Being able to express your opinion clearly and respectfully is an essential communication skill in both spoken and written English—especially at B2 level and beyond. Whether you're participating in a group discussion, writing an argumentative email, or debating a topic in class, you need the right vocabulary, tone, and structure to get your message across effectively.
In this unit, you’ll explore how to state your viewpoint, respond to others’ opinions, and build logical, well-supported arguments. You’ll learn how to agree or disagree politely, express partial agreement, and use persuasive techniques in debates and discussions. Finally, you’ll apply these skills to written formats, including short opinion essays and professional emails. By the end of the unit, you’ll feel more confident sharing your ideas—and defending them—with clarity and tact.
21.1 USEFUL STRUCTURES TO EXPRESS OPINIONS
Objective:
To learn and practice a variety of sentence structures and expressions that allow you to express opinions clearly, confidently, and appropriately in both spoken and written English.
🧠 WHY EXPRESSING OPINIONS MATTERS
At B2 level, you're expected to:
• Justify your ideas
• Express agreement or disagreement
• Compare viewpoints
• Use appropriate register (formal/informal)
• Adapt your tone depending on audience and context
This section gives you the linguistic tools to do all of that effectively.
🔹 BASIC OPINION STRUCTURES
These are common, clear, and suitable for most contexts.
Structure Example
I think (that)… I think it’s a great idea.
In my opinion… In my opinion, the film was too long.
I believe (that)… I believe this solution will work.
I feel (that)… I feel we should try a different approach.
I would say (that)… I’d say this option is more practical.
🔸 EXPRESSING STRONGER OPINIONS
Use these when you want to emphasize your viewpoint.
Structure Example
I’m convinced that… I’m convinced that remote work increases productivity.
It seems to me that… It seems to me that he was being honest.
There’s no doubt that… There’s no doubt that this is a major issue.
I’m absolutely sure that… I’m absolutely sure that we’re doing the right thing.
I strongly believe that… I strongly believe that education should be free.
✅ These are great for formal writing, debates, or persuasive arguments.
🔄 PHRASES FOR BALANCED OR TENTATIVE OPINIONS
When you want to soften your opinion or leave room for other views.
Structure Example
I tend to think… I tend to think it depends on the situation.
As far as I’m concerned… As far as I’m concerned, it’s not a problem.
To some extent… To some extent, I agree with you.
I guess / I suppose… I suppose that’s true in some cases.
It could be argued that… It could be argued that social media does more harm than good.
✅ These are useful in discussions, email exchanges, or opinion essays.
⚠ COMMON MISTAKES
Mistake Correction Why?
I think so the movie was bad. I think the movie was bad. No “so” after “I think”
In my opinion is that this is unfair. In my opinion, this is unfair. Don't add “is that”
I believe to this idea. I believe in this idea. or I believe this idea. Depends on meaning: “believe in” vs. “believe that”
🛠️ PRACTICE SUGGESTIONS
Try responding to opinion prompts like:
• Is social media helpful or harmful?
• Should schools eliminate homework?
• Do we rely too much on technology?
Use at least 3 different expressions in each answer.
💬 EXAMPLE DIALOG
Ana: What did you think of the new policy?
Max: Well, I think it’s unnecessary.
Ana: Really? I tend to think it might actually help the team stay focused.
Max: I see your point, but I’m convinced it’ll just add stress.
Ana: Hmm. I suppose it depends on how it’s implemented.
21.2 AGREEING AND DISAGREEING POLITELY
Objective:
To learn how to express agreement and disagreement in a polite, natural, and constructive way, both in casual conversation and more formal discussions.
🧠 WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?
At B2 level, it's not enough to say YES or NO. You should be able to:
• Express your agreement with emphasis or reservation
• Disagree diplomatically
• Use expressions that show respect for other views
• Support your response with reasons or examples
✔ EXPRESSING AGREEMENT
Structure Example
I agree (with you / with that). I agree with your point about recycling.
That’s true. / That’s a good point. That’s true. We need to act faster.
I think so too. Yes, I think so too.
You’re right (about that). You’re right—it’s not fair.
I couldn’t agree more. It’s absolutely essential. I couldn’t agree more.
Absolutely / Exactly / Definitely Absolutely! That’s exactly what I meant.
