words to replace i believe in an essay

19 Other Ways to Say “I Believe” in an Essay

If you’re wondering how to say “I believe” in an essay without using first-person phrasing, you’ve come to the right place!

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of synonyms that you can use instead of saying “I believe” in an essay. We’ll also discuss whether you should use the original phrase at all.

Other Ways to Say “I Believe”

One might argue
It would seem
This suggests
It is my belief
As I see it
From my perspective
It could be argued
I would argue
This illustrates
This evidences
In my opinion
This proves
In the author’s opinion

KEY TAKEAWAYS

It’s okay to use “I believe” in an essay if the person grading your paper permits you to use personal pronouns.
You can say “one might argue” if you want to use a more formal alternative in the third person.
“It appears” is another good option that removes the personal pronoun “I.”

Don’t go anywhere! In the next section, we’ll discuss two great alternatives for the phrase “I believe” that you can use in your academic writing.

Moreover, we’ll provide some helpful examples and discuss whether it’s a bad idea to use “I believe” in your essay.

One Might Argue

If you’re wondering what to say instead of “I believe” in an essay, a great choice is “one might argue.”

Some academics may view this alternative as superior to the original phrase. After all, it is written in the third person. Therefore, you can get the same point across without using “I.” In some formal academic essays , it is expected by markers that personal pronouns should be avoided.

Additionally, this alternative makes it clear that your statement isn’t certain, just like the original. The word “might” implies that you are expressing an opinion or making just a potential argument.

Finally, let’s see how one might use this phrase in a few examples:

One might argue that the individual responsibility of consumers to buy sustainable products is far less than the responsibility that should be placed on large industries.

Although our findings show that fewer children are taking an interest in mathematics, one might argue that this has more to do with the teaching style of educators rather than the content of the subject itself.

Another way to say “I believe” without using the first person is “it appears.”

Like the original phrase, this one indicates that the statement following it is not certain. In fact, it is simply an observation .

Although this phrase is not necessarily superior to “I believe,” it does remove the personal pronoun “I,” which is often seen as preferable by teachers and professors.

It also has the benefit of using the same number of words as “I believe.” Therefore, it won’t increase your word count , unlike some of the other synonyms on our list.

To see this phrase in action, have a look at the examples below:

It appears that several of the mice in our experiment exhibited empathy when faced with one of their fellows trapped in a cage.

Although Otis Blackwell was a clear stylistic inspiration to Elvis, in addition to being the writer of many of his popular songs, it appears that only a small minority of the public is privy to this truth.

Can I Use “I Believe” in an Essay?

Whether it is okay to use “I believe” in an essay greatly depends on context .

There are some academics and writers out there who think using phrases like “I believe” is bad writing . Firstly, they argue that it is redundant . Obviously, you believe the statement you’re making, or you wouldn’t be making it in the first place!

Secondly, some academics think that personal pronouns should be avoided in academic writing . Therefore, it’s no good to start your statements with “I.”

On the other hand, in recent times, many academics have argued that all forms of education and information should be accessible. This means that everyone should be able to follow and understand them – not just people who were privileged enough to get a university education!

People who hold this opinion say that a phrase like “I believe” is perfectly effective. After all, it lets the reader know that you are expressing an opinion and not a fact. Additionally, it is straightforward and easy for any reader to follow.

Therefore, as a rule of thumb, we would always recommend speaking to the person who is going to grade your essay before you start . If they are a traditionalist and would prefer very formal writing, use one of our alternatives.

If they are happy to read a paper with personal pronouns and straightforward writing in it, go ahead and use “I believe.”

In conclusion, it’s okay to use “I believe” if the person marking your essay is okay with it!

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20 Other Ways to Say “I Believe” in an Essay

Expressing one’s beliefs or opinions effectively is crucial in writing essays, reports, or any form of communication. However, repetition can make your writing seem monotonous.

Diversifying your vocabulary can enhance your expression and engage your readers more effectively. Below, we explore 20 alternative phrases to convey the same sentiment as “I believe,” along with scenario examples for

List of Other Ways to Say “I Believe” in an Essay

In my opinion,
As I see it,
From my perspective,
In my view,
It is my conviction that,
To my understanding,
As far as I’m concerned,
In my estimation,
From my standpoint,
It seems to me that,
As I understand it,
In my judgment,
In my experience,
It’s my belief that,
From my vantage point,
As I perceive it,
In my assessment,
To my way of thinking,
In my mind,
As I interpret it.

In My Opinion

Scenario Example:

Dear Royal,

I hope this email finds you well. In my opinion , the marketing strategy proposed for our upcoming product launch lacks innovation. I believe we should consider incorporating more interactive elements to captivate our target audience.

Looking forward to discussing this further.

Best regards, Oscar

This phrase asserts the writer’s personal viewpoint without imposing it as an absolute truth.
It’s commonly used in casual and formal settings to express subjectivity.

As I See It

I trust you’re doing well. As I see it , the recent changes in our organizational structure may lead to inefficiencies in our workflow. I’m of the opinion that we need to reassess the distribution of responsibilities to maintain productivity.

Let’s schedule a meeting to brainstorm potential solutions.

This phrase suggests that the writer’s perspective is shaped by their perception or understanding of the situation.
It’s suitable for expressing insights or interpretations.

From My Perspective

I hope you’re having a productive day. From my perspective , the decision to outsource our IT services might not yield the anticipated cost savings in the long run. I’m of the opinion that investing in an in-house IT team could provide more control and efficiency.

Let’s discuss this further during our next team meeting.

Warm regards, Oscar

This phrase emphasizes that the viewpoint being expressed is based on the writer’s unique position or viewpoint.
It’s useful for conveying subjectivity while acknowledging other possible perspectives.

I trust you’re doing well. In my view , the current approach to customer engagement lacks personalization. I believe we should explore leveraging customer data to tailor our interactions and enhance overall satisfaction.

Looking forward to your thoughts on this matter.

This phrase signals the writer’s subjective evaluation or judgment of a situation.
It’s commonly used in formal and informal communication contexts.

It Is My Conviction That

I hope this email finds you in good spirits. It is my conviction that fostering a culture of continuous learning within our organization is essential for long-term success. I’m of the opinion that investing in employee training and development programs will not only enhance skills but also boost morale and retention rates.

Let’s discuss potential strategies to implement this initiative.

This phrase conveys a strong sense of belief or certainty in the writer’s viewpoint.
It’s appropriate for expressing deeply held convictions or beliefs.

To My Understanding

I trust you’re doing well. To my understanding , the recent changes in market trends suggest a shift in consumer preferences towards sustainable products. I’m of the opinion that we should explore opportunities to align our product offerings with this growing demand.

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on this matter.

This phrase indicates that the writer’s viewpoint is based on their comprehension or interpretation of information.
It’s suitable for expressing subjective understanding or interpretation.

Read More: Polite Synonyms for “At Your Earliest Convenience”

As Far As I’m Concerned

I hope this email finds you well. As far as I’m concerned , the decision to restructure our project teams lacks clarity in terms of roles and responsibilities. I’m of the opinion that establishing clear guidelines and communication channels is essential to avoid confusion and improve efficiency.

Let’s schedule a meeting to address this issue promptly.

This phrase emphasizes the writer’s personal stake or interest in the matter being discussed.
It’s often used to express a subjective opinion or viewpoint.

