Giving opinions
In my view, as far as I'm concerned, and hedging politely.
The rules
- Fixed phrase: "In my opinion". Never "according to me".
- Fixed: "As far as I'm concerned…".
- Hedged opinion: "It seems to me that…".
- Acknowledge first ("I see your point"), then disagree, standard polite pattern.
- "If you ask me, …" introduces a frank personal opinion.
- "What do you make of X?" = what's your opinion of X? (Also: "What do you think of/about X?")
Examples
- In my opinion, the earlier deadline is unrealistic.
- As far as I'm concerned, the price is fair.
- It seems to me that we need more data before deciding.
- I see your point, but I look at it differently.
- If you ask me.
- What do you make of the new policy?
Quick check
Pick an answer to see the rule behind it.
1._____ my opinion, the earlier deadline is unrealistic.
2.Which is a natural way to give a personal view?
3.It _____ to me that we need more data before deciding.
4.Which softens a disagreement most politely?
5.Which phrase asks for someone's opinion?