HELPFUL PHRASES

Post date: Apr 14, 2014 3:58:15 PM

When you don't understand:

I'm sorry, I didn't quite catch that.

I'm not sure I understand what you mean.

What exactly do you mean?

Some useful language for ISE III 

EXPRESSING BELIEFS: 

I strongly believe...

I am a firm believer...

What are your thoughts regarding...

What are your beliefs on...

You seem very definite on that point...

The way I see it...

To be honest, I (don't) think...

In my honest opinion...

Well, it's not that clear cut because...

Yes, to a degree, but having said that...

DEFENDING and JUSTIFYING an argument:

What I am trying to explain is...

I see your point, but...

Don't you think it might be ...?

I agree with what you're saying, but in reality...

I think you might be making a few assumptions there...

I might be wrong, but don't you think it might be...?

SUMMARIZING/PARAPHRASING information and asking for clarification:

So in other words, what you are saying is....?

In other words, what I am trying to say is....

Are you saying/suggesting that...?

Essentially, what are the main points to bear in mind?

Essentially, the main points to bear in mind are...

Basically, my main point is...

Can you summarize that in just a few words?

Could you explain that in another way? 

Can/Could you expand on that?