C2 Expression Muy formal 2 min de lectura

An opposing view holds that

Argumentation and critical discussion expression

Literalmente: A person or group with a different perspective believes that

Use this to politely introduce a counter-argument in professional or academic settings.

En 15 segundos

  • A formal way to introduce a disagreeing opinion.
  • Used to show balance in a debate or essay.
  • Signals a shift to the 'other side' of an argument.

Significado

This phrase is a polite way to introduce a different opinion or argument. It signals that you are about to explain what people on the 'other side' of a debate believe.

Ejemplos clave

3 de 6
1

Writing a university essay

While some support the new tax, an opposing view holds that it will hurt small businesses.

While some support the new tax, a different argument says it will hurt small businesses.

💼
2

A serious board meeting

An opposing view holds that we should delay the launch until Q4.

Some people think we should wait until the end of the year to launch.

💼
3

Discussing a movie with a very serious film critic friend

I loved the ending, but an opposing view holds that it was far too predictable.

I liked it, but some people say the ending was easy to guess.

😊
🌍

Contexto cultural

This expression is rooted in the Western dialectical tradition, where truth is sought through the clash of opposing ideas. It became a staple of academic writing and high-level journalism to maintain 'journalistic objectivity.' It reflects a cultural value of intellectual humility—acknowledging that your view isn't the only one.

💡

The 'Hold' Secret

In this phrase, 'holds' doesn't mean grabbing something. it means 'to maintain a belief.' It's a very sturdy, old-fashioned way to say 'believes.'

⚠️

Don't Overuse It

If you use this phrase three times in one page, you'll sound like a robot. Mix it up with 'Critics suggest' or 'Alternatively.'

En 15 segundos

  • A formal way to introduce a disagreeing opinion.
  • Used to show balance in a debate or essay.
  • Signals a shift to the 'other side' of an argument.

What It Means

Think of this phrase as a bridge. It connects one idea to its opposite without being rude. It tells your listener that the topic isn't simple. You are showing that you understand the full picture. It is like saying, 'I know we just talked about Plan A, but let's look at Plan B.'

How To Use It

You usually place this at the start of a new paragraph or sentence. It acts as a formal pivot. First, you explain one side of a story. Then, you drop in An opposing view holds that to switch gears. It makes you sound very balanced and thoughtful. Try not to use it for small things like pizza toppings. Save it for bigger debates where people actually disagree.

When To Use It

Use this when you want to sound like an expert. It is perfect for university essays or business reports. It also works in serious meetings when you want to disagree with your boss politely. It shows you aren't just stubborn; you've actually studied the other side. It is the 'gentleman's way' of starting a fight.

When NOT To Use It

Do not use this at a loud bar with friends. If you say this while arguing about a movie, your friends might think you've swallowed a textbook. Avoid it in quick text messages too. It is too heavy for a 'Where are we eating?' conversation. Also, don't use it if there isn't actually a second opinion. You'll just confuse people.

Cultural Background

English-speaking cultures, especially in academia and law, value 'playing devil's advocate.' This means looking at a problem from every angle. This phrase comes from a long tradition of formal debate. It reflects a culture that prefers logical structure over emotional outbursts. It is very 'Oxford' or 'Harvard' in its DNA.

Common Variations

  • Critics argue that (more aggressive)
  • Conversely, some believe (shorter and faster)
  • On the other hand, it is argued that (very common)
  • A contrary perspective suggests (extra fancy)

Notas de uso

This is a C2-level expression. It is highly formal and should be reserved for structured arguments. Using it in a casual setting may make you sound pretentious or overly stiff.

💡

The 'Hold' Secret

In this phrase, 'holds' doesn't mean grabbing something. it means 'to maintain a belief.' It's a very sturdy, old-fashioned way to say 'believes.'

⚠️

Don't Overuse It

If you use this phrase three times in one page, you'll sound like a robot. Mix it up with 'Critics suggest' or 'Alternatively.'