✅ These are appropriate in both informal and semi-formal conversations.
🧭 EXPRESSING PARTIAL AGREEMENT
Structure Example
I agree to some extent, but… I agree to some extent, but there are other factors too.
That may be true, but… That may be true, but it’s not the full story.
I see what you mean, but… I see what you mean, but I have a different opinion.
You have a point, but… You have a point, but I’m not sure it applies here.
✅ These structures help you show respect without fully committing to the idea.
❌ DISAGREEING POLITELY
Structure Example
I’m not sure I agree (with that). I’m not sure I agree with that interpretation.
I see it differently. Personally, I see it differently.
I don’t quite agree. I don’t quite agree with your conclusion.
I understand your point, but… I understand your point, but I think we need more data.
That’s one way to look at it, but… That’s one way to look at it, but here’s another perspective.
Actually, I think… Actually, I think it might have the opposite effect.
✅ These expressions avoid sounding confrontational, and are great for debates, meetings, or group discussions.
⚠ COMMON MISTAKES
Mistake Correction Why?
I’m agree with you. I agree with you. “Agree” is not used with “am”
I don’t think so you’re right. I don’t think you’re right. Avoid adding “so”
I agree with that’s idea. I agree with that idea. No need for “’s” after “that”
💡 EXTRA TIP: TONE MATTERS!
Even the right words can sound rude if the tone is wrong. To disagree politely:
• Use a calm and respectful voice
• Show that you understand the other side
• Use softening expressions (maybe, perhaps, I wonder if…)
💬 EXAMPLE DIALOG
Julia: I think students should be allowed to use phones in class.
Sam: Hmm. I see your point, but I’m not sure I agree.
Julia: Why not?
Sam: Well, I agree they’re useful tools, but they can be a big distraction too.
Julia: That’s true. Maybe they could be used only for specific activities.
Sam: Now that, I could agree with.
21.3 EXPRESSING PARTIAL AGREEMENT AND CONTRAST
Objective:
To expand your ability to express nuanced opinions, especially when you partially agree or want to contrast ideas without rejecting them completely.
🧠 WHY USE PARTIAL AGREEMENT?
In real conversations, we often:
• Agree with some aspects but not others
• Acknowledge valid points while adding a different view
• Want to sound balanced and respectful in discussion
This is especially useful in debates, collaborative work, and opinion-based writing.
🔸 STRUCTURES FOR PARTIAL AGREEMENT
Structure Example
I agree to some extent… I agree to some extent, but it’s more complex than that.
I see what you mean, but… I see what you mean, but I don’t think that applies here.
That’s a fair point, but… That’s a fair point, but we also need to consider the cost.
You might be right, although… You might be right, although it’s hard to prove.
I agree with you up to a point… I agree with you up to a point, but I still have doubts.
It’s true that…, however… It’s true that prices are rising; however, demand is still strong.
✅ These expressions help you keep the conversation cooperative, even if you’re introducing contrast.
🔄 CONTRASTING TWO IDEAS IN A BALANCED WAY
You can also compare and contrast ideas directly:
Connector Example
While… / Whereas… While online learning is flexible, it lacks face-to-face interaction.
On the one hand…, on the other hand… On the one hand, public transport is cheap. On the other hand, it’s often unreliable.
Even though… / Although… Although it’s risky, I think it’s worth trying.
Despite / In spite of… Despite the challenges, we succeeded.
✅ Use these to show both sides of an argument, especially in writing or formal discussions.
⚠ COMMON MISTAKES
Mistake Correction Why?
I agree some but not all. I agree to some extent. Use the full phrase
In one hand... On the one hand... Set expression
Although he’s tired, but he keeps working. Although he’s tired, he keeps working. Don’t use “but” with “although”
🛠 PRACTICE IDEAS
Try expressing partial agreement in response to prompts like:
• “All jobs will be automated in the future.”
• “Online education is better than traditional schooling.”
• “Social media has only negative effects.”
Aim to use:
• 1 phrase of partial agreement
• 1 contrast structure
• 1 example or justification
💬 EXAMPLE DIALOG
Mark: Everyone should work from home permanently.
Lena: I agree with you up to a point. It works well for some people.
Mark: It saves time and money.
Lena: True, but not all jobs can be done remotely.
