While this may be true
Argumentation and critical discussion expression
Use it to validate someone's point before politely explaining why you still disagree with their overall conclusion.
En 15 secondes
- A polite way to acknowledge a point before disagreeing.
- Used to soften the impact of a counter-argument.
- Signals that you are being fair and objective.
Signification
You use this to show you agree with someone's point before you introduce a different or opposing idea. It is a polite way to say 'I hear you, but I have a different perspective.'
Exemples clés
3 sur 6Discussing a project delay with a boss
While this may be true that we missed the deadline, the quality of the work is much higher.
While this may be true that we missed the deadline, the quality of the work is much higher.
Debating a movie choice with a friend
While this may be true that the movie is long, the acting is incredible.
While this may be true that the movie is long, the acting is incredible.
Responding to a customer complaint
While this may be true that the shipping was delayed, we have issued a full refund.
While this may be true that the shipping was delayed, we have issued a full refund.
Contexte culturel
This expression is rooted in the Western tradition of dialectics, where truth is found through balanced debate. It reflects a cultural preference for 'hedging'—avoiding direct confrontation to maintain social harmony. In professional settings, using this phrase marks you as someone who is objective rather than impulsive.
The 'Comma' Rule
Always pause after saying this phrase. In writing, that's a comma; in speaking, it's a brief breath. It lets the 'truth' sink in before you hit them with the 'but'.
Don't Overuse It
If you use this in every sentence, you'll sound like you're trying too hard to be an intellectual. Save it for the one big point you want to make.
En 15 secondes
- A polite way to acknowledge a point before disagreeing.
- Used to soften the impact of a counter-argument.
- Signals that you are being fair and objective.
What It Means
Think of this phrase as a verbal bridge. You are acknowledging that the other person is right about a specific fact. However, you are also signaling that their fact doesn't change your final conclusion. It is the ultimate 'yes, but' of the English language. It shows you are listening and being fair.
How To Use It
Place While this may be true at the very start of your sentence. Follow it with a comma. Then, deliver your counter-argument. It works like a shock absorber for a disagreement. It softens the blow of your contradiction. You are validating them before you challenge them. It makes you sound like a sophisticated thinker.
When To Use It
Use it when you want to sound objective and balanced. It is perfect for business meetings when a colleague makes a valid point that you still disagree with. Use it in academic writing to address a counter-point. Even in a friendly debate about movies, it works wonders. It keeps the conversation from turning into a shouting match. It says, 'I am smart enough to see your side.'
When NOT To Use It
Avoid this if you are in a high-stakes emotional argument with a partner. It can sound a bit cold or overly logical. Don't use it for simple facts that aren't up for debate. If someone says 'The sun is hot,' saying While this may be true makes you sound like a robot. Also, skip it in very short text messages. It is too wordy for a 'Where are you?' conversation.
Cultural Background
English speakers, especially in the UK and US, value 'polite disagreement.' We often feel uncomfortable being blunt. This phrase comes from a tradition of formal rhetoric and debate. It reflects a cultural desire to appear 'fair-minded.' It is the linguistic equivalent of a polite nod before you start speaking. It shows you are part of the 'intellectual' crowd.
Common Variations
That may be so, but...(slightly more casual)Admittedly...(very concise)While I concede that point...(very formal/legalistic)True as that may be...(adds a bit of poetic flair)I see your point, however...(the standard workplace version)
Notes d'usage
This is a C2-level expression because it requires a nuanced understanding of tone. It sits firmly in the 'formal' to 'neutral' register. Avoid using it in high-emotion personal conflicts where it might come across as dismissive or cold.
The 'Comma' Rule
Always pause after saying this phrase. In writing, that's a comma; in speaking, it's a brief breath. It lets the 'truth' sink in before you hit them with the 'but'.
Don't Overuse It
If you use this in every sentence, you'll sound like you're trying too hard to be an intellectual. Save it for the one big point you want to make.
The 'British' Softener
In British culture, this is often used to be incredibly polite while actually being very firm. It's a way to say 'You're wrong' without ever using the word 'wrong'.
Exemples
6While this may be true that we missed the deadline, the quality of the work is much higher.
While this may be true that we missed the deadline, the quality of the work is much higher.
Acknowledges the mistake but shifts focus to the positive outcome.
While this may be true that the movie is long, the acting is incredible.
While this may be true that the movie is long, the acting is incredible.
Validates the friend's concern about time before offering a reason to watch.
While this may be true that the shipping was delayed, we have issued a full refund.
While this may be true that the shipping was delayed, we have issued a full refund.
Admits the fault while highlighting the solution.
While this may be true that pineapple is a fruit, it has no business being on a pizza.
While this may be true that pineapple is a fruit, it has no business being on a pizza.
Uses formal language for a silly topic to create a comedic effect.
While this may be true that I'm tired, I'll still come for an hour.
While this may be true that I'm tired, I'll still come for an hour.
A bit wordy for a text, but shows a thoughtful compromise.
While this may be true that we've had a hard year, I still believe in us.
While this may be true that we've had a hard year, I still believe in us.
Acknowledges a painful reality before offering hope.
Teste-toi
Choose the best phrase to complete the professional disagreement.
___ that the budget is tight, we still need to hire a new designer.
This phrase correctly sets up a contrast between the tight budget and the need to hire.
Identify the correct punctuation for this expression.
While this may be true ___ the results are not yet final.
An introductory phrase like this should always be followed by a comma.
🎉 Score : /2
Aides visuelles
Formality Spectrum of Disagreement
Blunt and direct
Yeah, but...
Standard conversation
I see your point, but...
Sophisticated and polite
While this may be true...
Legal or academic
Notwithstanding the validity of that claim...
When to use 'While this may be true'
Performance Review
Acknowledging a mistake before explaining context.
Academic Essay
Introducing a counter-argument fairly.
Dinner Debate
Politely disagreeing with a friend's opinion.
Customer Service
Validating a customer's frustration.
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsYes, they are very similar! However, While this may be true is more emphatic and specifically acknowledges that the other person's point is valid.
You can, but it might feel a bit 'extra.' In a text, people usually prefer True, but... or Fair point, but....
Usually, yes. It acts as an anchor for the whole sentence. You could say, 'The plan is risky, while this may be true,' but it sounds very awkward.
Not at all! It's actually one of the most polite ways to disagree because it starts with agreement.
Yes, While that may be true is perfectly fine and means exactly the same thing.
Forgetting the second half of the thought. You must follow it with a contrasting idea, or the sentence feels unfinished.
It's common in both, but you'll see it more in formal writing like essays, reports, and editorials.
In this specific phrase, may doesn't mean you're unsure. It's a rhetorical way of saying 'I am granting you this point.'
Yes, you can just say True... or Granted... to achieve a similar effect more quickly.
No. If you agree 100%, just say 'I agree.' This phrase is specifically for when you have a 'but' coming next.
Expressions liées
Be that as it may
A more formal way to say 'regardless of what you just said.'
That said
Used to introduce a contrasting point after a statement.
Having said that
Similar to 'that said,' used to balance two opposing ideas.
Granted
Used to admit that something is true before making a different point.
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