut off their benefits.