Is there a word/phrase for what I am thinking of?

Question

Hi! So I am currently writing an essay that all depends on whether or not I agree with a statement about the topic of a book we are reading. In the essay, I would like to begin with summarizing the argument of the author of a review essay and then moving on to my opinion.

However, in my directive introductory paragraph, I need to allude to the upcoming opinion of agreement/disagreement but I do not wish to give away my stance on the issue until I arrive at that point in the essay text.

So, my question is, how can I, in a word or short statement, express that I maybe I agree, maybe I don't, but you will have to read on to find out?

Thank you, I hope my question is not too confusing.

Answer 1

I think what you might need to introduce your argument is a few sentences that set up the two sides of the argument. Many people believe that xyz is true, however another group argues that abc is true.

or

It has long been argued that xyz is better, but recently many folks have begun to realize that in fact abc might be more appropriate...

 

This introduces both the counterargument and your argument in a few short sentences while also providing a larger context to what you want to argue in your piece.

Answer 2

She's not one of my favorite people, but Hillary Rodham Clinton said, "I also learned that a person was not necessarily bad just because you did not agree with him, and that if you believed in something, you had better be prepared to defend it.” That quote has made me realize again that a person is different than their opinion.  The person might make either a wonderful or a ridiculous statement about <insert name of book you are reading>, while still being a really nice person.  I have formed my opinion about the statement in question (" <include the statement> ") and, as Ms. Clinton says, I'm about to defend it.  You should find my opinion to be thorough and thoughtful, while still respecting me as a person.  The reviewer thinks that ... <summary>.  Is his statement thorough and thoughtful?

 

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I'd use the preceding paragraph (or similar).  Be sure to ask a question about the points you are going to make.  That doesn't give your answer and it keeps the reader reading.  You might also list both pro's and con's in questions -- Do you think Spring is really here or are we just being wishful?     "Thought questions" keep readers thinking.

 

Often, in a debate, the topic is listed in the form:  "Resolved: <one view>"  and the debaters argue for or against it.

 

 

Answer 3

I'm not familiar with a specific word or phrase for what you describe...I think I understand the ? posed, but think this is a subjective matter.

 

If your teacher/grader/person who you are writing the essay for is looking to find out your opinion in your thesis statement...then it is probably a good idea to share this information up front...

 

However, If you are in fact on the fence about your opinion...when you write an op-ed piece (an opinionated essay) it is fair to share multiple opinions on a topic and why you agree/disagree with various sides of the argument.

 

Hopefully this gives you a little better direction on how to write your essay!