In My Estimation

I trust you’re doing well. In my estimation , the current budget allocation for marketing activities seems inadequate given the competitive landscape. I’m of the opinion that reallocating resources to targeted digital campaigns could yield better results.

Looking forward to your input on this matter.

This phrase suggests that the writer’s opinion is based on their assessment or calculation of a situation.
It’s appropriate for expressing subjective evaluations or judgments.

From My Standpoint

I hope this email finds you well. From my standpoint , the recent changes in our project timeline jeopardize the quality of deliverables. I’m of the opinion that we should reassess our priorities and allocate resources more efficiently to meet deadlines without compromising on quality.

Let’s discuss potential solutions during our next team meeting.

This phrase highlights that the writer’s viewpoint is shaped by their position or perspective.
It’s useful for expressing subjective opinions or evaluations.

It Seems to Me That

I trust you’re doing well. It seems to me that the current approach to customer service fails to address the root causes of recurring complaints. I’m of the opinion that implementing a comprehensive feedback mechanism and training program for our support team could lead to significant improvements in customer satisfaction.

Looking forward to your insights on this matter.

This phrase suggests that the writer’s opinion is based on their perception or impression of a situation.
It’s suitable for expressing subjective observations or evaluations.

As I Understand It

I hope this email finds you well. As I understand it , the recent fluctuations in market demand necessitate a more agile approach to production planning. I’m of the opinion that adopting Just-in-Time principles could help us optimize inventory levels and reduce costs.

Let’s explore this further in our upcoming strategy meeting.

It’s commonly used to express subjective understanding or interpretation.

In My Judgment

I trust you’re doing well. In my judgment , the current project timeline is overly ambitious and risks quality compromises. I’m of the opinion that we should revisit our deadlines and allocate additional resources as needed to ensure successful delivery.

Looking forward to your feedback on this matter.

This phrase conveys the writer’s subjective evaluation or assessment of a situation.
It’s suitable for expressing personal opinions or judgments.

In My Experience

I hope this email finds you well. In my experience , successful collaborations thrive on clear communication and mutual respect among team members. I’m of the opinion that fostering a collaborative environment is crucial for achieving our project goals effectively.

Let’s schedule a team-building workshop to strengthen our teamwork.

This phrase draws on the writer’s personal history or past encounters to support their opinion.
It’s appropriate for expressing opinions based on personal experience or observation.

It’s My Belief That

I trust you’re doing well. It’s my belief that embracing diversity and inclusion is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage for our organization. I’m of the opinion that promoting diversity in our workforce will foster innovation and drive long-term growth.

Looking forward to discussing this further with you.

This phrase emphasizes the writer’s strong conviction or faith in their viewpoint.
It’s often used to express deeply held beliefs or principles.

From My Vantage Point

I hope this email finds you well. From my vantage point , the current economic indicators suggest a looming downturn in the market. I’m of the opinion that we should adopt a more conservative approach to financial planning to mitigate potential risks.

Let’s convene a meeting to review our contingency plans.

This phrase emphasizes that the writer’s viewpoint is influenced by their unique perspective or position.
It’s suitable for expressing subjective opinions or observations.

As I Perceive It

I trust you’re doing well. As I perceive it , the recent changes in consumer behavior signal a growing demand for eco-friendly products. I’m of the opinion that incorporating sustainable practices into our production processes could enhance our brand reputation and attract environmentally conscious consumers.

This phrase suggests that the writer’s opinion is based on their perception or interpretation of a situation.
It’s commonly used to express subjective observations or evaluations.

In My Assessment

I hope this email finds you well. In my assessment , the current staffing levels are insufficient to meet the project’s requirements within the specified timeline. I’m of the opinion that recruiting additional team members or outsourcing certain tasks may be necessary to ensure successful completion.

Let’s discuss potential solutions during our next project meeting.

This phrase conveys the writer’s evaluation or analysis of a situation.
It’s appropriate for expressing subjective assessments or judgments.

To My Way of Thinking

I trust you’re doing well. To my way of thinking , the recent policy changes overlook the importance of employee feedback in driving organizational improvements. I’m of the opinion that establishing a structured feedback mechanism is essential for fostering a culture of continuous learning and development.

This phrase emphasizes that the writer’s viewpoint is shaped by their individual perspective or mindset.
It’s suitable for expressing subjective opinions or beliefs.

I hope this email finds you well. In my mind , effective leadership hinges on empathy, communication, and adaptability. I’m of the opinion that cultivating these qualities among our management team will not only enhance employee morale but also drive organizational success.

Let’s explore leadership development opportunities together.

This phrase conveys the writer’s thoughts or beliefs on a particular subject.
It’s commonly used to express personal opinions or convictions.

As I Interpret It

I trust you’re doing well. As I interpret it , the recent decline in customer satisfaction scores may stem from inconsistencies in our service delivery processes. I’m of the opinion that conducting a comprehensive review of our procedures and implementing standardized protocols could help address these issues effectively.

This phrase suggests that the writer’s opinion is based on their understanding or interpretation of the situation.
It’s suitable for expressing subjective interpretations or analyses.

Pros and Cons of Diversifying Expression

Diversifying expression in writing offers numerous advantages, including:

Engaging readers: Using varied language keeps readers interested and prevents monotony.
Enhancing clarity: Different phrases can convey nuances of meaning more effectively.
Demonstrating language proficiency: Employing a diverse vocabulary showcases a writer’s command of language.

However, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:

Overcomplication: Using too many synonyms for “I believe” may confuse readers or distract from the main message.
Appropriateness: Some contexts may require a straightforward expression of belief rather than varied alternatives.
Time-consuming: Constantly searching for synonyms may slow down the writing process.

While diversifying expression can enhance writing, it’s essential to strike a balance and use alternatives judiciously to achieve clarity and engagement without overwhelming the reader.

Dariel Campbell is currently an English instructor at a university. She has experience in teaching and assessing English tests including TOEFL, IELTS, BULATS, FCE, CAE, and PTEG . With over a decade of teaching expertise, Dariel Campbell utilizes his knowledge to develop English lessons for her audience on English Overview.

Ethan Richards is an English teacher at a university.

He has experience teaching and grading English tests like TOEFL, IELTS, BULATS, FCE, CAE, and PTEG . With over 10 years of teaching experience, Ethan Richards creates English lessons for readers on English Overview .

Ethan Richards

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11 Other Ways To Say “I Think” And “I Believe” In An Essay

It can be tempting to say “I think” or “I believe” in an essay, especially when writing a personal narrative or opinion-based essay. The issue with this phrase is they tend to read as informal and weak. This article will explore some stronger alternatives that are worth considering.

What Can I Say Instead Of “I Think” And “I Believe”?

There are many different ways to express that what you’re saying is an opinion or a conclusion you have drawn using stronger wording than “I think” and “I believe.” Here are some options:

In my opinion
It could be argued
Many believe
This suggests
It can be concluded
It makes sense
This proves
This supports the idea
X makes a strong case

The preferred option is “in my opinion.” “In my opinion” is clear and direct, and sounds more formal than “I believe” and “I think.” It’s a good way to make it clear that what you’re saying is your personal opinion while still sounding credible.

In My Opinion

“In my opinion” is a good choice when you’re writing a first-person essay. “Opinion” implies more fact-based consideration than “believe” and more depth than “think.” “Opinion” also comes off as more confident than both “think” and “believe.”

