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Meetings · part 2 — making your point

Stay skeptical and handle disagreement gracefully.

健全な懐疑を保ち、意見の相違を上手にさばけるようになりましょう。

Key English phrases

I'd take that with a pinch of salt — ~.
Let's not jump to conclusions.
We may have to agree to disagree on ~.
I respect that, but ~.

Example conversation

AThe report says demand will double.
BI'd take that with a pinch of salt — it's one source.
AFair. But the trend supports it.
BLet's not jump to conclusions on one quarter.
AWe may have to agree to disagree.
BI respect that, but let's track it before we commit.

In context

Listen to a careful skeptic. 'I'd take that forecast with a pinch of salt — it's based on a single quarter, which is thin. Let's not jump to conclusions or commit big money yet. I know others feel strongly, and we may have to agree to disagree for now. I respect that, but my vote is to track it for a month before deciding.'

When to use it · practice

Someone cites a shaky number. Treat it with healthy skepticism.
だれかが当てにならない数字を挙げます。健全な懐疑で受け止めましょう。
The room is rushing to decide. Slow it down.
部屋が結論を急いでいます。落ち着かせましょう。
You and a colleague won't align. Disagree gracefully.
同僚と意見が合いません。上手に意見の相違を認めましょう。

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