These powerful expressions instantly boost your credibility while disarming even the most stubborn opponents.
The difference between winning and losing an argument often comes down to a handful of perfectly timed phrases. We’ve all witnessed that person who somehow manages to navigate heated discussions with remarkable composure, emerging victorious without creating enemies along the way. While you might attribute their success to natural talent or superior knowledge, the truth is much simpler.
We’ve identified linguistic patterns that consistently shift power dynamics in any conversation, and the beauty of these verbal techniques is that they don’t require special expertise or years of practice. Anyone can incorporate these expressions into everyday discussions and immediately notice the difference in how people respond to their ideas and perspectives.
1. That’s a fascinating perspective, and here’s what I’ve observed.
Acknowledging someone’s viewpoint before presenting your own makes you sound open-minded and thoughtful, according to researchers at the National Library of Medicine. Instead of jumping straight into disagreement, you validate their opinion, which lowers their defenses. Then, smoothly transition into your own insights.
This phrase signals that you’ve considered multiple viewpoints and have something valuable to add. It shifts the conversation from a battle of opinions to a productive discussion. Plus, it subtly positions you as someone who thinks critically rather than reacting emotionally. When you phrase it this way, people are more likely to listen—and even reconsider their stance.
2. I used to believe that too, until I learned about…
This statement is powerful because it creates common ground before introducing new information. By admitting that you once shared their belief, you make yourself relatable and less confrontational. Then, by explaining what changed your mind, you naturally invite curiosity instead of resistance.
People are much more open to considering new ideas when they see that others have evolved their thinking too — a phenomenon known as the Bandwagon Effect, as stated by Dan Pilat writing for Decision Lab. It also gives the impression that you’re well-informed and have done your research. Instead of making someone feel wrong, it encourages them to explore new possibilities alongside you.
3. Let’s make sure I understand you correctly.
When a conversation gets heated, clarity is your best friend. This phrase helps you slow things down and ensures that you’re not misinterpreting the other person’s argument. It also forces them to clarify their position—sometimes even revealing flaws they hadn’t noticed.
More importantly, it makes you seem fair and level-headed rather than reactionary. People respect those who take the time to listen before responding, as studied by experts at the National Library of Medicine. And, if their argument is weak or inconsistent, this phrase gives them a chance to realize it on their own without you having to point it out directly.
4. Current research suggests a different conclusion.
When opinions are clashing, bringing in facts elevates your argument. Instead of making it about personal beliefs, this phrase shifts the conversation to evidence and data. It subtly implies that your perspective is backed by credible sources, making it harder to dismiss.
People may argue opinions all day long, but research adds weight that’s tough to ignore. This phrase also invites curiosity—if they truly care about the topic, they’ll want to know more. Just be sure you actually have the facts to back it up, because nothing kills credibility faster than making a claim you can’t support.
5. I appreciate your conviction, and I’m curious about…
Here’s one that’s a great way to keep the conversation civil while challenging someone’s point of view. Instead of outright disagreeing, you recognize their passion and follow up with a question that prompts deeper thinking. This technique works especially well when someone is being stubborn or emotional.
It disarms defensiveness and encourages a more open exchange. The key here is to genuinely express curiosity. If you come off as sarcastic or dismissive, it won’t have the same effect. But when used sincerely, it can make even the most argumentative person stop and reconsider their stance.
6. We might both be overlooking something important here.
This phrase shifts the conversation from a debate into a collaborative problem-solving session. Instead of treating it as “me vs. you,” it reframes the discussion as “let’s figure this out together.” It also plants the idea that neither side has all the answers—there might be a crucial detail that hasn’t been considered.
This makes it easier for the other person to backtrack or adjust their stance without feeling like they’re admitting defeat. Plus, it makes you seem wise and thoughtful rather than just trying to win the argument.
7. This nuanced issue deserves careful consideration.
Complex topics rarely have simple answers, and this phrase reminds everyone of that. It signals that you recognize the depth of the issue, which makes you seem well-reasoned and intelligent. It also subtly challenges people who are making oversimplified or emotionally charged arguments.
By advocating for deeper analysis, you put yourself in the position of a rational thinker while encouraging others to approach the conversation with the same level of thoughtfulness. The more people are forced to think critically, the more likely they are to recognize gaps in their own reasoning.
8. I find it helpful to distinguish between…
This phrase allows you to introduce important distinctions without directly contradicting someone. Many arguments stem from blurred definitions, conflated ideas, or misunderstandings. By breaking things down into clear categories, you can help shift the conversation in a more logical direction.
It also positions you as someone who truly understands the topic rather than just debating on surface-level opinions. People respect those who can untangle complex issues and present them in a way that makes sense. It also forces your opponent to clarify their position, often revealing inconsistencies in their thinking.
9. That raises an important question about underlying assumptions.
Many arguments are built on hidden assumptions that people don’t even realize they’re making. This phrase helps you bring those to light without directly attacking the other person’s viewpoint. It encourages deeper thinking and often forces your opponent to reexamine their position.
If their entire argument is based on shaky assumptions, this technique can completely unravel it. Plus, it makes you sound highly analytical—like someone who doesn’t just accept ideas at face value but digs deeper to understand the foundation of an issue.
10. Let me share a concrete example that illustrates my point.
Abstract arguments are easy to dismiss, but a well-chosen example can make your point impossible to ignore. This phrase allows you to ground your argument in reality, making it more relatable and persuasive. People are much more likely to remember and accept an idea when it’s attached to a concrete example.
It also prevents debates from getting stuck in hypothetical territory, which often leads to endless back-and-forth with no resolution. A strong, real-world example can make your position stick in someone’s mind long after the conversation is over.
11. We actually agree on something fundamental here.
One of the best ways to win an argument is to find common ground first. This phrase helps disarm tension and makes the other person more receptive to your perspective. Once you highlight a shared belief, they’ll be less likely to see you as an adversary and more likely to actually listen.
It’s a psychological trick—when people feel like they’re working with you instead of against you, they become less defensive. From there, you can guide the conversation in a way that subtly challenges their assumptions without triggering instant resistance.
12. I’ve explored multiple perspectives on this issue.
Here’s a statement that establishes you as someone who is well-informed and open-minded. It suggests that you haven’t just accepted one viewpoint blindly, but have done your homework and considered different angles. This immediately gives your argument more credibility.
People respect those who are willing to engage with opposing viewpoints rather than just defending their own. It also makes it harder for someone to dismiss you as biased or uninformed. If they’ve only considered one side of the argument, this phrase subtly encourages them to broaden their perspective as well.
13. Based on what matters most in this situation…
This phrase helps you steer the conversation toward priorities and values rather than just abstract disagreements. Often, debates get stuck in unnecessary details, but this phrase refocuses everything on what’s truly important. It also allows you to frame the discussion in a way that aligns with your argument. By identifying key priorities, you can highlight why your viewpoint best addresses the real issue at hand. It’s a strategic way to make your case while making it difficult for the other person to argue against your logic without seeming dismissive of what actually matters.