“In my opinion” sounds formal enough to be appropriate in an essay, but can still maintain the conversational tone that is typically expected in first-person essays.

Here’s what “in my opinion” looks like in context:

In my opinion, every public school student should be offered a free lunch option.
Reading through this book was challenging not for the content but for the dull writing style. In my opinion, it shouldn’t be upheld as a classic.
In my opinion, neither argument was particularly convincing.

It Could Be Argued

This sort of hypothetical phrasing isn’t always considered strong, but “it could be argued” is still a solid choice for third-person essays that require you to explore various arguments.

“It could be argued” is useful when you need to analyze multiple arguments or look at something from multiple angles. It allows you to point out some arguments or thoughts people might have in general to develop your argument.

Here are some ways you can use “it could be argued”:

It could be argued that teaching Shakespeare in school only serves to confuse students due to the extremely antiquated language.
It could be argued that the color blue represents sadness, but there are many examples in the text that point to blue instead representing loneliness.
The bird could be a representation of her fear. Conversely, it could be argued that the bird is there simply because the lead character loves birds.

Many Believe

“Many believe” is useful when you want to discuss widely held beliefs and the fact that these beliefs are widely held is common knowledge. You can also use “many believe” when you have a statistic to back up the claim.

“Many believe” is better than “I think” and “I believe” in those sorts of situations because it creates a less personal statement. That helps it feel more formal and makes the argument feel more expansive.

Here’s how you can use “many believe”:

Many believe that eating any kind of fat is unhealthy, but nutritionists disagree.
According to the poll, many believe that doing yoga and drinking enough water will cure certain mental illnesses.

This Suggests

“This suggests” is a great choice for drawing a conclusion based on the evidence you’ve presented. It’s stronger than “I think” and “I believe” because it explicitly ties your ideas to other ideas.

You’ll typically use “this suggests” after presenting some evidence or an argument. “This suggests” introduces your analysis and often your argument.

For example:

The flowers in the vase didn’t die until after Ashley fought with her mother. This suggests that the state of the perpetually near-death flowers was serving as a metaphor for the state of Ashley’s relationship with her mother.
Jodi’s favorite color was green. This suggests some part of her was tied to everything green represented in the novel, even if she denied it.

It Can Be Concluded

“It can be concluded” is a good replacement for “I think” and “I believe” in third-person writing. It emphasizes the conclusions you’re drawing based on previously detailed evidence.

Like “this suggests,” “it can be concluded” comes after you present some evidence or ideas. It directly connects your thinking to the evidence, which supports a strong argument.

Here are some examples:

As such, it can be concluded that the core message of the story is the real reward was the friendships we made on the journey.
It can be concluded that he never knew what happened to his father and was simply making up different versions of the story as the subject was too difficult for him to discuss directly.

It Makes Sense

“It makes sense” is a phrase can use to introduce a thought or insight you have. It’s subtly persuasive and can fit into both formal and informal essay styles.

“It makes sense” is deceptively strong wording. While it may seem soft at first, it can be used to make some really strong statements.

Here’s how that could look in practice:

It makes sense that the school wouldn’t provide free lunches for students. It’s a costly plan, and the school district has a long track record of investing in administration before investing in student welfare.
It makes sense that the play’s love story ended tragically. The playwright was newly divorced when she penned it, and her poetry from this time shows a similar disillusionment with romantic relationships.

This Proves

“This proves” is a strong way to connect your conclusions and arguments to previously presented evidence. This phrase is a good choice when you’re confident in your evidence and your argument, as using it after shaky evidence can harm your credibility.

Here’s what this might look like in context:

The students who got more recess time did better on tests than children who had more quiet study time. This proves that children need more playtime throughout the day.
This proves my original hypothesis, though not in the way I expected.

This Supports The Idea

This is another useful phrase for directly tying previously stated evidence to your arguments and conclusions. Once you provide your evidence, you can go into your argument by saying “this supports the idea that…”

“This supports the idea” is a deeply academic phrase. It doesn’t come off too strong, nor does it read as personal or informal. It reads as objective, which can support your credibility in the eyes of the reader.

Here are some examples:

Lisa ultimately gave the flower to Joan. This supports the idea that the flower was representative of trust.
In this scene, the characters’ loyalties are made clear by where they are standing in relation to the protagonist. John is standing next to the protagonist. This supports the idea that, despite what he says, he truly was loyal to the protagonist.

X Makes A Strong Case

“X makes a strong case” is a phrase when you want to specifically tie in an argument someone else has made. It emphasizes the person who made the argument rather than what you think about the argument.

For example, if you wanted to say “I think Rodney is right about the dress code,” a stronger way to word that in an essay would be “Rodney makes a strong case about the dress code.”

Both sentences communicate that you think Rodney’s argument has merit, but using the “X makes a strong case” format emphasizes Rodney’s arguments rather than your evaluation of them.

This less-personal writing is generally considered to be more formal and thus more appropriate for academic writing.

Here are some more examples of how to use this phrase:

The author makes a strong case in favor of the motion.
In the novel, Susie’s father makes a strong case against the idea of Susie marrying a stranger.

“In my mind” is a strong phrase that is perfect for first-person narrative essays. It’s engaging, conversational wording that still maintains the formality expected in essays.

“In my mind” is a good way to word more personally held thoughts and beliefs without saying “I think” or “I believe.”

Here are some ways you could use “in my mind”:

In my mind, nothing mattered more than the championship.
In my mind, there was no way any of this could have a good outcome. I just didn’t see how it would work out.

Sometimes the best alternative to “I believe” and “I think” is simply to cut the phrase without providing a replacement. This makes your writing more succinct and straightforward and less informal.

Replacing “I think” and “I believe” can support the style and flow of your writing, but deleting the lead-in entirely is common advice. The argument is that since you wrote the essay, “I think” and “I believe” are implied. It’s redundant to include them.

Take a look at these sentences:

I think the power outage was caused by the wind storm.
I believe students should have mentors throughout their time in school.

Here’s what they look like if you remove the lead-in:

The power outage was caused by the wind storm.
Students should have mentors throughout their time in school.

In these instances, removing the phrases entirely without replacing them made for stronger statements.

Martin holds a Master’s degree in Finance and International Business. He has six years of experience in professional communication with clients, executives, and colleagues. Furthermore, he has teaching experience from Aarhus University. Martin has been featured as an expert in communication and teaching on Forbes and Shopify. Read more about Martin here .

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12 Other Ways to Say “I Believe” in an Essay

Alex Carter

The English language is rich and diverse, offering a multitude of ways to express a thought or statement. One such statement is “I believe,” which is commonly used in essays to assert a viewpoint. However, relying solely on these words can lead to repetitive and dull writing. This article will present you with twelve other ways to say “I believe” in an essay.

Exploring the Alternatives to “I Believe”

The phrase “I believe” is essential in essay writing as it helps the writer to assert their viewpoint. However, using it repeatedly can make an essay monotonous and less engaging. By exploring alternative phrases , you can add variety to your writing and make it more captivating. Here are some reasons why you should consider using alternatives to “I believe”:

It increases your vocabulary and improves your language skills.
It makes your essay more engaging and interesting to read.
It demonstrates your proficiency in the English language.
It helps you to express your thoughts more effectively.