Mark: That’s fair.
Lena: And while flexibility is great, some people miss the office environment.
21.4 BUILDING ARGUMENTS: LINKING IDEAS LOGICALLY
Objective:
To develop the ability to construct clear and coherent arguments, using logical connectors and transitions that improve structure and flow in both spoken and written English.
🧠 WHY LOGICAL STRUCTURE MATTERS
When presenting an opinion or defending a point of view, especially at B2 level, your argument must be:
• Organized: Each idea follows logically from the last
• Coherent: Ideas are connected clearly
• Persuasive: Transitions guide the listener/reader through your reasoning
Whether you're writing an email, giving a presentation, or debating in class, this skill is essential.
🔗 COMMON LINKING DEVICES BY FUNCTION
Purpose Connector Example
Adding points also, in addition, moreover, furthermore Furthermore, it’s important to consider the long-term effects.
Giving examples for example, for instance, such as Many countries, such as Norway and Sweden, have already adopted this approach.
Explaining reason because, since, as, due to Since the data is incomplete, we can't draw conclusions yet.
Showing result so, therefore, as a result, thus The prices increased, so fewer people bought tickets.
Expressing contrast but, however, although, nevertheless Although it was risky, they went ahead with the plan.
Emphasizing in fact, indeed, actually Indeed, this has been a long-standing issue.
Summarizing in conclusion, to sum up, overall To sum up, the proposal has strong potential.
✅ Choose connectors that match the tone and context—some are more formal than others.
🛠 STRUCTURING A SIMPLE ARGUMENT (MODEL)
Claim: I believe students should have less homework.
Reason: First, it gives them more time to rest and recharge.
Evidence: For instance, studies show that students with less homework sleep more and perform better.
Counterpoint: Of course, some argue that homework reinforces learning.
Refutation: However, too much can cause stress and even reduce motivation.
Conclusion: Therefore, limiting homework could lead to better results overall.
✅ This structure mirrors formal writing and helps in speaking tasks like presentations or discussions.
⚠ COMMON MISTAKES
Mistake Correction Why?
Is important because the results. It is important because of the results. “Because” needs a full clause; “because of” + noun
Also is good idea. It’s also a good idea. Word order error
However he didn’t go. However, he didn’t go. Add a comma after “however” when it starts a sentence
For example, dogs are loyal, cats independent. For example, dogs are loyal, and cats are independent. Add a conjunction to complete the idea
🧩 PRACTICE ACTIVITY
Choose a topic like:
• Are smartphones making people less social?
• Should university be free?
• Is it better to live in the city or the countryside?
Write or say:
1. A clear opinion
2. One or two supporting reasons
3. A connector to add an example
4. A contrast or counterargument
5. A logical conclusion
💬 EXAMPLE DIALOG
Nina: I really think social media does more harm than good.
Ben: I agree it has some downsides. However, it also helps people stay in touch.
Nina: True, but I’d argue that it creates pressure and unrealistic expectations.
Ben: That’s a fair point. In fact, I read an article about that last week.
Nina: So, maybe the key is balance—not too much, not too little.
21.5 GIVING EXAMPLES, REASONS, AND EVIDENCE
Objective:
To improve your ability to support your opinions and arguments by using clear and appropriate expressions for giving examples, justifying ideas, and providing evidence in both spoken and written English.
🧠 WHY SUPPORT MATTERS
At B2 level, it’s not enough to say “I THINK…” — you’re expected to back up your opinions with:
• Examples
• Personal experiences
• Facts and data
• Logical reasoning
This shows that your ideas are well-developed, credible, and convincing.
🔹 GIVING EXAMPLES
Expression Example
for example / for instance For example, many students learn better with visual aids.
such as Countries such as Germany and Denmark have adopted this model.
like Some cities, like Barcelona, are reducing car use.
to illustrate this To illustrate this, consider how much plastic we use daily.
a good example of this is… A good example of this is remote work during the pandemic.
✅ Use these to make your point concrete and relatable.
🔸 GIVING REASONS
Expression Example
because / since / as I chose this course because it fits my schedule.
due to / owing to Flights were cancelled due to the storm.
the reason why is… The reason why people oppose the idea is cost.
that’s why… I didn’t have time—that’s why I didn’t finish.
