🇬🇧 🥳 Social · Can talk about almost anything (B2+)

🤝 Disagreeing politely

🎯 Disagree, give reasons and find a compromise without sounding rude

Use the usual 50-minute plan: warm-up → key phrases → challenges → role-play → discussion → wrap-up. Share this page on Zoom so the student can see the phrases, but keep "Your card" to yourself.

💬 Warm-up questions

Do you avoid arguments or enjoy them?
When did you last disagree with someone?

🔑 Key phrases

I see your point, but…おっしゃることはわかりますが…
I'm not sure I agree with that.それにはあまり賛成できません。
Have you considered…?〜は考えましたか？
That's a fair point.もっともな意見ですね。
Let's agree to disagree.意見が違うということで。
Maybe we could meet halfway.間をとってはどうでしょう。

📚 Useful words

compromise — 妥協
perspective — 視点
valid — 妥当な
counterargument — 反論
common ground — 共通点
tactful — 気配りのある

⚡ Speaking challenges

Disagree with: 'Cats are better than dogs.'
Give a counterargument to: 'Homework should be banned.'
Say 'I disagree' in 4 softer ways.
Find common ground on a topic you disagree on.

🎭 Role-play

Planning a group trip: one wants the beach, one wants the mountains.

🧑‍🎓 Student's card

Disagree with the tutor's plan politely, give 3 reasons, then reach a compromise.

🧑‍🏫 Your card (tutor)

Be stubborn but fair. Accept a compromise only if the student acknowledges your points.

🌀 Twist (halfway through): A third option appears (a city trip). Both must reconsider.

🗣️ Discussion questions

Is direct disagreement rude in Japanese culture?
How do you disagree with a boss?
Can arguments make relationships stronger?

📌 Homework

Pick a topic you feel strongly about and write both sides fairly強い意見のあるテーマを選び、両方の立場を公平に書く