Learn the Top 10 Must-Know Expressions for Agreeing and Disagreeing in English

Summary

In this video, Alisha teaches essential phrases for agreeing and disagreeing in English. She covers various expressions such as 'exactly,' 'I don't agree,' 'maybe,' and 'I couldn't agree more,' offering practical examples for each. The lesson also explains softer disagreements like 'I don't think so,' as well as ways to politely express uncertainty with phrases like 'I guess so.' Alisha emphasizes the importance of using these expressions correctly to communicate effectively in casual or formal conversations. This guide helps learners navigate common situations where they need to express agreement or disagreement.

Takeaways

• 😀 Expressing full agreement: 'Exactly' is used to agree completely with someone's statement, e.g., 'Ramen is one of the best foods in the world. Exactly.'
• 😀 Expressing disagreement: 'I don't agree' is used when you have a different opinion, e.g., 'Soccer is the best sport. I don't agree, I think football is.'
• 😀 Using 'maybe' to express uncertainty: 'Maybe' is used when you're unsure or when you can't make a firm decision, e.g., 'I think it's going to rain tomorrow. Maybe.'
• 😀 Strong agreement: 'I couldn't agree with you more' is used to express full, enthusiastic agreement, e.g., 'Next week we should have a barbecue. I couldn't agree more!'
• 😀 Agreeing to disagree: 'Agree to disagree' is used when both people acknowledge they have different opinions but decide to move on without further discussion.
• 😀 Small agreement: 'You have a point there' is used when you partially agree with something someone has said after a longer discussion.
• 😀 Expressing shared feelings: 'That's exactly how I feel' is used when you want to express that your feelings or opinions align perfectly with someone else's.
• 😀 Soft disagreement: 'I don't think so' is a polite way of expressing disagreement, often in non-confrontational contexts, e.g., 'Are you going to the party this weekend? I don't think so.'
• 😀 Confirming correctness: 'You're right!' and 'That's right' are used to affirm that what someone else has said is correct or accurate.
• 😀 Indecisive agreement: 'I guess so' is a weak form of agreement, used when you're uncertain or don't have a strong opinion either way.

Q & A

What does the phrase 'exactly' indicate in a conversation?

'Exactly' is used to show complete agreement with what someone has said. It signifies that you agree 100% with their statement or opinion.

How should you respond if you don't agree with someone’s opinion?

If you don't agree, you can simply say 'I don't agree.' It's important to be prepared to share your own opinion after this statement.

What does the phrase 'maybe' express in a conversation?

'Maybe' is used when you're unsure or unable to make a firm decision. It shows uncertainty or a soft response to something.

Why should you use 'maybe' sparingly in conversations?

Using 'maybe' too often can make it sound like you can't make decisions, which could make you appear indecisive. It should be used selectively.

What does the expression 'I couldn't agree with you more' mean?

This phrase means you completely agree with the other person's opinion or statement. It's a way to emphasize total agreement.

In what situation would you use 'agree to disagree'?

'Agree to disagree' is used at the end of a discussion when two people have different opinions and are not going to change their views. It’s a way of accepting differences and moving on.

What is the meaning of the phrase 'You have a point there'?

'You have a point there' is used to show partial agreement with someone’s argument. It indicates that they’ve made a valid or reasonable point during a discussion.

How does the phrase 'that's exactly how I feel' function in a conversation?

'That's exactly how I feel' is used when you agree completely with someone else’s feelings or opinions. It communicates that your feelings are the same.

What does 'I don’t think so' imply when used in a conversation?

'I don’t think so' is a soft way of expressing disagreement. It can be used to negate something or to politely reject an idea or suggestion.

How would you use 'I guess so' in a conversation?

'I guess so' is used when you're not strongly committed to an agreement or decision. It conveys uncertainty or a lack of strong feelings either way.

What is the role of 'I'm afraid I disagree' in a conversation?

'I'm afraid I disagree' is a polite and formal way of expressing disagreement. The phrase 'I'm afraid' softens the disagreement, making it sound less harsh.

What does 'absolutely' mean in terms of agreement?

'Absolutely' is a strong, clear, and enthusiastic way of agreeing with someone. It means 'yes, definitely' or 'I completely agree'.