Disagreeing with someone can be a sensitive matter, especially in professional and personal relationships. Using different phrases to express disagreement allows for more nuanced communication.
Instead of bluntly saying “I don’t agree,” varying your language can convey your message more effectively while maintaining respect and politeness.
Top Variations of ‘I Don’t Agree’ in English
- “I see your point, but…”
- “That’s an interesting perspective, however…”
- “I’m not quite on the same page.”
- “I have a different viewpoint.”
- “I respectfully disagree.”
- “I can’t concur with that.”
- “I’m not sure I agree with that.”
- “I have some reservations about that.”
- “That doesn’t resonate with me.”
- “I’m inclined to disagree.”
- “I don’t share that opinion.”
- “That’s not how I see it.”
- “I appreciate your input, but…”
- “I would like to offer a different perspective.”
- “That’s one way to look at it, but…”
1. “I see your point, but…”
This phrase acknowledges the other person’s perspective while introducing your own disagreement.
Email Scenario:
Subject: Feedback on the Proposal
Hi Darcy,
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on the project proposal. I see your point, but I believe that the timeline you suggested may be a bit tight given the scope of the work involved. Perhaps we could discuss a more realistic timeframe?
Looking forward to your thoughts!
Best,
Elizabeth
Additional Note:
This approach shows that you value the other person’s input, which can help soften the disagreement.
2. “That’s an interesting perspective, however…”
This phrase indicates that you appreciate the other’s view while setting the stage for your disagreement.
Email Scenario:
Subject: Team Strategy Meeting
Dear Darcy,
I hope you’re well! I found your analysis of the marketing strategy quite compelling. That’s an interesting perspective, however, I believe we may need to rethink our target audience. The current data suggests a shift in demographics that we should consider.
Let’s chat more about this during our next meeting.
Best regards,
Elizabeth
Additional Note:
Using “however” introduces your disagreement respectfully and opens the door for further discussion.
3. “I’m not quite on the same page.”
This phrase suggests a misalignment in understanding or perspective.
Email Scenario:
Subject: Budget Discussion
Hi Darcy,
Thanks for your detailed breakdown of the budget. After reviewing it, I’m not quite on the same page regarding the allocation for marketing. I believe we should prioritize digital channels over traditional ones to maximize our reach.
Let’s discuss this further when you have a moment.
Best,
Elizabeth
Additional Note:
This expression is conversational and indicates that you’re willing to engage in dialogue.
4. “I have a different viewpoint.”
A straightforward way to introduce your perspective without being confrontational.
Email Scenario:
Subject: Feedback on the Project Direction
Dear Darcy,
I appreciate the work you’ve put into the project so far. I have a different viewpoint regarding the direction we should take. I think we should focus on sustainability more than innovation at this stage.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this.
Warm regards,
Elizabeth
Additional Note:
This phrase is clear and maintains a professional tone, making it suitable for most contexts.
5. “I respectfully disagree.”
A formal way to express disagreement that conveys politeness and respect.
Email Scenario:
Subject: Proposed Changes to the Policy
Hi Darcy,
Thank you for outlining the proposed changes to our policy. I respectfully disagree with the suggestion to remove the remote work option. I believe it has significantly improved productivity among our team.
Let’s discuss this further when you have time.
Best,
Elizabeth
Additional Note:
This phrase is particularly effective in formal or professional settings, showing that you value the relationship.
6. “I can’t concur with that.”
A more formal expression that indicates disagreement.
Email Scenario:
Subject: Discussion on the New Guidelines
Dear Darcy,
I hope you’re doing well. After reviewing the new guidelines you proposed, I can’t concur with that approach as it may limit our team’s creativity. I’d like to suggest a more flexible framework that encourages innovation.
Let’s talk about this soon.
Best regards,
Elizabeth
Additional Note:
Using “concur” adds a touch of sophistication to your disagreement.
7. “I’m not sure I agree with that.”
This phrase expresses doubt about the other person’s viewpoint.