Twelve Alternatives to “I Believe”

Here are twelve different ways to say “I believe” in an essay. While the phrases listed here have similar meanings to “I believe,” they vary in tone and formality. Therefore, you should choose the one that best fits the context of your essay.

Tips for Using Alternatives to “I Believe”

When using alternatives to “I believe,” it is important to consider the context in which you are writing. Some phrases may be more appropriate in formal essays, while others may fit better in casual writing. Here are a few tips to guide you:

Vary your language. Using different phrases keeps your essay interesting and engaging .
Match the tone of your essay. Some phrases are more formal than others, so choose the one that fits your essay’s tone.
Be clear and confident. If you are asserting a belief, do so with confidence and clarity .

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When using alternatives to “I believe,” there are some common mistakes to avoid. Here are a few:

Overusing certain phrases. While it’s good to vary your language, don’t rely too heavily on one or two phrases.
Using phrases incorrectly. Be sure to understand the meaning and context of a phrase before you use it.
Forcing a phrase. If a phrase doesn’t fit naturally in your sentence, don’t force it. It’s better to be clear and straightforward than to use a phrase awkwardly.

Putting It into Practice: Real-World Examples

Now that we’ve discussed the alternatives to “I believe,” let’s see how these phrases can be used in real-world examples.

Exploring New Expressions

Learning alternatives to commonly used phrases such as “I believe” not only enhances your vocabulary but also makes your essays more engaging. Remember, the key to effective writing is to express your thoughts clearly and confidently, and using varied language can help you achieve this. So, the next time you find yourself reaching for the phrase “I believe,” consider using one of the alternatives discussed in this article. Your readers will thank you for it!

10 Other Ways to Say “I Believe” in an Essay

To write an essay well, you need to limit redundant phrases. Therefore, you need to know the best ways to start sentences to keep the reader engaged.

If you’re trying to use “I believe” in an essay, you will need something different to mix things up.

Luckily, this article has gathered the best phrases to help you. We’ll show you how to say “I believe” in an essay.

Can You Use “I Believe” in an Essay?

You can use “I believe” in an essay, but you should only use it once. It’s not something you should repeat if you can avoid it.

It’s okay to use in an argumentative essay . After all, it suggests you have an argument to share that provides your honest opinion about something.

However, it is bad to use if you repeat it too much . Try to avoid using it more than once. Stick to alternatives to keep things interesting.

Here’s an example to help you understand it:

I believe this is the best way to go about the situation. I’m certain we can find common ground.

It’s a great way to share your argument.
It keeps things fairly personal as the reader goes through your essay.
It can easily become repetitive.
It’s not the most inspiring phrase to include.

While “I believe” works well in some cases, it’s not always the best choice. We recommend having a few alternatives ready to mix things up.

So, keep reading to learn what to use instead of “I believe” in an essay.

What to Say Instead of “I Believe” in an Essay

From where I stand
In my opinion
It seems to me
I’m of the opinion that
As far as I know
My position is
It appears that
From my perspective

1. From Where I Stand

You can write “from where I stand” instead of “I believe” in an essay. It works well in academic writing because it’s very professional and unbiased .

It suggests you have an opinion , but you’re willing to debate with the reader. We recommend using it if you’re trying to write a more argumentative essay.

After all, it’s a great way to capture the reader’s attention. It suggests you’re willing to hear them out (even though they can’t talk to you).

Here are some great examples to help you:

From where I stand , this is the only way to tackle the situation. There are no alternatives.

From where I stand , this is the best course of action. Therefore, I think we should capitalize on it.

2. My Take Is

For a more direct alternative, you can write “my take is.” It’s another way to say “I believe” in an essay.

Saying you have a “take” suggests you believe something that others might not . It’s useful because it shares an opinion that you don’t expect the reader to share with you.

It’s just a simple way to share your idea and debate the different sides.

Review these examples if you’re still unsure:

My take is that we can’t find a better solution for this. It’s the only way the project can continue.

My take is argued a lot, but it happens to suggest the best way to move forward.

3. In My Opinion

One of the most common alternatives to “I believe” is “in my opinion.” It’s highly effective because it’s formal and respectful .

It’s a considerate phrase that suggests you’re only sharing your thoughts . It doesn’t imply that the reader is wrong if they don’t share the same opinion as you.

We recommend using it to keep your essay unbiased. It’s especially effective if you’re not trying to antagonize the reader.

You may even refer to the following examples:

In my opinion , this isn’t the only option. However, it is the only option that doesn’t cost the company more money.

In my opinion , they made a mistake in their judgment. Now, everyone has to pay for it.

4. It Seems to Me

If you want to know how to say “I believe” in an essay without saying I, you can start with “it seems to me.”

It’s a great way to start a sentence sharing an opinion . We recommend using it to express your views , even if you’re not convinced your views are correct.

This phrase works incredibly well in most formal writing . It’s useful in academic cases because it shows you’re open to exploring your ideas and what “seems” to be correct.

You can also review these examples:

It seems to me this whole situation could have been resolved sooner. Unfortunately, nobody wanted to listen.

It seems to me there are more ways to create problems for them. This battle is far from over.

5. I’m of the Opinion That

For a slightly wordier alternative, you can use “I’m of the opinion that.” Of course, it’s a bit redundant , meaning you should only use it once in an essay.

The more you use this phrase, the less impactful it’ll sound throughout your essay.

Don’t get us wrong; it’s still effective. However, it’s something you should only include to mix things up and keep your writing fresh whenever possible.

Generally, this works well in academic writing. It shows you’re open to new opinions and will express different viewpoints in your essay.

Here are some examples to help you understand more about it:

I’m of the opinion that they didn’t need to advance to the frontline. The war did not need to continue.

I’m of the opinion that this was the best way to complete the project. I would like to hear if this isn’t the case.

6. As Far as I Know

You may use “as far as I know” instead of “I believe” as well. It’s another word for “I believe” in an essay that shows you’re exploring your ideas and talking about your opinions.

Generally, this phrase makes it clear that you don’t claim to know everything . It suggests to the reader that you’re willing to hear different views before concluding anything.

Therefore, this is a great way to remain unbiased in your writing. You should absolutely try to include it to keep things interesting.

Check out these essay examples as well:

As far as I know , there has only been one recorded discussion of this in the history of the topic.

As far as I know , this is the best plan. Nobody has offered a more suitable alternative yet.

7. My Position Is

Sharing your position (i.e., your opinion) in an essay is an excellent choice. It works well argumentatively because it shows where you stand and whether you’re willing to change your mind.

Generally, “positions” are firm. Therefore, including “my position is” in your academic writing suggests you won’t change your mind easily .

It’s effective to show a reader you’re unwilling to back down from an argument. It also helps that it’s very professional , making it excellent to use in essays.

Here are some great samples to show you how it works:

My position is that we can’t keep going like this. It’s not a sustainable way to continue.

My position is that things must change quickly. Otherwise, it’s only a matter of time before things go south.

8. In My View

You should share viewpoints and opinions in your debates. It allows the reader to follow your views and decide whether they agree with you.

Try using “in my view” instead of “I believe” to do this. It shows you’re sharing your opinion with the reader .

This is a great way to learn whether the reader agrees with you. It’ll tell them everything they need to know regarding the context of the essay in question.

You can also refer to the following examples:

In my view , this is the worst political divide we’ve had in this country.

In my view , we can still fix the problems. However, nobody seems willing to take the first step.

