Opinions · part 2 — it depends

Give a nuanced opinion that sees both sides.

「場合による」と、ニュアンスのある意見を言えるようになりましょう。

Key English phrases

I'd say ~, but it depends.
It depends on ~.
There's a case for both.
It's not that simple.

Example conversation

ACity break or beach holiday — which is better?
BHonestly, I'd say it depends on what you need.
AHow so?
BIt depends on your mood. There's a case for both — a beach to switch off, a city to feel alive.
AThat's a fair point.
BIt's not that simple to call a winner.

In context

Not every opinion is black and white. Ask me 'city or beach?' and I'd say it honestly depends — on your mood, the budget, who you're with. There's a genuine case for both: a beach to switch off, a city to feel alive. I think it's a sign of a thoughtful opinion to admit it's not that simple, rather than forcing a winner. Nuance can be more honest than a hot take. When do you find yourself saying 'it depends'?

When to use it · practice

Drew asks you to pick a winner. Say it depends, with reasons.
Drewが勝者を決めるよう求めます。理由とともに「場合による」と言いましょう。
See both sides. Say there's a case for both.
両方の見方をしましょう。「どちらにも一理ある」と言いましょう。
Resist a simple answer. Say it's not that simple.
単純な答えを避けましょう。「そう単純じゃない」と言いましょう。

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