10 Phrases for Starting a Debate
Starting a debate doesn’t mean being confrontational—it means inviting thoughtful discussion. Whether you’re in a classroom, team meeting, or casual conversation, these 10 phrases for starting a debate help you introduce different viewpoints respectfully and clearly. Use them to spark healthy dialogue, not arguments.
Common Ways to Say ‘What If We Look at It Differently?’
Polite & Inviting
- I’d like to open a discussion about… Neutral and respectful—perfect for classrooms or meetings. I’d like to open a discussion about whether remote work should be mandatory.
- What are your thoughts on…? Encourages others to share opinions without pressure. What are your thoughts on raising the minimum wage?
- Have you ever considered…? Gentle and curious—invites reflection, not defensiveness. Have you ever considered that AI might create more jobs than it replaces?
- There’s an interesting debate around… Introduces a topic as a shared societal question. There’s an interesting debate around social media’s impact on teens.
Presenting a Counterpoint
- Some people argue that… Presents an opposing view without claiming it as your own. Some people argue that standardized tests don’t measure real ability.
- On the other hand, we could look at it this way… Balances the conversation fairly. Cheap energy helps the economy. On the other hand, we could look at it this way: fossil fuels harm the planet.
- But what if the opposite is true? Challenges assumptions playfully and thoughtfully. We assume college is necessary. But what if the opposite is true?
Direct & Engaging
- Let’s play devil’s advocate for a moment… Signals you’re exploring a view, not endorsing it. Let’s play devil’s advocate for a moment—what if canceling student debt hurts the economy?
- I see it differently—here’s why… Asserts your perspective while staying open. I see it differently—here’s why: data shows remote work boosts productivity.
- Is it possible that we’re missing something? Invites re-examination without accusation. Is it possible that we’re missing something in how we measure success?
Real-Life Dialogues
Student: There’s an interesting debate around homework in elementary school.
Teacher: Great point. What are your thoughts on whether it helps or hurts learning?
Student: Some people argue that it causes stress, not improvement.
Colleague: We should stick with the old marketing strategy.
You: I see it differently—here’s why: our audience has changed.
Colleague: Hmm. Is it possible that we’re missing something?
Quick Tips: Choosing the Right Phrase
| Situation | Recommended Expression | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Classroom or seminar | I’d like to open a discussion about… | Respectful, structured, and invites participation. |
| Team meeting | On the other hand, we could look at it this way… | Balanced and collaborative—avoids sounding oppositional. |
| Casual conversation | Have you ever considered…? | Non-threatening and sparks curiosity. |
| Exploring a controversial take | Let’s play devil’s advocate for a moment… | Clearly frames the comment as exploratory, not personal. |
Practice Tip
Next time you disagree with a news headline or movie opinion, try starting your response with “Have you ever considered…?” or “Some people argue that…”—it turns opinions into open dialogue!
Why This Matters
- Using these 10 phrases for starting a debate helps you engage in critical thinking and respectful conversation.
- It builds confidence in academic, professional, and social settings where sharing ideas matters.
- Native speakers use these expressions to explore ideas—not to win arguments—making your English sound mature and fluent.
Debate isn’t about being right—it’s about exploring ideas together. Try using one of these 10 phrases for starting a debate in your next conversation. You’ll encourage deeper thinking and stronger connections. Happy learning! 😊
