I take your point, but
Acknowledge then disagree
直訳: I grasp your specific argument, however
Use it to show you listened before explaining why you still disagree.
15秒でわかる
- A polite way to disagree without being rude.
- Acknowledges the other person's logic before offering a counter-argument.
- Perfect for work meetings, debates, and friendly disagreements.
意味
This phrase is a polite way to tell someone you understand their opinion before you explain why you actually disagree with them. It acts like a soft cushion for the 'no' that is coming next.
主な例文
3 / 6In a business meeting
I take your point about the deadline, but we cannot sacrifice quality.
I understand your concern about the time, but quality is more important.
Discussing dinner plans
I take your point, but I really don't feel like Italian food tonight.
I hear you, but I want something other than Italian.
Texting a friend about a movie
I take your point, but the sequel was definitely better than the original!
I see why you think that, but I prefer the second movie.
文化的背景
This expression is a hallmark of 'hedging' in English communication, where speakers avoid direct confrontation to maintain social harmony. It is particularly common in UK Parliament debates and corporate boardrooms to keep discussions civil. It signals that you are an active listener who values logic over ego.
The 'But' Transition
Make sure to pause slightly after saying the phrase before you say `but`. It makes the acknowledgement feel more sincere.
Don't Overuse It
If you use this in every sentence, you will sound like a robot or a politician. Save it for the most important points of the argument.
15秒でわかる
- A polite way to disagree without being rude.
- Acknowledges the other person's logic before offering a counter-argument.
- Perfect for work meetings, debates, and friendly disagreements.
What It Means
Think of this phrase as a bridge. You are standing on one side with your opinion. Your friend is on the other side. By saying I take your point, you are walking halfway across that bridge to show you listened. You aren't saying they are 100% right. You are just saying, "I hear you, and your idea makes sense." Then, the but allows you to walk back to your side and explain your own view. It is the ultimate tool for polite disagreement.
How To Use It
You usually say this after someone has finished a long explanation. Wait for them to breathe. Then, start your sentence with I take your point, but... and follow it with your counter-argument.
I take your point, but we don't have the budget.I take your point, but I think the blue one looks better.
It is like a verbal handshake before a boxing match. It keeps things friendly.
When To Use It
This is perfect for professional meetings where you want to sound smart and respectful. Use it when your boss suggests something impossible. Use it with your partner when debating which movie to watch. It works best when the other person has a valid reason for their choice. It shows you are a good listener, even if you are stubborn.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use this in a heated emotional argument with a best friend. It can sound a bit too cold or clinical. If your friend is crying about a breakup, don't say I take your point, but.... That is a one-way ticket to a lonely dinner. Also, avoid using it if you actually agree with the person. That just gets confusing for everyone involved.
Cultural Background
This phrase is deeply rooted in British English debating culture. It reflects a cultural value of 'politeness over directness.' In many English-speaking cultures, saying "You are wrong" is considered rude. We prefer to wrap our disagreement in layers of acknowledgement. It’s the linguistic version of a 'compliment sandwich.' It has become a staple in business English worldwide because it keeps negotiations moving forward without hurting feelings.
Common Variations
If you want to spice things up, you can try these:
I see where you're coming from, but...(More casual)Fair point, but...(Short and punchy)I hear what you're saying, but...(Very common in the US)Point taken, but...(A bit more blunt and final)
Each one does the same job: it acknowledges the other person before you drop the 'but' bomb.
使い方のコツ
This phrase sits comfortably in the 'neutral' to 'formal' range. It is highly effective in professional settings but can feel a bit stiff in very casual, high-energy social environments.
The 'But' Transition
Make sure to pause slightly after saying the phrase before you say `but`. It makes the acknowledgement feel more sincere.
Don't Overuse It
If you use this in every sentence, you will sound like a robot or a politician. Save it for the most important points of the argument.
The British 'Softener'
In the UK, this is often used to be incredibly polite even when the speaker thinks the other person is completely wrong. It's a way to keep 'stiff upper lip' decorum.
例文
6I take your point about the deadline, but we cannot sacrifice quality.
I understand your concern about the time, but quality is more important.
Shows professional respect while standing firm on standards.
I take your point, but I really don't feel like Italian food tonight.
I hear you, but I want something other than Italian.
Softens a rejection of a suggestion.
I take your point, but the sequel was definitely better than the original!
I see why you think that, but I prefer the second movie.
Used to keep a friendly debate going via text.
I take your point about dogs being loyal, but cats don't wake you up at 6 AM.
Dogs are loyal, sure, but cats let you sleep in.
Uses the phrase to playfully defend a preference.
I take your point about the garden, but the commute would be two hours.
The garden is nice, but the travel time is too long.
Balances emotional desires with practical reality.
I take your point regarding the data, but the sample size is too small.
The data is interesting, but there isn't enough of it.
Used to critique a logical argument politely.
自分をテスト
Choose the best phrase to complete the polite disagreement.
___ about the cost, but we need to invest in new laptops eventually.
This phrase acknowledges the cost concern before introducing the necessity of the purchase.
Which word usually follows 'I take your point' to introduce a different opinion?
I take your point, ___ I still think we should turn left here.
The word 'but' is the standard conjunction used to transition from acknowledgement to disagreement.
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ビジュアル学習ツール
Formality Spectrum of Disagreement
Used with close friends.
Fair enough, but...
The 'sweet spot' for most situations.
I take your point, but...
Used in high-level professional settings.
I concede that point, however...
Where to use 'I take your point, but'
Office Meeting
Discussing a new strategy.
With a Partner
Deciding on home decor.
Customer Service
Explaining a policy.
Classroom
Debating a topic with a peer.
よくある質問
10 問Not necessarily. It means you understand their logic or perspective, but you still hold a different opinion.
Yes, it is a very safe and professional way to disagree with a superior without sounding disrespectful.
Similar, but I take your point is slightly more formal and focuses on the logic of the argument rather than just the act of listening.
You can, but it usually implies that you have been convinced. Without the but, people will think you now agree with them.
Yes, though Americans might more frequently say I see your point or I get what you're saying.
In this context, point refers to a specific argument or fact in a discussion, making it more precise than idea.
No, that is the standard structure. However, adding a small breath or a nod makes it feel much warmer.
Yes, using however makes the sentence feel more formal and is great for writing or serious speeches.
Absolutely. It is a great way to structure a professional email where you need to decline a request or suggestion.
If their idea is total nonsense, you might prefer I'm not sure I follow your logic instead of pretending to take their point.
関連フレーズ
I see where you're coming from
I understand your perspective or motivation.
Fair point
That is a valid argument that I hadn't considered.
With all due respect
A formal way to introduce a disagreement (often used before a strong critique).
I hear what you're saying
I am listening to you, but I might still disagree.
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