9. It Appears That

You can use “it appears that” as another way to say “I believe.” Showing how things “appear” refers to how you might generate your own point of view .

You can use “it appears that” to show that you’ve understood something in your own way .

Of course, you might be wrong. However, this is the basis of most arguments, and it shows you’re willing to explore your view.

Perhaps these essay samples will also help you:

It appears that I’m correct about this. Every argument against me has thus far proven to be false.

It appears that they don’t have a suitable backup in place. Therefore, they must refer to my original plan.

10. From My Perspective

“From my perspective” shows you how to say “I believe” in an essay without saying I. Instead, it uses the personal pronoun “my” to mix things up.

It’s a great formal choice that allows you to share your ideas and opinions.

Giving your perspective tells the reader what you think directly. It’s highly effective if you’re trying to convince the reader that your point of view is the best one to adopt.

Here are some examples to help you:

From my perspective , this is a bad idea. I can’t understand why people want to go through with it.

From my perspective , they are wrong. I don’t think I can explain why that’s the case, though.

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10 Other Ways to Say “I Believe” in an Essay

When writing an essay, it’s common to want to share what you think. But constantly saying “I believe” can get repetitive and weaken your work.

This article lists ten different ways to express your opinion that sound more professional and engaging. Each alternative is explained, including when and why to use it, with clear examples to help you apply them to your own writing.

Is It Professional to Say “I Believe”?

Using the phrase “I believe” in a professional or academic setting can be tricky. While it’s not unprofessional, its appropriateness really depends on the situation. In writings where personal opinion is valued and you’re asked to provide your perspective, saying “I believe” can fit well. For example, in essays that ask for your viewpoint on a subject, or in situations where you need to make your stance clear without presenting it as the absolute truth.

Let’s consider the pros and cons of this phrase:

It clearly expresses personal opinion.
Makes the text more relatable by adding a personal touch.
It’s a straightforward way to introduce one’s viewpoint.
Can make arguments seem less authoritative or based on personal bias.
Might weaken the argument’s perceived objectivity.
Could be seen as overly informal in strictly academic or professional writing.

Given these pros and cons, you might want to consider using an alternative phrase. The need for synonyms or other ways to express belief becomes more apparent when trying to maintain the balance between presenting a personal perspective and ensuring the writing is taken seriously. Alternatives can offer a more sophisticated or objective way to share your thoughts, which might be preferable in academic or professional settings. Using synonyms can also vary your language, making your writing more engaging and precise.

10 Other Ways to Say “I Believe” in an Essay

Here are ten professional alternatives to “I believe” that can enhance your essay writing:

I am convinced that
I contend that
It is my contention
I assert that
My perspective is
It is my belief
I maintain that
I am of the opinion that
From my standpoint

1. In my view

Using “In my view” in your essay suggests that you’re presenting a personal perspective, but with a tone that’s a bit more formal and detached than “I believe.” It hints that you’ve given the matter some thought. This alternative is especially useful in essays where you want to emphasize your opinion without sounding too personal. It’s a balanced choice that’s professional yet open.

It’s particularly effective when you’re aiming to convince the reader of your position by presenting it as a considered conclusion. “In my view” has a subtle way of suggesting that, although this is an opinion, it’s one that has been carefully arrived at.

Here are a couple of examples:

2. I am convinced that

“I am convinced that” expresses a strong personal conviction and suggests that your opinion is backed by evidence or experience. It’s more forceful than simply saying “I believe,” implying that you have been persuaded by the facts or arguments. This alternative is ideal for essays where you need to argue strongly in favor of a position.

This phrase is best used when you want the reader to understand that your viewpoint is not just a belief but something you consider to be proven or beyond doubt. It adds weight and professional credibility to your statements.

Here are two examples we recommend:

3. I contend that

The phrase “I contend that” is used to assert a position in an argument or debate strongly. This choice is notably formal and suggests that you’re prepared to defend your view against counterarguments. It’s particularly suited for essays and papers that are argumentative in nature.

When writing on topics that are controversial or not widely accepted, “I contend that” signals that you’re not merely sharing an opinion but are presenting a thought-out argument. It implies a readiness to engage in scholarly debate.

Here are two sample uses:

4. It is my contention

“It is my contention” works similarly to “I contend that” but has a slightly more nuanced tone. It still expresses a strong stance but positions it as something for readers to consider seriously. This expression is both professional and formal , suitable for academic essays that require you to present your hypothesis or argument confidently.

This alternative is best when you seek to present your argument as substantiated and well-considered, particularly in academic research or analytical papers where precision and a formal tone are critical.

Sample examples include:

5. I assert that

“I assert that” is a powerful way to state your position. It conveys confidence and certitude, making it clear that you stand firmly behind your statement. This phrase is ideal for instances where you need to be emphatic and leave no room for doubt about your viewpoint. It’s quite formal and carries a strong professional tone.

Use it in essays where you’re making bold claims or conclusions that you want to highlight as both significant and backed by evidence. It distinctly marks your assertions as solid and well-grounded.

Two examples to consider are:

6. My perspective is

“My perspective is” introduces your viewpoint in a way that’s informal yet professional . It’s useful for blending personal insight with scholarly research, showing that your conclusion is both personally and academically informed. This alternative is great when your essay involves sharing insights derived from personal experiences or observations.

This phrase is perfect when your essay benefits from a balance between personal anecdotes and scholarly evidence, suggesting that your perspective is unique but still credible.

Some examples for better understanding:

7. It is my belief

“It is my belief” is a slightly more formal synonym for “I believe.” It indicates a held belief but does so in a way that feels measured and considered. This phrase is suitable for expressing personal convictions in a way that anticipates respect for differing viewpoints.

When writing on subjects where you wish to acknowledge the potential for disagreement but still want to clearly state your own stance, “It is my belief” serves well. It marks your territory while keeping the academic conversation open and respectful.

Examples of use are:

8. I maintain that

“I maintain that” communicates a steadfast adherence to your position, even in the face of opposition or skepticism. It’s formal and carries a tone of resilience and professional integrity. Employ this phrase in essays where you’re reinforcing a stance that might have been challenged or requires robust defense.

This alternative is ideal for situations where you’ve presented evidence or arguments earlier and are now emphasizing your continued commitment to your viewpoint. It’s particularly effective for rebuttal paragraphs or conclusion sections.

Here are a couple of examples to illustrate its use:

9. I am of the opinion that

“I am of the opinion that” is a modest and reflective way to share your thoughts. It’s formal and indicates that the opinion shared is the result of consideration and reflection. It’s suitable for essays where you want to present your viewpoint as one among many, without appearing to dismiss other perspectives.

This expression is particularly fitting for nuanced discussions where acknowledging the complexity of the issue is important, and your opinion is offered as a contributory insight rather than the final word.

For insight, here are some sample statements:

10. From my standpoint

“From my standpoint” personalizes your statement by grounding it in your specific viewpoint or experience. It suggests a personal understanding or interpretation that’s informed by your unique position. This phrase is somewhat informal , making it suitable for essays that blend personal narration with academic arguments.

It’s especially valuable when your essay benefits from the explicit acknowledgment of your personal or unique perspective on an issue, linking your conclusions tightly to your experiences or observations.

Here are some examples:

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right way to express your opinion in an essay is crucial for making your writing sound professional and convincing. The ten alternatives to “I believe” we’ve listed provide you with options to strengthen your arguments and improve your essay’s readability.

