“I’m not sure I agree that there are no aliens out there in space. What do you think?”
“I think…”
Let’s pause there for a moment. The phrase “I think” is so overused. If you want to sound more natural – and more British – when expressing your opinion, you’re in the right place.
Today, I’ll show you 9 expressions that British people commonly use instead of “I think.” By the end of this lesson, you’ll have some brilliant new vocabulary up your sleeve to make you sound much more like a native speaker.
In this lesson I will take you through two ways in which you can share your opinions 🇬🇧
🔹 Polite & Formal
These are perfect for professional settings, polite discussions, or whenever you’d like to soften your opinion. In Britain, it’s very common to soften what you say – not because you’re unsure, but because it sounds more polite.
✨ “I suppose…”
Used when you’re offering a hesitant or slightly unsure opinion.
Example: “I suppose it could work, but I’m not entirely convinced.”
✨ “It seems to me that…”
A thoughtful and polite way to share your perspective.
Example: “It seems to me that he’s not really interested in the project.”
✨ “I’d say…”
A gentle way to state your belief without sounding too forceful.
Example: “I’d say she’s doing a fantastic job so far.”
✨ “As far as I’m concerned…”
Expresses your personal stance, often when you’re ready to move on.
Example: “As far as I’m concerned, the matter is closed.”
🔹 Informal & Conversational
These are what you’ll hear in everyday chats with friends, family, or colleagues.
😏 “I reckon…”
A very British, informal way of saying “I think”.
Example: “I reckon they’ll be late again – they always are.”
😬 “I’m not being funny, but…”
Often used before giving a blunt or critical opinion.
Example: “I’m not being funny, but that was a terrible idea.”
🤔 “I mean…”
Adds emphasis or shows disbelief/frustration.
Example: “I mean, what were they thinking when they planned that?”
🙃 “To be honest…” / “TBH…”
A casual way to introduce a frank or critical opinion.
Example: “To be honest, I didn’t enjoy it at all.”
💭 “If you ask me…”
A slightly more personal way of sharing your opinion.
Example: “If you ask me, they should’ve just left it as it was.”
So there you have it – nine ways to express your opinion like a Brit! Whether you’re speaking formally or just having a chat with your mates, you’ve now got a wider range of expressions instead of always falling back on “I think.”
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