Important Phrases for Counter-Arguments

Important Phrases for Counter-Arguments TOEFL Prep Thursday, March 20th

Look at the following phrases: • “It has been said that. . .” • “Others have said that. . .” • “It could be argued that. . .” • “In the past people have argued that / complained that / criticized. . .”

Each example is used to introduce a counter-argument: “It has been said that the newest 3 Star Wars movies are not as well-written as the first 3.”

Then continue with your own opinion: “It has been said that the newest 3 Star Wars movies are not as well-written as the first 3. However, this idea misses one important point.”

TO MISS THE POINT • We can use this phrase to say that someone has forgotten or ignored a key fact that you think is more important.

For Example: “His argument misses the point. He does not take into consideration the fact that . . . .”

Drawing Attention to an Important Point • “One should consider. . .” • “You ought to consider. . .” • “It is useful to consider. . .”

More Ways to Introduce a Counter-Argument • “Others have said. . .” • “Others might say. . .” • “Others could say that. . .”

It is widely (generally) believed that Homer was the author of the Odyssey and Iliad. However, recent research suggests these books might have been written by many authors and later put together.

The director Quentin Tarantino clearly has a lot of creative talent, but it could be argued that much of his work has been copied from earlier directors, . . .

. . . such as Kurasawa in 1960s Japan, and Orson Welles before that.

In the past, people have argued that C. S. Lewis’ Chronicles of Narnia was the greatest achievement in children’s fantasy literature, . .

. . . but today His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman looks like it will take over as #1 in this genre.

Dealing with Criticism • “It’s boring!”  Some people might find the movie slow-paced. However, this increases the drama for an extraordinary and exciting conclusion.

Dealing with Criticism • “It’s not my style.” –or– “I’m not into this kind of movie.”  If you don’t think this movie is for you, think again. Everyone would be impressed by its amazing scenes and actors.

Dealing with Criticism • “But I’m not really interested in historical fiction.”  If you have never enjoyed a historical novel before, this book might change your mind. For one, . . Secondly, . . Finally, . . .

Dealing with Criticism • “It’s too violent.”  Admittedly this movie is not suitable for children, but adults and young adults will find that the violence is absolutely necessary in order to fully tell the whole truth of this story.

Dealing with Criticism • “I’m tired of silly love stories.”  There have been thousands and thousands of love stories written before, but this one is unique for a number of reasons. . . .

Dealing with Criticism (Positive) • “But I liked that movie!”  It is hard to imagine what someone might like about this movie. Clearly they did not notice the pointless dialogues and incomprehensible story line.

Important Phrases for Counter-Arguments