Remember, the goal is to share your ideas in a way that engages your reader and supports your arguments strongly. By using these alternatives, you can make your essays more impactful and show your ability to communicate effectively. No matter which option you choose, make sure it fits the context of your writing and enhances your message. Happy writing!

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15 Other Ways to Say “I Believe” in an Essay

Introduction

Expressing one’s beliefs is an integral aspect of effective communication, especially in the realm of essay writing. While the phrase “I believe” is commonly used, a rich and varied vocabulary can enhance the expression of personal viewpoints. In this article, we’ll explore 15 alternative ways to convey belief in an essay, each with its unique nuances and applications. Let’s delve into diverse linguistic avenues to articulate your convictions with finesse and eloquence.

1. From Where I Stand

When discussing personal beliefs, using the phrase “from where I stand” adds a touch of perspective. This expression implies a particular viewpoint shaped by individual experiences or knowledge. For instance:

Scenario: Email to Justin Taylor

Subject: Exploring New Strategies for Project Management

Dear Justin,

I hope this message finds you well. From where I stand , I’ve been researching innovative project management approaches that could significantly enhance our team’s efficiency. Give me a few days to learn more about these methods, and we can discuss how they might benefit our ongoing projects.

Best regards,

James Wilson

Additional Note: This phrase allows you to bring attention to your unique position or insight on a particular matter.

2. My Take Is

The phrase “my take is” introduces a personal perspective or interpretation. It’s a more casual way of expressing one’s viewpoint.

Scenario: Team Meeting Discussion

Colleague: How do you think we should approach the client presentation?

You: Well, my take is that we should focus on highlighting the key features rather than delving too much into technical details. This way, we can better engage the client and address their specific needs.

Additional Note: This phrase is handy for informal settings, allowing you to share your opinion in a conversational manner.

3. In My Opinion

A classic alternative to “I believe,” “in my opinion” adds a layer of formality to your expression of belief.

Scenario: Academic Paper

Paragraph: The current economic policies have sparked debates among scholars. In my opinion , a comprehensive analysis of historical data is crucial to understanding the potential long-term effects of these policies.

Additional Note: This phrase is suitable for academic or professional contexts, conveying a thoughtful and considered viewpoint.

4. It Seems to Me

Adding a touch of subjectivity, “it seems to me” implies a sense of personal observation or interpretation.

Scenario: Discussion with a Friend

Friend: How did you find the movie?

You: Well, it seems to me that the plot was intricate, but the pacing could have been better.

Additional Note: This phrase is effective in expressing impressions or feelings about a situation.

5. I’m of the Opinion That

“I’m of the opinion that” is a more formal way of stating your belief, suitable for professional or academic discourse.

Scenario: Proposal Submission

Paragraph: In analyzing the current market trends, I’m of the opinion that our proposed marketing strategy aligns seamlessly with the evolving consumer preferences, positioning us for substantial growth.

Additional Note: This phrase carries a level of authority and is apt for situations where a more serious tone is required.

6. As Far as I Know

Introducing an element of uncertainty, “as far as I know” acknowledges the limitations of one’s knowledge.

Scenario: Group Research Project Update

You: As far as I know , the data collection process is on track, but we might encounter unforeseen challenges in the analysis phase.

Additional Note: This phrase is useful when expressing beliefs based on current knowledge while acknowledging the potential for new information.

7. My Position Is

Stating “my position is” conveys a sense of formality and authority, often used in professional or diplomatic contexts.

Scenario: Business Negotiation Email

After careful consideration, my position is that we should proceed with the proposed collaboration, as it aligns with our long-term strategic goals. I look forward to discussing the finer details in our upcoming meeting.

Additional Note: This phrase is suitable for asserting a stance in situations requiring a clear and decisive expression of belief.

8. In My View

Similar to “in my opinion,” “in my view” emphasizes a personal perspective while maintaining a more formal tone.

Scenario: Team Decision-Making Meeting

Team Lead: How do you think we should allocate resources for the upcoming project?

You: Well, in my view , prioritizing research and development would yield greater long-term benefits for our organization.

Additional Note: This phrase is versatile and can be employed in various professional or personal settings.

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9. It Appears That

“It appears that” suggests a belief based on observable evidence or indications.

Scenario: Project Progress Report

Paragraph: After reviewing the project milestones, it appears that the team is ahead of schedule. This bodes well for the timely completion of the project.

Additional Note: This phrase is useful for conveying beliefs grounded in empirical evidence or visible trends.

10. From My Perspective

“From my perspective” is a straightforward way to express your point of view, often used in casual conversations or informal writing.

Scenario: Team Brainstorming Session

Colleague: How do you see the market evolving in the next quarter?

You: Well, from my perspective , consumer preferences are likely to shift towards more sustainable products.

Additional Note: This phrase is effective in providing a personal viewpoint without sounding overly formal.

11. My Take Is

Scenario: Virtual Team Discussion

Teammate: Any thoughts on how we can improve collaboration in our virtual team?

You: Absolutely. My take is that regular video meetings can help foster a stronger sense of connection among team members.

Additional Note: This phrase can be used in both professional and informal settings to convey personal opinions.

12. It Is My Contention That

A more assertive way to express belief, “it is my contention that” implies a strong argument or claim.

Scenario: Academic Debate Opening Statement

Opening Statement: In today’s debate, it is my contention that technological advancements have revolutionized communication, leading to profound societal changes.

Additional Note: This phrase is suitable for situations where you want to emphasize the strength of your belief or argument.

13. I Am Inclined to Think That

“I am inclined to think that” suggests a leaning towards a particular belief or opinion.

Manager: What’s your stance on adopting the new software?

You: Well, I am inclined to think that integrating the new software could streamline our workflow and improve overall efficiency.

Additional Note: This phrase conveys a sense of inclination or tendency in your belief.

14. In My Estimation

“In my estimation” adds a touch of calculation or assessment to your belief, suitable for situations where a measured opinion is required.

Scenario: Financial Analysis Report

Paragraph: In my estimation , the projected return on investment for the upcoming fiscal year is promising, given the current market trends.

Additional Note: This phrase is particularly effective in professional or analytical contexts where precision is valued.

15. I Maintain That

“I maintain that” conveys a sense of steadfastness and persistence in your belief, implying a continuous commitment to a particular viewpoint.

Scenario: Project Status Meeting

Team Lead: There have been concerns raised about the project timeline. What is your assessment?

You: Despite challenges, I maintain that our team is well-equipped to overcome these obstacles, and with collaborative effort, we can still meet the project deadlines.

Additional Note: This phrase is suitable for situations where you want to emphasize the ongoing validity of your belief.

Pros and Cons of Varied Expressions

While diversifying your language to express belief can enhance your communication, each phrase has its pros and cons.

Clarity: Using diverse expressions ensures that your beliefs are communicated with precision, matching the tone and formality of the context.
Engagement: Varied language keeps your writing interesting and engages the reader by avoiding repetitive phrases.
Versatility: Different expressions suit different settings, allowing you to adapt your communication style to various audiences and situations.
Overuse: While variety is beneficial, overusing different expressions in a single piece can lead to confusion or a lack of coherence.
Inconsistency: Switching between expressions too frequently may create a disjointed flow in your writing, making it challenging for the reader to follow your line of thought.
Context Sensitivity: Some expressions may be more suitable for specific contexts, and using them inappropriately may undermine the effectiveness of your communication.

