Debate Moves

Agreeing

Don't stop at the phrase: add a reason or example straight after.

Disagreeing politely

Softening is part of the expected register. Avoid a blunt non or c'est faux with an examiner.

Conceding, then coming back

This is the most effective move: accept part of the point, then reply. Note that certes and il est vrai need a follow-up.

• Certes, vous avez raison, mais il faut aussi tenir compte du coût.Admittedly you're right, but we must also consider the cost.
• C'est vrai, mais cela ne résout pas le problème.That's true, but it doesn't solve the problem.
• Je vous accorde que c'est difficile. Pourtant, d'autres pays y arrivent.I grant you it's difficult. Yet other countries manage it.
• Je comprends votre point de vue. Néanmoins, je reste convaincu du contraire.I understand your point of view. Nevertheless, I remain convinced of the opposite.
• Il n'en demeure pas moins que cette mesure est injuste.The fact remains that this measure is unfair.

Nuancing

Avoid black-and-white positions. These show a higher level straight away.

Stating and supporting

A view needs a reason, then evidence.

Challenging and asking

Interaction scores marks. Ask, test, and clarify rather than waiting.

Interrupting and holding the floor

Do both politely. An examiner may cut you off on purpose to test your reaction.

Buying time

A planned phrase sounds much better than silence or 'euh' on repeat.

Changing your mind and closing

Conceding well isn't a loss. Being able to shift is a sign of real ability.

• Vous m'avez convaincu sur ce point.You've convinced me on this point.
• Je n'avais pas vu les choses ainsi.I hadn't seen things that way.
• En fin de compte, nous sommes d'accord sur l'essentiel.In the end, we agree on the essentials.
• Pour résumer ma position, je dirais que...To sum up my position, I'd say that...
• Sur ce point, nous pouvons rester chacun sur notre position.On this point, we can agree to differ.

Sample exchange

Study how each reply reacts first, then adds its own point. Read it aloud with a partner.

• Il faudrait interdire les voitures en ville.Cars should be banned from towns.
• Je comprends l'idée, mais ce n'est pas si simple.I understand the idea, but it isn't that simple.
• Pourquoi donc ? La pollution est un vrai problème.Why's that? Pollution is a real problem.
• Certes, mais comment feraient les personnes âgées ?Admittedly, but how would elderly people manage?
• Les transports en commun sont là pour ça.That's what public transport is for.
• Pas forcément, surtout dans les petites villes.Not necessarily, especially in small towns.