How to Agree and Disagree in English
Agreeing and disagreeing is a natural part of all communication, no matter the language. There are many ways to do it, some soft and others more direct.
This article will introduce different ways to agree and disagree politely in English. Pay special attention to the tones and contexts of the examples below to make sure you use these phrases appropriately.
Agreeing
I agree
This is the most basic expression for agreement. However, it can sound a bit formal in casual situations.
A
I like this one better.
B
I agree.
Me too / I think so too
These are both simple ways to say that you share someone else’s opinion. But be careful not to confuse “Me too” with “So do I,” which is used a bit differently.
A
I think the food at this restaurant is delicious.
B
Me too. I really like the fish.
A
I think the food at this restaurant is delicious.
B
I think so too. Especially the fish.
My thoughts exactly
Use this expression when someone says something that perfectly matches what you were thinking.
A
We should leave now if we want to be on time.
B
My thoughts exactly. Let's go.
I concur
This is a formal expression that you're unlikely to hear in most casual conversations, but it’s definitely an effective way to show agreement.
I concur with the director’s assessment of the situation.
It can also be used as a simple response.
A
We think this is the best course of action.
B
I concur. Shall we get started?
Absolutely
This is a strong way to express agreement. It’s best used in informal situations.
A
This place has the best pizza in the city.
B
Absolutely. I’ve told everyone I know about it.
You took the words right out of my mouth
This is a very casual phrase for showing complete agreement.
A
That meeting was a disaster.
B
You took the words right out of my mouth. What can we do better next time?
Thank you!
Finally, here is one more informal expression for strong agreement.
This pronunciation is usually stressed because it includes the nuance that the speaker has been waiting a long time to hear someone share their opinion.
A
I don’t understand why people love his books so much. They’re just OK to me.
B
Thank you! I've been saying that for years.
Disagreeing
Disagreeing usually requires more politeness and sensitivity than agreeing, so the following expressions should be used with extra care.
I disagree
The simplest way to disagree is quite bold, so save it for when you want to make a strong statement.
A
I think Charles is the best candidate for the job.
B
I disagree. He only has half of the skills we're looking for.
I don’t think so
This expression is also quite strong. However, it can be softened if it comes after a long “Well~”
Well, I don’t think so. There's probably a better way to solve this problem.
I’m not so sure (about that)
“I’m not so sure” is a pretty safe way to express disagreement. You can increase the politeness if you follow it with an alternative suggestion.
- Take the train? I’m not so sure. We’d probably get better value if we took the bus.
Really?
Here is another short expression that is best saved for conversations with friends. In addition to disagreement, it also includes the nuance of surprise, as if you can’t believe what was just said.
A
I like the sequel more than the first movie.
B
Really? You’re the only person I know who feels that way.
That’s an interesting opinion
The nuance in this phrase is that someone has presented an idea you hadn't thought about. It can suggest that you don’t agree or that you're open to other ideas.
"Opinion” can be switched with “point,” “idea” or something similar.
That's an interesting opinion. I hadn't thought of it that way before.
Wrap-up
Having multiple ways to express your ideas — including agreement and disagreement — will increase your fluency and make your conversations more interesting.
If you'd like practice using any of the expressions introduced here, book a lesson with an Engoo tutor and try them out in a friendly chat!
