Everyone’s entitled to their own opinions, of course, but that doesn’t automatically make them correct.
While it’s important to respect people’s right to their own perspectives, when you know you’re on the right side of a debate, it can be frustrating to feel like you’re talking to a brick wall. You shouldn’t invalidate or tear down the other person’s point of view, but there are some things you can say to talk them ’round to seeing things from your side. With the right persuasive words in your arsenal, you can squash any conflict and start coming at things from the same angle.
1. “I see where you’re coming from, but have you considered…?”
This shows empathy and respect for the other person’s perspective while gently introducing your own point. It keeps the conversation collaborative rather than confrontational, which makes people more open to hearing you out. It’s like saying, “We’re on the same team—let me show you another play.”
2. “Let’s look at the bigger picture for a moment.”
When the conversation gets stuck on details, this changes the focus to the overarching issue. It helps everyone step back and reassess priorities, which can make your argument feel more balanced and insightful. It’s also a clever way to redirect the debate without dismissing anyone’s points. They won’t even realise you’ve done it!
3. “Can we agree that…?”
Finding common ground is like discovering water in a desert, and this one brings both sides together on a shared belief or goal, which makes it easier to build your argument from there. It’s the conversational equivalent of planting your flag before expanding your territory. Once you’re on the same page on even one detail, you can actually start making progress.
4. “What I’m hearing is [insert their perspective here]. Am I getting that right?”
When someone feels truly heard, they’re more likely to listen in return. Paraphrasing their point not only shows you’re paying attention but also gives you a chance to subtly reframe it in a way that supports your argument. Plus, it makes you sound thoughtful and fair. If they know you’ve at least considered where they’re coming from, they might be more amenable to offer the same.
5. “I think we’re both trying to achieve the same thing here.”
This positions you as an ally rather than an opponent, which is obviously ideal. It changes the conversation from “me versus you” to “us versus the problem,” which is way more persuasive. People are more likely to agree with someone they feel is on their side.
6. “That’s a great point, and it actually ties into…”
Complimenting the other person’s argument before introducing your own makes you sound cooperative and confident. It also keeps the debate flowing smoothly rather than feeling like a verbal tug-of-war. People are more inclined to listen when they don’t feel dismissed.
7. “Here’s a thought experiment: what if…?”
Asking someone to imagine a different scenario takes the pressure off the current argument. It’s an engaging way to present your perspective without outright challenging theirs. This approach encourages curiosity and often leads to more open-minded discussions.
8. “Let’s break this down into smaller parts.”
Complex issues can overwhelm people, making it harder to reach an agreement. By suggesting a step-by-step breakdown, you come across as logical and solution-oriented. It’s like saying, “Let’s untangle this together,” which is inherently persuasive.
9. “What’s your biggest concern about this?”
Inviting someone to share their hesitation shows you’re interested in understanding their perspective. Once they’ve voiced their concern, you can address it directly, making your argument more targeted and effective. It’s a little like saying, “Let’s tackle this obstacle together.”
10. “I understand that, but what about in this case…?”
Source: Unsplash This one acknowledges the validity of their point while introducing an exception that supports your argument. It’s a respectful way to challenge their view without outright dismissing it, keeping the conversation constructive and engaging.
11. “Let’s focus on what we can agree on first.”
Source: Unsplash When debates feel heated, this helps cool things down. It creates a sense of collaboration and makes people less defensive. Starting with common ground makes it easier to work through disagreements without things spiralling out of control.
12. “Here’s why this matters to me…”
Source: Unsplash Sharing personal stakes or values makes your argument more relatable and harder to ignore. People are often persuaded by emotional connections, and this invites them to see the debate through your lens. It humanises your argument and builds rapport.
13. “How would this work in practice?”
Source: Unsplash This encourages people to think beyond theory and consider real-world applications. It’s especially useful for challenging vague ideas without outright calling them impractical. You’re nudging them to see potential flaws while sounding genuinely curious.
14. “Can we explore a middle ground here?”
Source: Unsplash Suggesting a compromise shows you’re reasonable and willing to meet halfway, which is instantly disarming. Even if the debate isn’t fully resolved, proposing a middle ground often paves the way for mutual respect and future collaboration. It’s about finding solutions, not winning arguments.