✅ “Because” starts a clause; “due to” is followed by a noun.
🔍 CITING EVIDENCE (FACTS, DATA, STUDIES)
Expression Example
studies show that… Studies show that regular sleep improves memory.
research suggests that… Research suggests that flexible work boosts morale.
according to… According to the latest survey, over 60% agree.
statistics indicate that… Statistics indicate that car use is decreasing.
it has been proven that… It has been proven that sugar affects concentration.
✅ Use these expressions especially in essays, reports, or formal speech.
🛠 BUILDING A STRONG PARAGRAPH (MODEL)
I believe that exercise should be part of every school day.
For example, students could start with 20 minutes of movement.
This is important because it improves focus and energy levels.
In fact, studies show that active students perform better academically.
That’s why many schools are now integrating fitness breaks into lessons.
⚠ COMMON MISTAKES
Mistake Correction Why?
Because of students are tired… Because students are tired… “Because of” must be followed by a noun
For example, is good. For example, it is good. Every clause needs a subject
Due the lack of time… Due to the lack of time… “Due to” is the correct phrase
💬 EXAMPLE DIALOG
Sara: I think remote work is the future.
Leo: I agree. For instance, my productivity improved a lot at home.
Sara: Same here. Also, research shows that people feel less stressed.
Leo: Exactly. That’s why more companies are switching to hybrid models.
21.6 POLITE DISAGREEMENT AND PERSUASION
Objective:
To express disagreement in a respectful and persuasive way, using language that maintains a positive tone while helping you influence others' opinions or decisions.
🤝 WHY POLITENESS AND PERSUASION MATTER
Disagreement is natural—but at B2 level, it's essential to:
• Avoid sounding rude or aggressive
• Show respect for the other person’s point of view
• Use language that invites dialogue, not confrontation
• Present your own ideas persuasively and calmly
This is especially important in discussions, debates, meetings, and opinion writing.
🔹 SOFTENING DISAGREEMENT
These expressions help you disagree without creating tension.
Expression Example
I see your point, but… I see your point, but I think there’s another factor to consider.
I understand where you’re coming from, but… I understand where you’re coming from, but I still disagree.
That’s a valid point, however… That’s a valid point. However, we also need to think long term.
I’m not sure I agree… I’m not sure I agree with that approach.
You might be right, but… You might be right, but the risks are too high.
I tend to disagree… I tend to disagree, especially in this kind of situation.
✅ These phrases show that you’re listening—and thinking critically.
🔸 PERSUADING OTHERS DIPLOMATICALLY
Use these to influence someone’s view or lead them toward your perspective.
Expression Example
Have you considered…? Have you considered trying a different method?
Wouldn’t it be better if…? Wouldn’t it be better if we waited a bit longer?
What if we…? What if we combined both ideas?
I’d suggest… / I’d recommend… I’d suggest using a simpler solution.
Perhaps we could… Perhaps we could test both options before deciding.
Another way to look at it is… Another way to look at it is that change brings opportunity.
✅ These forms are especially useful in collaborative settings or group decision-making.
🛠 EXPRESSING DISAGREEMENT + PERSUASION (COMBINED)
I see what you’re saying, but I think there’s a better alternative.
What if we gave it one more week and then decided?
You make a good point, although I still believe option B is safer.
Use a 2-step structure:
• Acknowledge their view
• Gently introduce your own opinion
⚠ COMMON MISTAKES
Mistake Correction Why?
I don’t like your idea. I’m not sure I agree with your idea. Sounds too direct—needs softening
You are wrong. I see it differently. Avoid judgmental tone
This is better. Perhaps this would be a better option. Use modal for suggestion
💬 EXAMPLE DIALOG
Liam: We should launch the product next week.
Amira: I understand your urgency, but I think we need more testing first.
Liam: But the deadline’s close.
Amira: True, but wouldn’t it be better to delay slightly and avoid major issues later?
Liam: You might be right. Let’s take one more day to finalize everything.
21.7 DEBATING: MANAGING INTERRUPTIONS AND TURN-TAKING
Objective:
To learn how to manage speaking time, handle interruptions respectfully, and use key phrases to take, give, or hold the floor during debates and discussions.
🔁 WHY IS TURN-TAKING IMPORTANT?
