English Vocabulary in Use Upper-intermediate » Unit 42: Belief and opinion
Are you … ? Consider how many of these words apply to you, and explain why. Some ideas for situations are given in the box to help you decide. Write sentences about yourself.
EXAMPLE: I don't think I'm a moralist because I wouldn't try to impose my views about religious or other morality on other people.
a moralist left-wing an intellectual a traditionalist a philosopher middle-of-the-road a radical thinker dedicated
You probably already know think and believe; here are some more verbs.
I'm convinced we've met before. [very strong feeling that you're right]
I've always held that compulsory education is a waste of time. [used for very firm beliefs; fml; maintain could be used here]
She maintains that we're related, but I'm not convinced. [insist on believing, often against the evidence; fml; hold could not be used here]
I feel she shouldn't be forced to do the job. [strong personal opinion]
I reckon they'll get married soon. [ usually an opinion about what is likely to happen I to be true; infmn]
I doubt /daʊt/ we'll ever see total world peace. [don't believe]
I suspect a lot of people never even think about pollution when they're driving their own car. [have a strong feeling about something negative; fairly formal]
We haven't made any progress, in my view / in my opinion. (fairly formal)
She's made a big mistake, to my mind. (fairly informal)
If you ask me, he ought to change his job. (infml)
Note how point of view is used in English:
From a teacher's point of view, the new examinations are a disaster. [how teachers see things, or are affected]
Notice the prepositions in these phrases: In my opinion/view but to my mind and from my point of view. (NOT in my mind or in my point of view)
Do you believe in life after death? What are your views on divorce? What do you think of the new boss?
Are you for or against long prison sentences? (neutral/infml)
I'm in favour of ( opp opposed to; fml) long prison sentences.
I have my doubts about this plan.
If you would rather organise this word tree differently or can add more examples, do so; it will probably help you to remember the words better.
These are in sets which have similar, but not exactly the same, meaning: fanatical / obsessive eccentric / odd / weird conservative / traditional middle-of-the-road / moderate dedicated / committed firm / strong radical / extreme
Jason is a fanatical supporter of the Green Party.
Grandpa has rather eccentric views.
Maria is a moderate liberal.
Rosie is a committed Christian.
Emma is a firm believer in free speech.
Tom is a radical Marxist.
The words you need to communicate with confidence. Vocabulary explanations and practice for elementary level (A2) learners of English. Perfect for both self-study and classroom activities. Quickly expand your vocabulary with 60 units of easy to understand explanations and practice exercises.
The words you need to communicate with confidence. Vocabulary explanations and practice for pre-intermediate and intermediate level (B1) learners of English. Perfect for both self-study and classroom activities. Quickly expand your vocabulary with 100 units of easy to understand explanations and practice exercises.
The words you need to communicate with confidence. Vocabulary explanations and practice for advanced level (C1 to C2) learners of English. Perfect for both self-study and classroom activities. Quickly expand your vocabulary with over 100 units of easy to understand explanations and practice exercises.