In conclusion, the art of expressing beliefs in writing involves striking a balance between variety and coherence. While it’s essential to diversify your language to avoid monotony, it’s equally crucial to ensure that your expressions align with the context and maintain clarity for the reader.

By incorporating these alternative phrases into your writing arsenal, you can elevate your ability to articulate beliefs, fostering effective communication in both professional and personal spheres. Remember, the key lies not just in what you believe, but in how effectively you convey those beliefs to others.

Meet Steven Smith , the driving force behind “English Summa.” Armed with a Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics and a passion for teaching, Steven is dedicated to unraveling language intricacies for eager minds. Join him on a journey of linguistic discovery through Language Odyssey—a space where education meets inspiration, and the beauty of language unfolds.

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12 Fresh Synonyms for ‘I Believe’ in an Essay: Boost Your Vocabulary

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Welcome to our educational blog, where we’re dedicated to helping you elevate your command of the English language . In today’s article, we’re delving into the art of essay writing by exploring “12 Other Ways to Say ‘I Believe’ in an Essay.”

Whether you’re a student looking to impress your professors or a professional seeking to communicate with finesse, this article will provide you with valuable insights.

In the following sections, we’ll unlock a treasure trove of synonyms and creative expressions that will enrich your essays .

We understand that effective writing requires nuance and variety, and that’s precisely what we aim to deliver.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a toolkit of phrases at your disposal to convey your beliefs with eloquence and sophistication.

Key Takeaways:

Uncover 12 synonyms for “I Believe” to diversify your essay vocabulary.
Learn how to add depth and sophistication to your writing.
Enhance your ability to convey thoughts and opinions effectively.

12 Other Ways to Say “I Believe” in an Essay

In the world of essay writing, using the same phrase repeatedly can make your writing monotonous and unimpressive. To help you elevate your essays, we’ve compiled a list of 12 alternative expressions for “I Believe.”

These phrases will add flavor and depth to your writing, making your essays stand out:

In my opinion, – This classic phrase adds a personal touch to your beliefs.
From my perspective, – Emphasizes your unique viewpoint.
As far as I’m concerned, – Shows your commitment to your belief.
It seems to me that, – Expresses a thoughtful observation.
I am of the view that, – Conveys a structured and considered opinion.
To my way of thinking, – Highlights your individual thought process.
If you ask me, – Adds informality while asserting your opinion.
I’d like to point out that, – Focuses on drawing attention to a specific aspect.
It’s my contention that, – Suggests a strong belief or argument.
I maintain that, – Demonstrates a firm stance on the topic.
In my estimation, – Indicates a thoughtful evaluation.
It’s worth noting that, – Emphasizes the significance of your belief.

By incorporating these alternatives into your essays, you’ll not only enrich your vocabulary but also convey your ideas with greater precision and impact. Experiment with these phrases and see how they can elevate your writing to the next level.

It’s My Contention That: Expressing Certainty and Conviction

In the realm of essay writing, conveying confidence in your beliefs is essential. The phrase “It’s my contention that” allows you to do just that. It implies a strong belief, showcasing your unwavering conviction in your argument.

When and Where to Use

Formal Essays: “It’s my contention that” is highly suitable for formal essays, academic papers, or professional reports. It adds an authoritative tone to your writing.
Professional Communication: You can use this phrase in professional emails or documents when you want to assert your viewpoint with conviction.
Debates and Presentations: When you’re engaging in a debate or giving a presentation, using this phrase can emphasize your confidence in your position.

Example Sentences

In a formal essay: “It’s my contention that the impact of climate change on our planet is undeniable, and immediate action is imperative.”
In a professional email: “It’s my contention that implementing this strategy will lead to significant cost savings for our company.”

Variations for Different Contexts

Colleagues: “I firmly believe that”
Friends: “I’m absolutely convinced that”
Mentor-Mentee: “It’s my strong belief that”

Pros and Cons

Conveys a high level of certainty and conviction.
Adds an authoritative tone to your writing or speech.
Might sound too formal for casual or creative writing.
Should be used selectively to avoid overemphasis.

Grammar/Usage Rule: When using “It’s my contention that,” follow it with a complete sentence that elaborates on your belief.

Exception: In very formal contexts, it can be used as a standalone statement.

Definition: According to Cambridge Dictionary, “contention” means “a strong opinion that is expressed with confidence.”

Tips: Use this phrase when you want to assert your viewpoint firmly, but be mindful of its formality and use it appropriately in different contexts.

I Am Convinced That: Emphasizing Certainty and Belief

When you want to convey a high level of certainty and belief in your writing, the phrase “I am convinced that” is a powerful choice. It leaves no room for doubt and shows your unwavering commitment to your perspective.

Formal Essays: “I am convinced that” is suitable for formal essays and academic papers when you want to assert your viewpoint confidently.
Persuasive Writing: In persuasive essays or speeches, this phrase can make your arguments more compelling by highlighting your strong belief.
Professional Correspondence: Use it in professional emails or reports to express your certainty in a particular course of action.
In a formal essay: “I am convinced that renewable energy is the key to a sustainable future.”
In a persuasive speech: “I am convinced that our community will benefit greatly from investing in education.”
Friends: “I wholeheartedly believe that”
Mentor-Mentee: “I am steadfast in my belief that”
Conveys unwavering certainty and belief.
Enhances the persuasive impact of your writing or speech.
May sound overly assertive in some contexts.
Should be used judiciously to avoid appearing dogmatic.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Follow “I am convinced that” with a complete sentence that provides context or elaborates on your belief.

Definition: According to Cambridge Dictionary, “convinced” means “completely certain or sure about something.”

Tips: Use this phrase when you want to emphasize your strong conviction, but be aware of the potential for it to come across as too assertive in certain situations. Use it with confidence, but also with sensitivity to your audience’s expectations.

My Stance Is That: Clarifying Your Position

In the world of essay writing, clarity is key. You want your readers to understand your position on a topic unequivocally. The phrase “My stance is that” is a straightforward way to achieve this, making your perspective clear and concise.

Formal Essays: “My stance is that” is ideal for formal essays, research papers, or any academic writing where you need to express your viewpoint clearly.
Debates and Discussions: In debates or discussions, using this phrase can help you state your position in a way that leaves no room for misinterpretation.
Argumentative Writing: If you’re writing an argumentative essay, this phrase can be particularly effective in presenting your thesis statement.
In a formal essay: “My stance is that access to quality healthcare is a fundamental human right.”
In a debate: “My stance is that stricter environmental regulations are necessary to combat climate change.”
Colleagues: “I firmly hold that”
Friends: “I strongly believe that”
Mentor-Mentee: “My unwavering position is that”
Provides clarity about your position.
Effective for stating your thesis or central argument.
Can be considered somewhat formal for casual writing.
Use it selectively to avoid repetitiveness in your writing.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Follow “My stance is that” with a clear and concise statement of your position or belief.

Definition: According to Cambridge Dictionary, “stance” refers to “a particular way of thinking about something, especially expressed in a publicly stated opinion.”

Tips: Use this phrase when you want to leave no room for ambiguity regarding your position on a topic. It’s especially useful in academic or formal contexts where clarity is paramount.

