- A phrase used to acknowledge that you understand and recognize the validity of someone's argument or statement before introducing a contrasting point or disagreement.
- It's a polite way to disagree or offer an alternative perspective.
Explanation
Origin
- Rooted in polite discourse and debate strategies.
- Acknowledging the other person's viewpoint (taking their point) shows respect and careful listening before presenting one's own differing view.
- Common in discussions, meetings, and debates.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
More Direct Disagreement:
- I disagree because...
- Actually, I think...
- No, that's not right because...
More Emphatic/Informal Disagreement:
- Yeah, but... (Very common, less formal)
- Hold on, though...
- But look...
Slang/Dismissive (Use with caution):
- Whatever, but... (Dismissive)
- Okay genius, but... (Sarcastic)
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate for semi-formal and formal discussions (meetings, debates, polite arguments).
- Also used in informal conversations when aiming for respectful disagreement.
- Shows consideration for the other speaker's view.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Non-native speakers might focus too much on the I take your point part and miss the significance of the but, which signals disagreement or a counter-point is coming. The main message follows the but.
Examples
- I take your point about the cost savings, but I'm concerned about the quality.
- Okay, I take your point, but have you considered the long-term implications?
- I take your point that it's convenient, but is it really secure?
Dialogue
Sam: We should definitely launch the product next month to beat the competition.
Lena: I take your point about beating the competition, but the user testing isn't finished yet, and launching with bugs could be disastrous.
Sam: That's true. How much longer do you think testing will take?
Lena: At least another two weeks to be thorough.
Social Media Examples
- Forum Reply: I take your point about the benefits of approach A, but have we fully considered the risks outlined in section 3?
- Twitter Thread response: @UserX I take your point that the stats look good initially, but the sample size is too small for definitive conclusions. #DataAnalysis
- Comment on an article: I take your point, but the author ignores the historical context which completely changes the narrative.
Response Patterns
- Listening to the counter-argument.
- Defending their original point: Well, regarding the quality...
- Conceding partially: Okay, that's also a valid concern.
- Asking for clarification: What specifically are your concerns about the quality?
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
- The person using the phrase immediately follows with their counter-argument or concern.
- The listener then responds to this new point. The conversation continues, focusing on the disagreement.
Conversation Starter
- No. It's a response within a discussion or argument.
Intonation
- Stress often falls on take and point, showing acknowledgement.
- A slight pause often occurs before but.
- The tone on but might shift slightly to signal the introduction of the counter-argument. I TAKE your POINT, (pause) but...
Generation Differences
- Commonly used across adult generations engaged in discussions.
Regional Variations
- Common in most English-speaking regions, particularly British and American English in professional or structured discussion contexts.