Spoken English Conversation: Expressing Opinions / Preferences
Expressing opinions and preferences is an important part of spoken English. It helps learners share their thoughts, likes, dislikes, and choices in daily conversations.
By practicing simple opinion-based dialogues, English learners can speak more confidently in discussions, meetings, and casual talks.
This topic focuses on using easy and natural sentences to express personal views clearly.
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Riya – a university student who loves movies and music
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Neha – her best friend, interested in books and travel
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Arjun – a mutual friend, tech-savvy and into video games
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Location: College cafeteria, afternoon break
Riya:
Hey Neha, hey Arjun! It’s such a relief to finally sit down after that long lecture.
Neha:
Tell me about it! That economics class felt like it went on forever.
So, what’s everyone doing this weekend?
Arjun:
I was thinking of staying in and playing some new video games. There’s this new racing game I’ve been dying to try.
Riya:
Video games again? I don’t really enjoy them that much. Personally, I’d rather go to the movies. There’s a new romantic comedy releasing this Friday.
Neha:
Oh, I think I saw the trailer! It looked funny, but I’m not a big fan of rom-coms. I prefer thrillers or documentaries. What about you, Arjun?
Arjun:
Honestly, I prefer action or sci-fi movies. Rom-coms just feel too predictable to me.
Riya:
I get that. But I like light-hearted films. After a long week of studying, I just want something relaxing and fun.
What’s your opinion on horror movies?
Neha:
To be honest, I don’t like them at all. I find them too disturbing. I prefer stories that make me think, like psychological thrillers or crime dramas.
Arjun:
I enjoy horror once in a while, especially with friends. Watching alone? No, thanks!
Riya:
Same here! I can watch horror, but only if someone else is with me.
Speaking of preferences, what kind of music do you all like?
Neha:
Good question. I personally love classical and indie music. The lyrics in indie songs usually have more depth.
Arjun:
That’s interesting. I prefer electronic and hip-hop. I like music that pumps me up and keeps me energized, especially during workouts.
Riya:
I’m more into pop and Bollywood music. I just enjoy catchy tunes. Lyrics matter, but rhythm is more important to me.
Neha:
It’s amazing how different our tastes are! But I guess that’s what makes conversations like this interesting.
By the way, how do you feel about traveling?
Riya:
Oh, I love traveling! If I had the money and time, I’d be exploring a new city every month. Beaches, mountains, historical places—I love them all!
Arjun:
Really? I don’t enjoy traveling as much. I prefer staying home, playing games, and just relaxing. I think traveling is tiring.
Neha:
That’s surprising. I enjoy traveling a lot too, especially to quiet places like hill stations or villages. I feel more connected to nature there.
Riya:
Exactly! I think traveling broadens your perspective. You get to experience different cultures and cuisines.
Arjun:
I agree that it can be educational, but I just prefer staying in one place. I guess I’m more of a homebody.
Neha:
And that’s okay! Everyone has their own preferences.
Let’s talk about food now. What kind of food do you like best?
Riya:
That’s tough! But if I had to choose, I’d say I prefer Italian food—especially pasta and pizza. I never get bored of it.
Arjun:
I disagree. I think Indian food is the best. It’s rich, flavorful, and full of variety. I especially love spicy dishes.
Neha:
I’m somewhere in between. I enjoy Indian food, but I also love trying international cuisines. I like experimenting with new tastes.
Riya:
That’s true. Trying new food is a great way to learn about other cultures.
Do you all prefer tea or coffee?
Arjun:
Coffee, definitely. I can’t start my day without it. I feel sleepy otherwise.
Neha:
I prefer tea, especially herbal or green tea. It’s lighter and feels healthier.
Riya:
Same here. I like tea more. I do drink coffee sometimes, but only when I need to stay awake for studies!
Neha:
What about books versus movies? Which do you like better?
Riya:
I love watching movies. I’m a visual person. I like seeing things happen rather than reading about them.
Arjun:
Same here. Movies are faster and more entertaining for me.
Neha:
I prefer books. I like imagining the scenes and getting into the characters’ thoughts. It’s a deeper experience.
Riya:
I respect that. I just don’t have the patience for long novels anymore.
Neha:
Fair enough.
So, quick question: If you had to choose between living in the city or the countryside, what would you pick?
Riya:
City, without a doubt. I like the fast-paced lifestyle and having everything nearby—malls, cinemas, restaurants…
Arjun:
I agree. I prefer the convenience of the city. Even though it’s noisy and crowded, there’s always something happening.
Neha:
I think I’d choose the countryside. It’s more peaceful, and the air is cleaner. I don’t like traffic and pollution.
Riya:
Yeah, that’s a valid point. Sometimes I wish we could have the best of both worlds.
Arjun:
That would be ideal. Live in the city on weekdays and escape to the countryside on weekends!
Neha:
Now that sounds perfect!
What about fashion—do you prefer comfort or style?
Riya:
Style! I love dressing up, especially for events or outings. Fashion is a form of expression for me.
Arjun:
Comfort all the way. I usually wear hoodies, jeans, and sneakers. I don’t really care about trends.
Neha:
I prefer a balance of both. I want to look good but also feel comfortable in what I wear.
Riya:
That’s practical. Fashion should reflect your personality, I think.
Neha:
Totally.
This has been such a fun conversation. It’s great to learn about each other’s likes and dislikes.
Arjun:
Yeah, and it helps us understand each other better.
Riya:
Agreed! We all have different opinions and preferences, and that’s what makes life colorful.
Neha:
Well said! Let’s continue this chat over some snacks?
Riya & Arjun:
Absolutely!
Key Phrases for Expressing Opinions & Preferences:
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Personally, I prefer…
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I think that…
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In my opinion…
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I don’t really enjoy…
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I love / like / enjoy…
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I’m not a big fan of…
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To be honest…
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I find it…
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I agree / I disagree…
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That’s a valid point…
