It could be argued that
Hedging expression to soften claims
直訳: It is possible for someone to argue that
Use this phrase to present an opinion as a logical possibility rather than an undeniable fact.
15秒でわかる
- A polite way to introduce a debatable opinion or claim.
- Softens your tone to avoid sounding too aggressive or bossy.
- Perfect for professional meetings, essays, and intellectual discussions.
意味
This phrase is a polite way to share an opinion without sounding too aggressive or bossy. It suggests that while you believe something is true, you acknowledge that other people might see it differently.
主な例文
3 / 6Discussing office productivity
It could be argued that shorter workdays actually increase overall productivity.
One might say that working fewer hours makes people get more done.
Debating a movie with friends
It could be argued that the sequel was better than the original film.
You could make a case that the second movie was better.
Writing a formal essay
It could be argued that the industrial revolution was the most significant event of that century.
There is a strong case that the industrial revolution was the top event.
文化的背景
This expression is a prime example of 'hedging' in English-speaking cultures, where directness can sometimes be perceived as arrogance. It has its roots in academic and legal discourse, where proving a point requires acknowledging the possibility of counter-arguments. Using it shows you are intellectually mature and respect the complexity of a topic.
The 'I' Filter
Use this phrase when you want to remove the word 'I' from your sentence. It makes your argument sound like it's based on logic rather than just your personal feelings.
Don't Overuse It
If you use this in every sentence, you will sound like you are afraid to have an opinion. Use it once or twice per conversation for maximum impact.
15秒でわかる
- A polite way to introduce a debatable opinion or claim.
- Softens your tone to avoid sounding too aggressive or bossy.
- Perfect for professional meetings, essays, and intellectual discussions.
What It Means
Think of It could be argued that as a protective shield for your opinions. It tells your listener, "I have an idea, but I am not the king of truth." You are presenting a logical possibility rather than a hard fact. It shifts the focus from your personal feelings to a general debate. It is the ultimate tool for staying humble while being smart.
How To Use It
Place this phrase right at the start of your sentence. It acts as a soft introduction to your main point. You follow it with a complete thought, usually something slightly controversial or subjective. For example, instead of saying "Pizza is the best food," you say, It could be argued that pizza is the most versatile meal. It makes you sound like a thoughtful philosopher instead of a stubborn eater.
When To Use It
You will mostly use this in professional or academic settings. It is perfect for business meetings when you want to disagree with a boss gently. Use it in essays or emails to show you have considered multiple sides. It is also great for polite dinner parties when discussing movies or books. It keeps the conversation flowing without starting a real fight.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this for obvious facts. Saying It could be argued that the sun is hot makes you sound very strange. Avoid it in high-speed emergencies too. If a building is on fire, do not say, It could be argued that we should leave. Also, skip it in very casual texts with your best friend. It might make you sound a bit too "fancy" or robotic for a Friday night hangout.
Cultural Background
English culture, especially in the UK and North America, highly values "hedging." This is the art of not being too direct to avoid offending others. This phrase comes from a tradition of academic debate and legal language. It reflects a cultural preference for appearing objective and rational. It is the verbal equivalent of a polite nod before sharing a different perspective.
Common Variations
You can swap a few words to change the flavor. It might be argued that is even softer and more hesitant. One could argue that sounds slightly more formal and old-fashioned. If you want to be stronger, try It can be argued that. All of them help you avoid saying "I think," which can sometimes sound a bit weak or too personal in a serious discussion.
使い方のコツ
This is a C1-level expression because it requires an understanding of nuance. It is perfect for the workplace or university, but use it sparingly in casual settings to avoid sounding pretentious.
The 'I' Filter
Use this phrase when you want to remove the word 'I' from your sentence. It makes your argument sound like it's based on logic rather than just your personal feelings.
Don't Overuse It
If you use this in every sentence, you will sound like you are afraid to have an opinion. Use it once or twice per conversation for maximum impact.
The British 'Polite' Attack
In British English, this is often used to introduce a very strong disagreement. If someone says this to you, they might be about to tell you why you are wrong, but in a very classy way!
例文
6It could be argued that shorter workdays actually increase overall productivity.
One might say that working fewer hours makes people get more done.
Softens a controversial suggestion to a manager.
It could be argued that the sequel was better than the original film.
You could make a case that the second movie was better.
Used here to sound like a sophisticated film critic.
It could be argued that the industrial revolution was the most significant event of that century.
There is a strong case that the industrial revolution was the top event.
Standard academic usage to introduce a thesis.
It could be argued that these are the best cookies ever made in this house.
I think these are the best cookies, but I'm being fancy about it.
Using formal language for a trivial topic creates humor.
It could be argued that we both need a bit more space to grow.
Maybe we both need some space, if you look at it logically.
Uses logic to soften a sensitive emotional topic.
It could be argued they only won because the other team's star was injured.
They might have only won because of luck.
Adds a layer of objectivity to a sports debate.
自分をテスト
Choose the best phrase to complete the sentence for a business presentation.
___ that our current strategy is slightly outdated for the modern market.
This phrase is the most professional way to suggest a change without sounding insulting to the current strategy.
Which variation sounds the most formal?
___ that the policy change was premature.
'One could argue' uses the formal pronoun 'one', making it the most academic choice.
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ビジュアル学習ツール
Formality Scale of Giving Opinions
Direct and personal
I think...
Clear but polite
In my opinion...
Objective and distanced
It could be argued that...
Highly academic
It may be contended that...
Where to use 'It could be argued that'
University Essay
Analyzing historical causes
Boardroom Meeting
Suggesting a new direction
Book Club
Discussing character motives
Polite Disagreement
Correcting a colleague
よくある質問
10 問Not at all! While it's common in writing, people use it in spoken English during meetings, debates, or even serious talks with friends to sound more reasonable.
Yes, It can be argued that is very similar, but could is slightly softer and more polite because it suggests a possibility rather than a certainty.
Usually, you are sure! You are just being polite. It's a social trick to make your opinion easier for others to accept.
I think is personal and subjective. It could be argued that sounds like there is evidence or a logical reason that anyone could see.
Only if you are being a bit funny or discussing something serious. In a quick 'where are you?' text, it would be way too formal.
You can say, 'That's a fair point,' or 'I see where you're coming from, but...' It opens the door for a respectful discussion.
Yes, but One could argue is even more formal. It's something you'd hear in a university lecture or read in a high-end newspaper.
It's better for ideas. Instead of It could be argued that I am sad, just say I feel sad. Use it for things people can actually debate.
Yes, always follow it with a full clause (subject + verb). For example: It could be argued that + the coffee is too cold.
Yes, it is very common in American professional and academic circles, though the British might use it slightly more in everyday polite conversation.
関連フレーズ
It is often suggested that
Used to introduce a common opinion held by many people.
One might say
A slightly more poetic and formal way to offer a perspective.
There is a case to be made for
Suggests there are specific facts supporting a certain view.
Arguably
A single-word adverb used to mean 'it can be argued'.
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