Ten Ways to Professionally Make a Counterargument in Business English

Ten Ways to Professionally Make a Counterargument in Business English

In this article, we're diving into the world of counterarguments. Understanding how to make a strong counterargument isn't just about arguing better; it's about seeing the full picture. Here are ten examples of effective counterarguments that will make you sound professional and diplomatic.

1.That's a valid point, but have you considered...

Example:

Argument	A four-day workweek will improve employee satisfaction.
Counterargument	That's a valid point, but have you considered potential challenges like meeting deadlines with a shorter workweek?
	Validate the first speaker's argument, add a counterargument

MORE PRACTICE HERE

2. While I agree to some extent, it's important to consider...

Example:

Argument	Incorporating AI will significantly reduce our costs.
Counterargument	While I agree to some extent, it's important to consider the potential impact on employee morale.
	Validate the first speaker's argument, add a counterargument

3. I admit that... . However ...

Example:

Argument	We should introduce more wellness programs for our employees. This will definitely improve employee satisfaction and is likely to increase productivity.
Counterargument	I admit that new wellness programs might have a beneficial effect on employee satisfaction. However, they will strain our budget further while we have more urgent issues to deal with.
	Validate the first speaker's argument, add a counterargument

4. I hear what you're saying. However...

Example:

Argument	We should invest in expanding our office space. This will create a more comfortable work environment.
Counterargument	I hear what you're saying; however, expanding the office space is too expensive, we can't afford it now. I believe we should think about how we can optimize the current space.
	Validate the first speaker's argument, add a counterargument

5. I understand the benefits of ... . However, ...

Example:

Argument	If we let our employees work remotely, we'll be able to move into a smaller office.
Counterargument	I understand the benefits of remote work. However, it will be impossible to create the conditions for spontaneous creative exchange. It's possible only when employees are physically present in the office.
	Validate the first speaker's argument, add a counterargument

6. I agree in part with what you're saying, yet I believe ...

Example:

Argument	If we add more features to the product, this will make it more appealing to customers.
Counterargument	I agree in part with what you're saying, yet I believe we should first deal with our current issues before introducing new features.
	Validate the first speaker's argument, add a counterargument

7. I see what you mean, but there's another angle to consider...

Example:

Argument	These measures will increase efficiency.
Counterargument	I see what you mean, but there's another angle to consider. While it may improve efficiency in the long run, it will definitely cause disruptions now.
	Validate the first speaker's argument, add a counterargument

8. This makes sense. At the same time...

Example:

Argument	Our employees lack skills to complete some tasks. We should invest in training programs.
Counterargument	This makes sense. At the same time, we need to ensure that the training aligns with our business goals.
	Validate the first speaker's argument, add a counterargument

9. I see your point, but we must also take into account...

Example:

Argument	Offering free parking for all our clients, even non-members, will improve the overall customer experience.
Counterargument	I see your point, but we must also take into account the costs. We can't afford to increase the budget now.
	Validate the first speaker's argument, add a counterargument

10. I see where you're coming from, but we also need to consider...

Example:

Argument	Our budget is strained so we should buy used equipment.
Counterargument	I see where you're coming from, but we also need to consider the costs of repair. Used equipment tends to break more often. Why not take a loan and buy new machines?
	Validate the first speaker's argument, add a counterargument

QUIZ