All phrases › beg to differ
What does “beg to differ” mean?
Meaning, example sentences and a quick practice question.
B2
To politely disagree with someone
“I beg to differ. I think it's a great idea.”
Say it smoothly: “be-gtoo-differ”
From the B2 lesson Agree to Disagree (disagreeing politely).
C1
To politely disagree with someone
“I beg to differ. I think the plan is risky.”
Say it smoothly: “be-gtoo-differ”
From the C1 lesson Agree to Disagree (disagreeing politely).
Quick check
What does “beg to differ” mean?
Teaching this phrase?“beg to differ” is part of a ready-to-teach lesson, with a reading, three exercises, speaking tasks and an answer key, in Everyday English Chunks B2 Pack 1 (Life, People and Places) and Everyday English Chunks C1 Pack 1 (Life, People and Places).
See the B2 lesson pack See the C1 lesson pack
See the B2 lesson pack See the C1 lesson pack
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Related phrases
- see your pointto understand why someone thinks the way they do, even if you disagree
- meet halfwayto compromise, with each side giving up something
- on the same pagehaving the same understanding or opinion as someone else
- play devil's advocateto argue the opposite side, often just to test an idea
- agree to disagreeto accept that you won't reach the same opinion, and stop arguing
- change your mindto decide something different from what you thought before
- stick to your gunsto refuse to change your opinion, despite pressure
- have a bone to pick (with someone)to want to talk to someone about something you're annoyed about
- get your point acrossto successfully make someone understand your opinion
- see where someone is coming fromto understand the reasons behind someone's opinion, even if you disagree
- split the differenceto compromise, often meeting exactly halfway
- stand your groundto refuse to change your opinion or position, despite pressure