In group discussions or debates, fluent communication isn’t just about speaking well—it’s about:
• Knowing when to speak
• Knowing how to interrupt or respond
• Helping the discussion flow smoothly
These skills are vital for classroom debates, business meetings, and exam speaking tasks.
🗣 TAKING THE FLOOR (STARTING YOUR TURN)
Use these expressions to enter the discussion or introduce a point.
Expression Example
Can I just say something here? Can I just say something here before we move on?
If I may… If I may, I’d like to respond to that.
I’d like to add something. I’d like to add something to what you said.
Sorry to interrupt, but… Sorry to interrupt, but I think that’s not quite accurate.
Just a quick point… Just a quick point on what she said earlier.
I have a slightly different view. I have a slightly different view I’d like to share.
✅ These are polite but assertive.
✋ HOLDING THE FLOOR (CONTINUING WHEN INTERRUPTED)
These help you politely keep speaking when someone jumps in.
Expression Example
If I could just finish… If I could just finish my thought…
Let me finish and then I’ll listen to you. Let me finish and then I’ll be happy to hear your view.
Just a moment—I'll explain. Just a moment—I’ll explain what I mean.
I’m getting to that… I’m getting to that point—just one second.
✅ Use a calm tone to avoid sounding defensive.
🔄 YIELDING THE FLOOR (LETTING OTHERS SPEAK)
Use these to show that you’re done speaking or inviting others to contribute.
Expression Example
That’s all from me. That’s all from me for now—go ahead.
What do you think? What do you think about this idea?
I’d like to hear your thoughts. I’d like to hear your thoughts on that.
Feel free to jump in. Feel free to jump in if you have something to add.
✅ Encourages collaboration and keeps the tone respectful.
🧠 INTERRUPTING POLITELY
Interruptions can happen—but they should be respectful and purposeful.
Expression Example
Sorry, can I just clarify something? Sorry, can I just clarify something you mentioned?
If I may interrupt for a second… If I may interrupt for a second, there’s a small correction.
Could I add something here? Could I add something before we move on?
Just to respond to that… Just to respond to your last point—
✅ Use interruptions to clarify, ask questions, or signal disagreement without sounding aggressive.
⚠ COMMON MISTAKES
Mistake Correction Why?
I want to say! Can I just say something? Too direct—needs softening
Shut up, let me finish! If I could just finish… Rude tone—use polite phrasing
Now me talk. I’d like to add something. Grammar and register need adjusting
💬 EXAMPLE DIALOG
Zara: I think we should invest more in local shops.
Leo: Sorry to interrupt, but how would we fund that?
Zara: If I could just finish, I’ll explain the cost plan.
Leo: Sure, go ahead.
Zara: Thanks. So, as I was saying…
21.8 OPINION-BASED WRITING (EMAILS, SHORT ESSAYS)
Objective:
To develop the skills needed to write clear, structured, and persuasive texts expressing opinions—such as short essays, emails, or forum posts—using appropriate language, connectors, and tone.
📝 TEXT TYPES YOU MIGHT WRITE
• Emails giving your view on a suggestion or request
• Opinion paragraphs or short essays for assignments or exams
• Forum posts or comments responding to a question or debate
Each of these requires:
• A clear opinion
• Justification (reasons, examples, evidence)
• Logical structure
• The right tone (formal/informal depending on context)
🧱 COMMON STRUCTURE FOR OPINION WRITING
Introduction – State your opinion clearly
Body – Justify your opinion with 2–3 reasons or examples
Conclusion – Summarize or restate your point of view
✅ Stick to one main idea per paragraph
✅ Use connectors to guide the reader
🔗 USEFUL CONNECTORS AND PHRASES
Function Example Phrases
Introducing opinion In my opinion, I believe that, I think that…
Adding reasons Firstly, in addition, moreover, another reason is…
Giving examples For example, for instance, such as…
Showing contrast However, on the other hand, although…
Concluding To sum up, in conclusion, all in all…
🧠 TONE: FORMAL VS. INFORMAL
Situation Tone Example
Email to a colleague Semi-formal I think we should reconsider the deadline.
Essay for a test Formal In my view, online learning offers many advantages.
Forum comment Neutral/informal I totally agree—it’s a much better way to do it.