💬

Polite Deflection

British speakers often use this to disagree without being 'confrontational.' It shifts the disagreement from 'I think you're wrong' to 'There is an idea that disagrees with you.'

Ejemplos

6
#1 Writing a university essay
💼

While some support the new tax, an opposing view holds that it will hurt small businesses.

While some support the new tax, a different argument says it will hurt small businesses.

Perfect for showing you've researched both sides of a policy.

#2 A serious board meeting
💼

An opposing view holds that we should delay the launch until Q4.

Some people think we should wait until the end of the year to launch.

A safe way to disagree with a popular plan without sounding personal.

#3 Discussing a movie with a very serious film critic friend
😊

I loved the ending, but an opposing view holds that it was far too predictable.

I liked it, but some people say the ending was easy to guess.

Slightly overkill for a movie, but works if the conversation is intellectual.

#4 A humorous debate about cats vs dogs
😄

An opposing view holds that cats are actually the masters, and we are the servants.

Some people think cats run the house and we just work for them.

Using such formal language for a silly topic creates a funny contrast.

#5 A deep conversation about life choices
💭

I want to travel, yet an opposing view holds that I should stay and build my career.

I want to go, but there's an argument for staying to work.

Used here to describe an internal conflict or 'the voice in your head.'

#6 Texting a colleague about a strategy shift
💼

I know you like the design, but an opposing view holds that it's too cluttered for mobile.

The other team thinks the design is too messy for phones.

A bit stiff for a text, but useful if the colleague is sensitive.

Ponte a prueba

Choose the best phrase to introduce a counter-argument in a formal report.

The CEO wants to expand. ___, however, ___ the risks outweigh the benefits.

✓ ¡Correcto! ✗ No del todo. Respuesta correcta: An opposing view holds that

This phrase fits the formal tone required for a report to a CEO.

Complete the sentence to show you understand both sides of a debate.

Many enjoy city life. ___, rural living offers more peace.

✓ ¡Correcto! ✗ No del todo. Respuesta correcta: An opposing view holds that

This creates a logical transition between the benefits of the city and the benefits of the country.

🎉 Puntuación: /2

Ayudas visuales

Formality of Disagreement

Casual

Talking to friends

But actually...

Neutral

Standard conversation

On the other hand...

Formal

Business or Academic

An opposing view holds that...

Where to use 'An opposing view holds that'

Opposing View
🎓

University Thesis

Analyzing historical events.

⚖️

Legal Brief

Presenting a counter-argument.

📰

Editorial Writing

Writing a newspaper opinion piece.

🏢

Corporate Strategy

Debating a company's future.

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

Mostly, yes. It is very common in essays, but you can use it in formal speeches or serious debates to sound more objective.

Yes, you can, but holds is more formal and sounds more authoritative in academic contexts.

In this context, holds means to possess or maintain a specific opinion or theory. It's like saying the argument 'carries weight.'

Only if the email is very formal. If you're emailing a close teammate, But some people think is much more natural.

Not necessarily. It just means you are acknowledging that the view exists. It helps you look fair and balanced.

Usually, no. It is used to refer to a general group of people or a specific school of thought, not your personal feelings.

On the other hand is more flexible and can be used in casual talk. An opposing view holds that is strictly for formal argumentation.

Use An if there are many different counter-arguments. Use The if there is only one specific, well-known alternative.

Yes, it is used in both American and British English, primarily in legal, academic, and journalistic settings.

No, you need to state one opinion first. You can't have an 'opposing' view if there isn't a 'first' view to oppose!

Frases relacionadas

Contrary to popular belief

Used when most people think one thing, but the truth is different.

A school of thought suggests

A formal way to introduce a specific group's theory.

Counter-intuitively

Used when a fact goes against what you would expect.

Be that as it may

A formal way to say 'even if that is true, here is another point.'

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