Giving your opinion LearnEnglish Teens British Council

Introduction

This tutorial is designed to help you express your opinions effectively in English. Whether you are participating in a discussion, writing an essay, or just chatting with friends, knowing how to articulate your thoughts is essential. This guide will provide you with the tools and phrases you need to share your views confidently.

Step 1: Understanding Opinion Phrases

To express your opinion clearly, familiarize yourself with common phrases used to convey your thoughts. Here are some useful expressions:

• I think that...
• In my opinion...
• I believe...
• It seems to me that...
• From my perspective...

Practical Tip

Practice using these phrases in different contexts to become comfortable with them. For example, try discussing a favorite movie or a current event using these expressions.

Step 2: Structuring Your Opinion

When sharing your opinion, structure your thoughts to make them clear and persuasive. Follow this simple format:

1. State your opinion clearly.

   • Example: "I believe that social media has a negative impact on society."

2. Provide a reason for your opinion.

   • Example: "This is because it can lead to decreased face-to-face interactions."

3. Give an example or evidence.

   • Example: "For instance, studies show that excessive use of social media can increase feelings of loneliness."

Common Pitfall

Avoid making sweeping generalizations without backing them up. Always aim to support your opinion with solid reasoning and examples to strengthen your argument.

Step 3: Agreeing and Disagreeing Politely

In discussions, it's important to know how to agree or disagree respectfully. Here are some phrases to use:

Agreeing

• I completely agree with you.
• That's a great point.
• I see what you mean.

Disagreeing

• I see your point, but I think...
• That's interesting, however...
• I understand, but I feel that...

Practical Tip

Use these expressions to practice agreeing and disagreeing in conversations with friends or classmates. This will help you navigate discussions more smoothly.

Step 4: Practicing Your Skills

To improve your ability to give opinions, practice regularly. Here are some methods:

• Join a conversation club: Engage with others in discussions on various topics.
• Write a journal: Regularly write down your thoughts on different subjects.
• Watch English videos: After watching, summarize your opinion about the content.

Real-World Application

Consider discussing topics relevant to your interests, such as music, movies, or current events, to make practice enjoyable and relatable.

Conclusion

Expressing your opinion is a vital skill in English communication. By using opinion phrases, structuring your arguments, practicing polite agreement and disagreement, and engaging in regular practice, you can enhance your conversational abilities. Start incorporating these techniques into your daily interactions to become more confident in sharing your thoughts. Happy practicing!