To some observers
Hedging expression to soften claims
Use it to share a critical observation while sounding objective and professional.
En 15 secondes
- A polite way to state an opinion as an observation.
- Softens critical claims to avoid sounding too aggressive.
- Commonly used in business, journalism, and intellectual discussions.
Signification
This phrase is a clever way to share an opinion without sounding too bossy or certain. It suggests that while some people see things a specific way, you aren't claiming it's the absolute truth for everyone.
Exemples clés
3 sur 6Discussing a company's new logo
To some observers, the new logo looks a bit dated.
To some observers, the new logo looks a bit dated.
Talking about a friend's relationship
To some observers, they seem to be moving way too fast.
To some observers, they seem to be moving way too fast.
In a formal business report
To some observers, the market is reaching a saturation point.
To some observers, the market is reaching a saturation point.
Contexte culturel
The phrase originates from political journalism and academic writing to maintain a 'veneer of objectivity.' It reflects a Western cultural preference for indirectness in professional settings to avoid personal conflict. It has become a popular 'power phrase' in corporate environments to sound more authoritative yet cautious.
The 'Distance' Trick
Use this when you want to criticize your boss's idea without getting fired. It makes the criticism sound like it's coming from 'the world' rather than just you.
Don't Overuse It
If you use this in every sentence, you'll sound like you're hiding something or are afraid to have an actual opinion.
En 15 secondes
- A polite way to state an opinion as an observation.
- Softens critical claims to avoid sounding too aggressive.
- Commonly used in business, journalism, and intellectual discussions.
What It Means
To some observers is a classic 'hedging' phrase. It acts like a soft cushion for a sharp opinion. When you use it, you are attributing a viewpoint to a vague group of people called 'observers.' This makes the statement feel more objective. You aren't saying 'I think this.' You are saying 'People watching this might think this.' It creates a little distance between you and the claim. It’s perfect for when you want to be critical without being confrontational.
How To Use It
Place this phrase at the very beginning of your sentence. Follow it with a comma. Then, state the observation or opinion. For example: To some observers, the new office rules seem a bit strict. You can also put it in the middle of a sentence for a more sophisticated rhythm. Use it to point out flaws, trends, or changes. It works best when the topic is something people can interpret in different ways. Don't use it for facts like the weather. Use it for 'vibes' or strategies.
When To Use It
Use it in professional meetings to voice a concern safely. It’s great for writing emails where you want to sound analytical. You can use it when discussing art, sports, or politics with friends. It’s perfect for 'armchair experts' who love to analyze situations. Use it when you want to sound like a thoughtful commentator. It adds a layer of intellectual polish to your speech. It’s also a lifesaver when you need to deliver bad news gently.
When NOT To Use It
Avoid this phrase in very casual, high-energy settings. Don't say it to your best friend while screaming at a concert. It will make you sound like a robot. Never use it for personal feelings. Saying To some observers, I am hungry sounds ridiculous. Stick to 'I'm starving.' Also, avoid it if you need to be 100% direct and authoritative. If a building is on fire, don't say To some observers, there is smoke. Just yell 'Fire!'
Cultural Background
This phrase comes from the world of journalism and high-level diplomacy. Reporters use it when they can't name a specific source. It’s a hallmark of 'British-style' politeness and understatement. In Western culture, being too direct can sometimes be seen as aggressive. This phrase allows for 'plausible deniability.' It’s the linguistic equivalent of wearing a suit to a business-casual party. It shows you are observant but not necessarily judgmental.
Common Variations
To the casual observer(for things that are obvious)To many observers(to show a stronger consensus)To an outside observer(to show a fresh perspective)To the trained eye(for expert opinions)It may seem to some(a more tentative version)
Notes d'usage
This is a high-level C1 expression. It is most effective in writing and formal speech. In casual conversation, use it sparingly to avoid sounding pretentious unless you are being intentionally funny.
The 'Distance' Trick
Use this when you want to criticize your boss's idea without getting fired. It makes the criticism sound like it's coming from 'the world' rather than just you.
Don't Overuse It
If you use this in every sentence, you'll sound like you're hiding something or are afraid to have an actual opinion.
The Academic Secret
In English universities, this is a 'cheat code' for sounding smarter in essays. It shows you've considered multiple perspectives.
Exemples
6To some observers, the new logo looks a bit dated.
To some observers, the new logo looks a bit dated.
Softens the criticism of the design.
To some observers, they seem to be moving way too fast.
To some observers, they seem to be moving way too fast.
Makes the gossip sound like a neutral analysis.
To some observers, the market is reaching a saturation point.
To some observers, the market is reaching a saturation point.
Adds a layer of expert-sounding caution.
To some observers, the kitchen might look like a disaster zone.
To some observers, the kitchen might look like a disaster zone.
Uses formal language for a funny, sarcastic effect.
To some observers, his best days on the field are behind him.
To some observers, his best days on the field are behind him.
A gentle way to suggest someone is declining.
To some observers, the menu is a little over-complicated.
To some observers, the menu is a little over-complicated.
A polite way to say the food is confusing.
Teste-toi
Choose the best phrase to complete the sentence for a professional meeting.
___, the project timeline seems a bit optimistic.
`To some observers` is the most professional way to hedge a critical opinion.
Which variation suggests the observation is very easy to make?
To the ___ observer, the mistake was obvious.
`To the casual observer` means even someone not paying close attention would notice.
🎉 Score : /2
Aides visuelles
Formality Level of 'To some observers'
I think...
I think it's bad.
It seems like...
It seems like a mistake.
To some observers...
To some observers, this is an error.
When to use 'To some observers'
Business Meeting
Critiquing a strategy.
Art Gallery
Discussing a painting.
News Report
Analyzing a event.
Sarcastic Text
Commenting on a mess.
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsIn this context, it doesn't mean a specific scientist. It refers to anyone who is watching or paying attention to the situation, like To some observers, the game was fixed.
Yes, but usually it's for a slightly more serious or intellectual topic. If you use it for something silly, it sounds funny and sarcastic, like To some observers, you've had too much coffee.
Not exactly. In my opinion is direct and personal. To some observers is indirect and sounds more like a general consensus or a logical conclusion.
Always put a comma after the phrase if it starts the sentence. Example: To some observers, the movie was too long.
Absolutely! Using many instead of some makes the claim feel stronger and more widely accepted.
Yes, it is very common in American news, business, and academic writing, though it has a slightly 'British' formal feel.
A casual observer is someone who isn't an expert but can still see the obvious truth, like To the casual observer, the car was clearly speeding.
It makes you sound 'cautious' rather than 'unsure.' It shows you know that other people might have different views.
You can, but it's rare. It's usually used for critiques. To some observers, her performance was brilliant sounds a bit cold compared to 'She was amazing!'
Using it for facts. Don't say To some observers, the sun is hot. That's just a fact, not an observation that needs hedging.
Expressions liées
Arguably
Used when you want to say something is likely true but could be debated.
From a certain perspective
Similar to 'to some observers,' but focuses on the angle of the argument.
It would appear that
A very formal way to say 'it seems like.'
By all accounts
Used when everyone who has seen or heard something agrees on it.
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