These exercises are based on the course ‘Expressing a nuanced opinion in English’. Practice using hedging language, concessions, and degree adverbs to go beyond simple yes-or-no statements.
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Exercice 1 — Fill in the Gaps: Hedging and Degree Adverbs
Complete each sentence with the most appropriate hedging expression or degree adverb from the course. Write the full sentence in your answer.
- The new policy is ___ effective, but it still needs some adjustments. (use a degree adverb showing partial agreement)
- I ___ think remote work is always more productive than working in an office. (use a hedging verb to avoid a strong claim)
- She made some valid points; ___, I still have a few reservations about her conclusion. (use a concession connector)
- This approach ___ works in theory, but the practical challenges are significant. (use a degree adverb to sound balanced)
Correction
- The new policy is fairly effective, but it still needs some adjustments.
- I tend to think remote work is always more productive than working in an office.
- She made some valid points; nevertheless, I still have a few reservations about her conclusion.
- This approach largely works in theory, but the practical challenges are significant.
Exercice 2 — Spot and Correct the Errors
Each sentence contains one error related to expressing a nuanced opinion (hedging, concessions, or degree adverbs). Rewrite the full corrected sentence.
- Although I see your point, but I am not fully convinced by your argument.
- The results are rather positively, even if more research is needed.
- I would tend to thinking that stricter regulations could help reduce pollution.
- Despite the cost is high, the benefits of the programme seem to outweigh the drawbacks.
Correction
- Although I see your point, I am not fully convinced by your argument.
- The results are rather positive, even if more research is needed.
- I would tend to think that stricter regulations could help reduce pollution.
- Despite the high cost, the benefits of the programme seem to outweigh the drawbacks.
Exercice 3 — Multiple Choice: Choosing the Right Nuanced Expression
Choose the option that best expresses a nuanced opinion in context. Select the full sentence that sounds most natural and balanced at B2 level.
- You want to agree partially with a colleague's idea while signalling doubt. Which sentence is best?
- You want to make a concession before stating your main opinion. Which sentence is best?
- You want to express an opinion without sounding too assertive. Which sentence is best?
- You want to soften a critical opinion about a proposal. Which sentence is best?
Correction
- B. I would say that is broadly correct, though a few aspects remain uncertain.
- C. While social media has clear benefits, it also raises serious concerns about privacy.
- A. It seems to me that investing in public transport is a worthwhile priority.
- B. I tend to feel that the proposal is somewhat flawed, although it does have merit in certain areas.
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