What role do 'opinion phrases' play in Speaking?

• A. They help express stance clearly and invite discussion.
• B. They confuse the listener.
• C. They are unnecessary.
• D. They only summarize the question.

Answer: (A)

Using opinion phrases in Speaking is about clearly signaling your stance and inviting discussion. When you say things like “In my opinion,” “I think,” or “As far as I’m concerned,” you make your position explicit and guide the conversation toward your viewpoint. This is important in an FCE-style speaking test because examiners want to see that you can express a viewpoint and respond to others, not just repeat questions.

Opinion phrases also help the talk flow by framing what you’ll say next, showing you’re contributing, and encouraging the other person to agree, disagree, or add ideas. They help with coherence by signaling shifts or contrasts, so your talk stays easy to follow.

The other ideas don’t fit as well because they don’t emphasize your viewpoint or invite response. If you’re not stating a view, the contribution can feel flat or vague, and simply summarizing the question doesn’t move the discussion forward. In short, expressing opinions clearly and inviting discussion is what makes a productive speaking exchange.