Lesson 1

Lección 11/25 | Tiempo de estudio: 20 Min
Lesson 1

Differing opinions


"Differing opinions" refers to situations where individuals or groups hold different viewpoints, beliefs, or perspectives on a particular topic or issue. It is a common aspect of communication and can occur in various contexts, such as discussions, debates, or decision-making processes.


When expressing differing opinions, it is important to use appropriate language and structures to convey your thoughts effectively. Here are some rules and usage related to expressing differing opinions:




  • Introduction
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I think/believe/feel that...
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In my opinion/view...
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From my perspective...


  • Expressing agreement
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I agree with you.
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That's a valid point.
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I see what you mean.
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I share the same opinion.


  • Expressing partial agreement
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I agree with some aspects, but...
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I understand your point, but I also think...


  • Expressing disagreement
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I'm afraid I disagree.
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I have a different opinion.
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I see it differently.
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I respectfully disagree.


  • Providing reasons or justifications
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The reason I disagree is...
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One factor to consider is...
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From my experience, I've found that...


  • Softening disagreements
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I can see where you're coming from, but...
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I'm not entirely convinced by that argument.
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Perhaps we can look at it from another angle.


  • Seeking common ground
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Is there any middle ground we can find?
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Can we explore alternative options?
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Let's see if we can find a compromise.


To write a paragraph expressing disagreement, you can follow these steps:



Introduction:


Start with a clear statement that you disagree with a particular idea, opinion, or statement.





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While some argue that climate change is a natural phenomenon that is not primarily caused by human activities, I strongly disagree with this viewpoint.




State the opposing viewpoint:

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The overwhelming scientific consensus supports the idea that human actions, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation, 
significantly contribute to climate change.





Provide reasons or evidence:

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Extensive research and evidence demonstrate the rise in greenhouse gas emissions, the loss of biodiversity, and the warming of our planet.





Conclusion:


Summarize your disagreement and restate your position.

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It is crucial that we acknowledge our role in climate change and take immediate steps to transition to sustainable practices, reduce emissions, 
and protect our planet for future generations.

Remember to maintain a respectful and open-minded attitude when expressing differing opinions. It is essential to engage in constructive dialogue, actively listen to others, and provide reasoned arguments to support your viewpoint.

By understanding and applying these rules and usage, you can effectively communicate and navigate discussions involving differing opinions, promoting a healthy exchange of ideas and perspectives.


Discussing probability


"Discussing probability" involves expressing the likelihood or uncertainty of an event or situation. It allows us to speculate, make predictions, or discuss the likelihood of something happening in the future. Here are some rules and usage related to discussing probability:



  • Modal verbs
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Must: Used to express a high level of certainty or strong probability.
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Might/May/Could: Used to express a moderate level of probability or uncertainty.
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Can't/Couldn't: Used to express a low or zero probability.


  • Adverbs and phrases
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Likely/Unlikely: Used to indicate the probability of something happening.
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Probably/Probably not: Used to express a high degree of probability or lack thereof.
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It's possible/It's unlikely: Used to discuss the possibility or improbability of an event.
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It's highly probable/It's highly unlikely: Used to emphasize the likelihood or unlikelihood of something.


  • Speculating and predicting
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I think/believe/suppose/imagine that...
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It's possible/probable/likely that...
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I'm not sure, but it could/might/may happen.
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It's unlikely/unlikely that...


  • Expressing certainty or uncertainty
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I'm certain/positive/confident that...
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I'm not entirely sure/certain about...
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There's a good chance/possibility that...


  • Using conditional sentences
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First Conditional: Used to discuss possible future events, usually with a real possibility of happening.
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Second Conditional: Used to discuss hypothetical or unreal situations and their probable outcomes.



It is important to note that when discussing probability, the level of certainty or uncertainty can vary. Use appropriate language and context to convey the degree of probability accurately. Additionally, be mindful of cultural differences and consider the context in which you are discussing probability.


Checking out of a hotel


Choose the place in which


"Checking out of a hotel" refers to the process of leaving a hotel after your stay. Here are some rules and usage related to checking out of a hotel:

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Check-out time:
Most hotels have a designated check-out time, usually in the morning.
It's important to adhere to this time to avoid any additional charges or inconveniences.
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Settling the bill:
Before checking out, you need to settle your bill.
This includes paying for your room charges, any additional services or amenities used during your stay, and any outstanding balances.
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Reception or front desk:
To check out, you usually need to visit the reception or front desk of the hotel. 
Here, you can inform the hotel staff that you are checking out and provide any necessary information, such as your room number or reservation details.
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Return of key cards:
If your hotel uses key cards for room access, you will need to return them at the front desk during check-out. 
This ensures that you have officially ended your stay and no longer have access to the room.
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Confirmation of additional charges:
During check-out, the hotel staff may review your bill with you to confirm any additional charges, such as minibar usage, room service, or damages. 
If you have any questions or discrepancies, it's important to address them at this time.
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Baggage storage:
 If you have some time before your departure and need to store your luggage, the hotel may offer baggage storage facilities. 
You can inquire about this service during check-out.
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Expressing gratitude:
It is customary to express gratitude to the hotel staff for their services during your stay.
Yo can say "Thank you" or "I had a pleasant stay" as you check out.






Remember to check the specific policies and procedures of the hotel you are staying at, as they may have their own guidelines for check-out. Being polite, organized, and prompt during the check-out process ensures a smooth and respectful departure from the hotel.


Possible and probable conditions: first conditional and superlatives


Possible and probable conditions are expressed using the first conditional and superlatives.

Here are the rules and usage related to these structures:




  • 👉First conditional: The first conditional is used to talk about future events or situations that are likely or possible to happen. It is formed using the following structure:



    • If + present simple, + will + base verb

    • Example:
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If it rains tomorrow, I will stay at home.

  • In this structure, the if-clause expresses the condition, and the main clause expresses the result or consequence.





  • 👉Superlatives: Superlatives are used to compare three or more things and indicate the highest or lowest degree of a quality. They are formed by adding "-est" to the end of the adjective or by using "the most" before the adjective.


    • Examples include:
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The tallest, the smallest, the most beautiful, etc.

  • Superlatives are used to express superiority or inferiority. They are often used when discussing possibilities or probabilities by emphasizing the extreme nature of a particular situation.
  • Example:
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It's the most beautiful place I've ever seen.

  • In this sentence, the superlative "the most beautiful" emphasizes the exceptional nature of the place.




When discussing possible or probable conditions, the first conditional is used to express likely future outcomes based on a certain condition. Superlatives, on the other hand, are used to emphasize the extreme nature of a situation, indicating the highest or lowest degree of a quality.
It's important to note that the first conditional is used for possible or probable conditions, while the superlative is used to compare and emphasize the highest or lowest degree of a quality.