Email Scenario:
Subject: Strategy Meeting Recap
Hi Darcy,
Thank you for summarizing our strategy meeting. However, I’m not sure I agree with that conclusion regarding our target market. The data suggests we might need to explore other segments.
I’d appreciate your feedback on this.
Cheers,
Elizabeth
Additional Note:
This expression is soft and allows for a more open conversation about differing opinions.
8. “I have some reservations about that.”
A diplomatic way to express disagreement, suggesting careful consideration.
Email Scenario:
Subject: Proposed Project Timeline
Dear Darcy,
Thank you for sharing the proposed timeline for the project. I have some reservations about that schedule, as it might be overly ambitious. I think we should allow more time for each phase to ensure quality.
Let’s discuss how we can adjust this.
Best,
Elizabeth
Additional Note:
This phrase suggests thoughtfulness and care, which can help in collaborative environments.
9. “That doesn’t resonate with me.”
This expression conveys that you do not connect with the other person’s viewpoint.
Email Scenario:
Subject: Review of the New Product Line
Hi Darcy,
Thanks for your insights on the new product line. However, that doesn’t resonate with me as I believe we might be missing out on a key demographic. I’d like to propose some alternative ideas that align more with our brand.
Looking forward to discussing this!
Best,
Elizabeth
Additional Note:
This phrase is gentle and encourages a collaborative atmosphere.
10. “I’m inclined to disagree.”
A formal way to indicate that you tend to have a different opinion.
Email Scenario:
Subject: Discussion on Company Policy
Dear Darcy,
I appreciate your thoughts on the company policy. However, I’m inclined to disagree with the proposed changes regarding remote work. I believe maintaining flexibility is crucial for employee satisfaction.
Let’s schedule some time to discuss this.
Warm regards,
Elizabeth
Additional Note:
This expression maintains professionalism and encourages further dialogue.
11. “I don’t share that opinion.”
A clear and straightforward way to express disagreement.
Email Scenario:
Subject: Marketing Strategy Feedback
Hi Darcy,
Thank you for your recent input on the marketing strategy. I wanted to mention that I don’t share that opinion regarding the focus on traditional advertising. I believe digital platforms would yield better results.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this.
Best,
Elizabeth
Additional Note:
This phrase is direct and maintains clarity in communication.
12. “That’s not how I see it.”
A conversational phrase indicating a different perspective.
Email Scenario:
Subject: Debrief from Last Meeting
Dear Darcy,
I hope you’re well! After reflecting on our last meeting, I wanted to share that that’s not how I see it regarding the team’s performance. I think there are several areas where we excelled that we need to highlight.
Looking forward to discussing this further.
Best regards,
Elizabeth
Additional Note:
This phrase opens the door for a deeper discussion while maintaining a friendly tone.
13. “I appreciate your input, but…”
A polite way to acknowledge the other person’s thoughts before expressing your disagreement.
Email Scenario:
Subject: Proposal for the New Initiative
Hi Darcy,
Thank you for your valuable input on the new initiative. I appreciate your input, but I believe we may need to consider additional resources to ensure its success.
Let’s explore this together soon.
Warm regards,
Elizabeth
Additional Note:
This expression respects the other person’s perspective while allowing for a respectful disagreement.
14. “I would like to offer a different perspective.”
A formal way to introduce your disagreement while suggesting an alternative view.
Email Scenario:
Subject: Analysis of Current Market Trends
Dear Darcy,
I hope you’re doing well! After analyzing the current market trends, I would like to offer a different perspective than what was previously discussed. I think we should focus more on emerging technologies.
Let’s set a time to discuss this further.
Best,
Elizabeth
Additional Note:
This phrase encourages constructive dialogue and shows willingness to collaborate.
15. “That’s one way to look at it, but…”
This phrase introduces your disagreement while acknowledging the other person’s viewpoint.
Email Scenario:
Subject: Review of the Project Goals
Hi Darcy,
Thank you for your summary of the project goals. That’s one way to look at it, but I believe we might achieve better results if we also incorporate feedback from the client’s perspective.
Let’s discuss this soon!
Best,
Elizabeth
Additional Note:
This approach is friendly and encourages open communication.
