Hey guys, just want to share what I've studied before. First of all, I graduated from University overseas. During my study, the most difficult part in a conversation in a competitive academic environment, at least for me, was the moment when facing a group discussions or a seminar with my other colleagues.

Why, first, of course this is not my first language. Second, in a seminar or a group discussion with other fellow classmates in an academic environment using english language, the most important thing is to share our thoughts with others while maintaining the flow of the discussion, so the discussion can keep going.

You know what, it's really hard at first, because you must pick your words wisely, why?? First to avoid the 'blank moment' and also to reduce the silent moment in order to keep the discussion flows smoothly and to achieve its goal. Second, to encourage others to share their thoughts. Third, to share your own thoughts even if you have different opinions with others, of course with selective expressions to avoid conflict or dead lock. Last but not least, to interrupt someone diplomatically.

So yeah, below I will share some language functions which can keep the discussion going. And don't forget, practice makes perfect!

1. Agreeing with someone
Expressions that I will use :
“I couldn’t agree more”
“That’s a very good point”
“You’ve got a very good point there”
“I fully support what you say”
“I totally agree”
“Exactly!”

2. Disagreeing with someone
Expressions that I will use :
“But don’t you think that…?”
“I see what you mean, but…?”
“I take your point, but…”
“I’m afraid I can’t agree with…..on this matter”
“I wouldn’t say that”

3. Summarising what you have decided so far
Expressions that I will use :
“So…”
“We’ve seen that….”
“In short”
“To sum up”
“In brief, we have looked at….”

4. Asking for reasons or someone to extend their answer
Expressions that I will use :
“That’s not really what I was asking. My question is about”
“Perhaps I didn’t make my question clear. In fact what I asked was”
“Sorry, I’m still not clear about”

5. Conceding (recognising that the other person is actually right)
Expressions that I will use :
“Yes you may be right”

6. Encouraging other people to participate
Expressions that I will use :
“Does anyone has any comments or questions”
“So is this the same as your experience?”
“So,…., what is your opinion of this?”

7. Moving on to the next point
Expressions that I will use :
“I’d like now to move on to….”
“Turning now to…”
“Moving on now to…”
“The Next point is…”

8. Interrupting someone diplomatically
Expressions that I will use :
“If I could just come in here”
“Sorry to interrupt, but…”
“I’d just like to say that”

9. Finishing your point after being interrupted too soon
Expressions that I will use :
“Now I will continue to my……”
“Let me continue…..”

Hope you guys find it useful, cheers!