B1 Dialog #100 Talking about arguing

Today we are going to talk about arguing in English. As always you can read the text in the PDF which you can find in the description. Follow our podcasts on iTunes and Yandex Music. For more new dialogs subscribe to our channel.

How to work with the dialog?

  1. Listen to the dialog and read the PDF transcript. Turn on subtitles if necessary.
  2. Listen to the dialog again, repeating the questions and answers aloud (!!!).
  3. Come up with your own answers to the questions. Use PDF vocabulary if needed.
  4. Listen to the questions and answer them aloud (!!!), with a correct intonation, pronunciation and rhythm.
  5. Come back to the video from time to time and repeat the exercise.

Talking about arguing

(1) What springs to mind when you hear the word ‘argue’?

“To argue” means to give reasons for or against something. When I hear this word I think about my friend, who likes arguing a lot.

(2) How good are you at arguing?

It depends on the topic we argue about. Sometimes I am good, sometimes I prefer to keep quiet and not to start arguing. 

(3) Are there any good things about arguing?

Of course. Argument teaches us how to evaluate different points and judge your opponents’ position appropriately. Argument helps us learn to clarify our thoughts and use them correctly. Not everyone can do that.

(4) Who is the worst person to argue with? Why?

The worst people to argue are people who argue with force and no logic. Those that are proven wrong, and can’t accept that they are wrong.

(5) Who is the most argumentative person you know?

One of my friends likes arguing a lot. It’s so hard to talk to her sometimes.

(6) What do people usually argue about?

There are a lot of different topics people can argue about. It mostly depends on the situation. Politics is the hottest topic I think, but not everyone likes talking about it. 

(7) Is it wrong to argue with your elders?

In most cases it’s not good. It’s better not to start arguing with your elders. Even if you know you are right.

(8) How often do you feel frustrated in an argument?

Not often. Normally I don’t argue with people. I don’t like it.

(9) What was the last argument you had?

I can’t remember. I think it was pretty long ago.

(10) Have you ever lost a friend because of an argument?

Once I lost a good fellow, because of some stuped situation we argued about. I can’t say it was my friend, but anyway. 

Anya —–> Rinat

(1) What do you like and dislike about arguing?

Arguing can make conflicts. Even with closest people. That’s why I don’t like it. As for some proffesinal topics at my work I like to argue about it sometimes. So my colleagues and I can find a better solution.

(2) What’s the best way to win an argument?

The best way to win an argument is to prove your reasons and ideas. You need to use logic and facts as evidence for your position. And stay calm. Never let emotions control you.

(3) Is it better to avoid arguments?

I can’t say exactly, because it pretty much depends on the situation. Sometimes it’s better to avoid arguments.

(4) What kind of arguments do you dislike?

I hate talking and arguing about politics. Religion is also a taboo for me. I don’t like such kinds of topics.

(5) What do you think of heated arguments?

Truth is born of arguments. Heated arguments are good when they bring results. 

(6) What do you think of anyone you argue with?

We all see the world differently. I always try to respect my opponents’ position, their thoughts and opinions.

(7) How do you end an argument quickly?

Usually I say “You may be right.” This works because it shows my willingness to compromise.  

“I understand.” is one more powerful phrase. 

(8) What topics would you never argue about?

As I said, I don’t like arguing about politics. Especially now.

(9) What is the best way to make up after an argument?

I try to reconnect with my friend and apologize if needed. It’s important to talk and not to keep away from each other.

(10) Who do you not like to see arguing? Why?

I don’t like when my friends or colleagues make conflicts because of arguing. It’s always important to keep to yourself and not to lose control.