Lesson 2 of 6

Opinions and Discussion

Express views, support them and disagree respectfully.

14 minLevel B2–C1

Advanced conversation means discussing ideas: news, work decisions, culture, values. Americans value clear opinions supported by reasons, and they also value respect when people disagree. This lesson gives you the structure and phrases for intelligent discussion.

LearnThe key ideas

Opinion structure: Point, Reason, Example

"I think remote work is better for most people (point), because it saves hours of commuting (reason). For example, I save about ten hours a week since I started working from home (example)."

Discussion phrases

FunctionPhrases
OpinionI feel like... / Personally, I think... / If you ask me...
Strong opinionI'm convinced that... / There's no doubt that...
Partial agreementI agree up to a point, but... / That's true, but...
DisagreementI see it a bit differently. / I'm not so sure about that.
Asking for opinionsWhat's your take on...? / How do you feel about...?
ConcedingFair enough. / That's a good point, I hadn't thought of that.

ListenListen and repeat

  • What's your take on social media?Asking someone's opinion.
  • Personally, I think it does more harm than good.Giving an opinion.
  • I agree up to a point, but it depends on how you use it.Partial agreement.
  • Fair enough, that's a good point.Conceding gracefully.

AvoidCommon mistakes

Opinions with no reasons✓ Point + reason + exampleReasons make you persuasive.
"You're wrong."✓ "I see it a bit differently."Respectful disagreement keeps discussions friendly.
Never admitting a good point✓ "Fair enough."Conceding shows maturity.

SpeakShadowing practice

Press Listen, then repeat straight away, copying the speed, rhythm and tone. Say each sentence three times, then record yourself.

  • If you ask me, learning English online is the most effective way.
  • I see what you mean, but I think practice with real people matters more.
  • That's a fair point. I hadn't thought of it that way.
Record the sentences above and compare with the audio.

CheckQuick quiz

1. "What's your take on...?" means:

2. Most respectful disagreement:

3. A persuasive opinion includes:

PracticeToday's speaking task

Choose a topic (remote work, social media, city vs village life). Record a 1-minute opinion using point, reason, example, then respond to an opposing view.

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