Polite Disagreement – British English

Polite Disagreement in British English

British English often disagrees politely and indirectly.

Instead of saying "I disagree", speakers often say: I’m not sure, I see it slightly differently, or I’m not entirely convinced.

Example:
I’m not sure that would work.
Real meaning: I disagree.

Choose the real meaning.

Score: 0 / 25

1. I’m not sure that would work. ______
a) I disagree.
b) I fully agree.

2. I see it slightly differently. ______
a) I agree completely.
b) I disagree.

3. I’m not entirely convinced. ______
a) I disagree.
b) I strongly agree.

4. I’m not sure I’d go that far. ______
a) I fully agree.
b) I disagree.

5. That may not be the best option. ______
a) I disagree with that option.
b) That is perfect.

6. I’m not sure that’s quite right. ______
a) I agree.
b) I disagree.

7. I might take a different view. ______
a) I disagree.
b) I agree.

8. I’m not sure I agree with that. ______
a) I agree.
b) I disagree.

9. I’m not entirely comfortable with that. ______
a) I disagree.
b) I support it.

10. I’m not convinced that’s necessary. ______
a) I agree.
b) I disagree.

11. I’m not sure that’s the right approach. ______
a) I disagree.
b) I agree.

12. I’d see it slightly differently. ______
a) I agree.
b) I disagree.

13. I’m not sure that makes sense. ______
a) I disagree.
b) I fully agree.

14. I’m not sure I follow that logic. ______
a) I agree.
b) I disagree.

15. I’m not convinced that’s the best way. ______
a) I disagree.
b) I strongly agree.

16. I might suggest another option. ______
a) I agree with the first option.
b) I disagree with the first option.

17. I’m not sure that’s necessary. ______
a) I disagree.
b) I agree.

18. I’m not certain that would help. ______
a) I agree.
b) I disagree.

19. I’m not sure we should do that. ______
a) I disagree.
b) I agree.

20. I’m not sure that’s appropriate. ______
a) I agree.
b) I disagree.

21. I’d perhaps take another approach. ______
a) I disagree.
b) I agree.

22. I’m not sure we’re aligned on this. ______
a) I agree.
b) I disagree.

23. I might question that assumption. ______
a) I disagree.
b) I fully agree.

24. I’m not sure that’s realistic. ______
a) I agree.
b) I disagree.

25. I’m not entirely persuaded. ______
a) I disagree.
b) I strongly agree.

Score: 0 / 25