✅ Match your vocabulary and sentence structure to the purpose and audience.
⚠ COMMON MISTAKES
Mistake Correction Why?
I think so it’s a good idea. I think it’s a good idea. “So” is unnecessary
Because I like it, so I choose it. Because I like it, I chose it. Don’t use both “because” and “so”
Is important to say what you think. It is important to say what you think. Subject missing
🛠 WRITING PRACTICE PROMPT
Topic: Do you think students should be allowed to use mobile phones in class?
Write 80–120 words. Use:
• One strong opinion
• At least two reasons or examples
• One contrast or counterargument
• A clear conclusion
💬 SAMPLE PARAGRAPH (STUDENT EXAMPLE)
I believe students should be allowed to use phones in class for learning purposes. Firstly, phones give access to useful tools like dictionaries and educational apps. In addition, students can use them to check information instantly. However, some people argue that phones are a distraction. That’s true, but if used responsibly, they can support learning. To sum up, I think phones can be a valuable resource if monitored properly.
21.9 UNIT 21 REVIEW
🧠 UNIT SUMMARY
In this unit, you’ve developed the ability to express, support, and challenge opinions effectively—both in writing and speaking. These skills are essential for real-life discussions, exams, work communication, and social interaction in English.
🔄 KEY TAKEAWAYS BY SECTION
21.1 Useful Structures to Express Opinions
• I THINK… / I BELIEVE THAT… / IN MY OPINION…
• Use both strong and soft expressions depending on context
21.2 Agreeing and Disagreeing Politely
• Agreement: THAT’S TRUE. / I COMPLETELY AGREE.
• Disagreement: I SEE IT DIFFERENTLY. / I’M NOT SURE I AGREE.
• Use polite language to maintain a respectful tone
21.3 Expressing Partial Agreement and Contrast
• I AGREE TO SOME EXTENT, BUT…
• Contrast: WHILE…, ON THE OTHER HAND… / ALTHOUGH…
• Useful for balanced discussions or debates
21.4 Building Arguments: Linking Ideas Logically
• Use connectors: FURTHERMORE, HOWEVER, THEREFORE
• Structure your ideas clearly: opinion → reason → support → conclusion
21.5 Giving Examples, Reasons, and Evidence
• Support your points with EXAMPLES (E.G. FOR EXAMPLE, SUCH AS)
• Justify with BECAUSE, DUE TO, THE REASON IS…
• Refer to evidence: RESEARCH SHOWS THAT…
21.6 Polite Disagreement and Persuasion
• Disagree tactfully: THAT’S A VALID POINT, BUT…
• Persuade with: HAVE YOU CONSIDERED…? / WOULDN’T IT BE BETTER IF…?
21.7 Debating: Managing Interruptions and Turn-Taking
• Take the floor: CAN I JUST ADD SOMETHING?
• Hold your turn: IF I COULD JUST FINISH…
• Invite others: WHAT DO YOU THINK?
21.8 Opinion-Based Writing
• Structure: Introduction → Reasons/Examples → Conclusion
• Keep tone formal or semi-formal depending on context
✅ SELF-CHECK: CAN YOU…
• ✔ Express your opinion clearly using different structures?
• ✔ Agree or disagree respectfully in a conversation?
• ✔ Build a simple argument with logical connectors and support?
• ✔ Write or speak about a social topic for 1–2 minutes with structure?
• ✔ Use polite expressions to interrupt, clarify, and persuade?
⚠ COMMON MISTAKES
Mistake Correction Why?
Send me the info ASAP. Could you please send me the information as soon as possible? Too direct and abrupt
Hey, I want a refund. Dear Sir/Madam, I would like to request a refund. Informal and impolite for a formal request
I look forward to meet you. I look forward to meeting you. After “look forward to”, use -ing form
✍ FINAL REFLECTION PROMPT
Choose one of the following topics and write or speak about it using at least:
• One opinion phrase
• One example
• One contrast
• One conclusion phrase
Topics:
• Should students be graded on behavior?
• Is it better to live alone or with others?
• Are influencers a good role model for young people?
Example starter:
In my opinion, students should be graded only on academic performance. For example, someone quiet may still be an excellent learner. However, behavior is part of teamwork, so I understand why it’s included. All in all, I think academics should be the main focus.