Learning How To Argue Effectively In Advanced English Conversation [Key Phrases]
Hello Advanced English Learners! Mary Daphne here, this is where we come together to boost your fluency, confidence, and clarity in English.
Having an argument in our second language can be very challenging. We might not have the vocabulary or the phrases to stand our ground or make our point. And when you add heightened emotions to the mix like anger, frustration, or fear, then forget about it.
Today we’re going through key phrases to argue effectively in advanced English conversation. Specifically, we’re looking at the language of a debate and how to engage in this type of argument with someone.
A debate is a structured argument that has different parts. For each section, I’ll be giving you different phrases you can use.
(Roll Title Sequence)
When you’re structuring your argument in a debate, there are six separate sections that will help you form your argument.
We have the hook, then the background, then the thesis, then reasons and evidence, then the counter-arguments, and finally the conclusion.
(1) Hook
The hook allows you to grab your audience’s attention. It gets them interested in what you’re about to say. The more captivating you make the hook, the more rapt your audience will be.
Let’s look at the phrases you can use for a hook:
Have you ever…?
Why…?
It started with …?
Many believe …?
What would …?
Have you ever wondered if one child could change the world?
(2) Background
The background sets up the scene for your audience. It gives them a frame of reference and a lens through which they can understand the context of your upcoming argument.
Let’s look at the phrases you can use for the background.
This quotation by…
In the year…
This question has been discussed by…
Some historians argue that…
Many scientists purport that...
This question has been discussed by some of the greatest minds of humanity.
(3) Thesis
So now that you’ve hooked the audience and established the context you can provide your thesis statement. The thesis is your main argument. It’s the main point you’re trying to make. This is the claim you’re making that you’re going to be backing up.
Let’s look at the phrases you can use for the thesis.
Even though…
The evidence shows that…
I believe that…
I’m arguing that...
Even though people tend to overlook the underdog, I’m arguing that we should be actively searching for the underdog.
(4) Reasons and Evidence
An argument is incomplete without reasons and evidence. You need to substantiate your claim. The evidence bolsters your arguments by giving it legs to stand on. It’s not just you who thinks this, you have good reason to think this because there is research and evidence to support this. You can use statistics, numbers, as well as facts to support your thesis.
A good rule of thumb is to have three reasons or evidence to support your thesis. You might not use all three but have at least three that you can use.
Let’s look at the phrases you can use for the background.
First of all…
This is also supported by…
Another reason for…
For example,...
This is also supported by research done by the Medical Faculty of the University of Pennsylvania from 2020.
(5) Counter Arguments
A good debate shows the other side of the argument as well. This is important because it shows you’ve done your homework, meaning the research. You know what the counterclaim is and can speak to it. Moreover, because you know the other side of the debate you can even disagree with it and back it up with facts.
Let’s look at the phrases you can use for the counter-arguments.
Yet some people argue that…
On the other hand…
It is true that…(however/but)...
Granted,...
Granted, not all children grow up in supportive environments to explore their creative genius but I’m here to tell you that education can change everything.
(6) Conclusion
This is where you wrap it up nicely. It gives you a chance to summarize your main point so that it can leave a lasting impression on the audience.
Let’s look at the phrases you can use for the conclusion.
Ultimately...
In conclusion…
Finally…
In the long run…
In summary…
Ultimately, if we can establish a foothold on Mars, it proves there is no limit to what we can achieve in Space.
So there you have it, Advanced English learners, the structure of your next argument. You can use these phrases the next time you’re casually debating topics with a friend or a colleague or even when you have a more structured argument to bring to light.
Thanks so much for joining me. Don’t forget to smash that like button, subscribe and turn on notifications so that you don’t miss any of our lessons or live streams. I’ll see you in the next one!
Bye for now 😊
About the Author and the Explearning Academy:
Mary Daphne is an expert in communication, executive skills and professional development. She is the founder of the Explearning Academy, a platform dedicated to helping individuals enhance their social fluency, boost their careers, and elevate their social game. Through immersive group coaching programs like the Executive Communication Lab and self-guided journeys, participants gain the social superpowers and career catapults they've been searching for. If you're ready to take your negotiation skills to the next level and connect with like-minded individuals, visit academy.explearning.co and explore the various plans available. Join the Explearning Academy community and unlock your full potential.
Thank you for reading! If you found this blog post valuable, don't forget subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow our podcast!
✨
🎁5-DAY FREE CHALLENGE 🎁
🎤 Sign up for my group coaching program🎤
🤩 Join our community 🤩 for a self-guided fully-supported journey
✨ Learn more about Explearning Academy ✨
🏆 Sign up for our 33-Day Executive Excellence Challenge 🏆