I Maintain That: Upholding Your Belief

When you want to convey a sense of active commitment to your belief, the phrase “I maintain that” is a powerful choice. It suggests that you not only hold a particular viewpoint but also actively stand by it.

Formal Essays: “I maintain that” is appropriate for formal essays, research papers, or any academic writing where you want to assert your commitment to your belief.
Argumentative Writing: In argumentative essays, this phrase can emphasize your unwavering support for your thesis.
Professional Discussions: Use it in professional discussions or presentations to demonstrate your firm belief in a particular idea or strategy.
In a formal essay: “I maintain that art has the power to shape society and inspire change.”
In a professional presentation: “I maintain that our company’s commitment to sustainability sets us apart from our competitors.”
Colleagues: “I stand firmly by the belief that”
Friends: “I passionately believe that”
Mentor-Mentee: “I uphold the view that”
Expresses active commitment to your belief.
Adds a level of conviction and dedication to your writing or speech.
May come across as overly assertive in some contexts.
Use it judiciously to avoid appearing dogmatic.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Follow “I maintain that” with a clear and concise statement that reinforces your belief.

Definition: According to Cambridge Dictionary, “maintain” means “to continue to believe or do something, or to state that something is true, even though it may not be generally accepted.”

Tips: Use this phrase when you want to emphasize your active commitment to your belief. It conveys a strong sense of dedication and can be particularly effective in persuasive or argumentative writing. However, be mindful of the context and tone to avoid appearing too forceful.

In My Estimation: Emphasizing Thoughtful Consideration

In the realm of essay writing, showcasing your thoughtful consideration of a topic is essential. The phrase “In my estimation” allows you to do just that. It emphasizes that your viewpoint is the result of careful evaluation and analysis.

Formal Essays: “In my estimation” is well-suited for formal essays, academic papers, or any writing where you want to convey that your viewpoint is the result of thorough consideration.
Analytical Writing: If you’re writing an analytical essay, this phrase can underscore the depth of your analysis.
Professional Reports: Use it in professional reports or documents when you want to express that your conclusions are based on meticulous examination.
In a formal essay: “In my estimation, the economic benefits of sustainable agriculture far outweigh the initial investment.”
In a research paper: “In my estimation, the data supports the hypothesis that increased exercise leads to improved mental health .”
Colleagues: “I’ve carefully considered and believe that”
Friends: “After thoughtful reflection, I believe that”
Mentor-Mentee: “In my considered judgment, I hold that”
Demonstrates that your viewpoint is the result of careful analysis.
Adds an air of authority and thoughtfulness to your writing.
May be considered somewhat formal for casual writing.
Use it selectively to avoid overemphasizing your analysis.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Follow “In my estimation” with a clear and concise statement that reflects your thoughtful analysis of the topic.

Definition: According to Cambridge Dictionary, “estimation” refers to “the act of forming an opinion about something.”

Tips: Use this phrase when you want to convey that your viewpoint is the product of thorough consideration and analysis. It’s particularly effective in academic or formal contexts where demonstrating thoughtfulness is important.

To My Way of Thinking: Inviting Perspective

In the world of essay writing, inviting readers to see things from your perspective can be a powerful tool. The phrase “To my way of thinking” does just that. It adds a personal touch and encourages readers to consider your viewpoint.

Formal Essays: “To my way of thinking” is suitable for formal essays, research papers, or any academic writing where you want to invite readers to see things from your perspective.
Opinion Pieces: In opinion-based essays or editorials, this phrase can help you establish your unique viewpoint.
Persuasive Writing: Use it in persuasive essays or speeches to encourage your audience to adopt your perspective.
In a formal essay: “To my way of thinking, the principles of democracy are the foundation of a just society.”
In an opinion piece: “To my way of thinking, the arts play a vital role in fostering creativity and innovation.”
Colleagues: “From my perspective, I believe that”
Friends: “In my view, I think that”
Mentor-Mentee: “To my understanding, I hold that”
Invites readers to consider your viewpoint.
Adds a personal touch to your writing, making it more relatable.
Can be considered somewhat informal for highly formal writing.
Ensure it aligns with the tone and context of your piece.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Follow “To my way of thinking” with a clear statement that presents your perspective or belief.

Definition: According to Cambridge Dictionary, “perspective” refers to “a particular way of considering something.”

Tips: Use this phrase when you want to invite readers to view the topic from your perspective. It adds a personal touch to your writing and encourages engagement by inviting consideration of your viewpoint. Be mindful of the formality of your writing and use it appropriately.

It Appears to Me That: Conveying Introspection and Reflection

In the realm of essay writing, expressing introspection and reflection can add depth to your arguments. The phrase “It appears to me that” allows you to do just that. It conveys a sense of personal contemplation and invites readers to explore your insights.

Formal Essays: “It appears to me that” can be used in formal essays and academic papers when you want to express your viewpoint while acknowledging your own reflection.
Reflective Writing: In reflective essays or pieces where personal insight is valuable, this phrase can emphasize your contemplative approach.
Persuasive Writing: Use it in persuasive essays or speeches to present your arguments as a product of careful consideration.
In a formal essay: “It appears to me that the role of technology in education is continually evolving.”
In a reflective essay: “It appears to me that my experiences have shaped my perspective on leadership.”
Colleagues: “In my personal reflection, I believe that”
Friends: “As I’ve thought about it, I feel that”
Mentor-Mentee: “Through introspection, I’ve come to the conclusion that”
Conveys introspection and personal reflection.
Invites readers to consider your insights and perspective.
May be perceived as somewhat informal for highly formal writing.
Use it in contexts where personal reflection is appropriate.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Follow “It appears to me that” with a clear statement that reflects your introspection and personal insight.

Definition: According to Cambridge Dictionary, “introspection” refers to “the examination of and attention to your own ideas, thoughts, and feelings.”

Tips: Use this phrase when you want to convey a sense of personal reflection and introspection in your writing. It adds depth to your arguments and invites readers to explore your insights. Be mindful of the context and tone of your writing to use it effectively.

My Viewpoint Is That: Clarity in Expression

Clarity in essay writing is paramount, especially when expressing your beliefs. The phrase “My viewpoint is that” is a straightforward way to achieve this, ensuring your perspective is clear and easily understood by your readers.

Formal Essays: “My viewpoint is that” is appropriate for formal essays, academic papers, or any writing where you need to express your viewpoint with precision.
Analytical Writing: If you’re writing an analytical essay or report, this phrase can help you present your perspective in a clear and concise manner.
Professional Documents: Use it in professional documents, such as reports or proposals, to ensure your viewpoint is explicitly stated.
In a formal essay: “My viewpoint is that cultural diversity enriches our society in numerous ways.”
In a professional report: “My viewpoint is that the proposed strategy aligns with our long-term goals.”
Colleagues: “I hold the perspective that”
Friends: “I believe that”
Mentor-Mentee: “From my standpoint, I think that”
Provides clarity and precision in expressing your viewpoint.
Suitable for both formal and professional writing contexts.
May sound somewhat formal for casual writing.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Follow “My viewpoint is that” with a clear and concise statement of your perspective or belief.

Definition: According to Cambridge Dictionary, “viewpoint” refers to “a way of considering something.”

Tips: Use this phrase when you want to ensure your viewpoint is expressed with utmost clarity. It’s particularly effective in formal and professional contexts where precision is crucial. Be mindful of the context and tone to use it appropriately.

In My Considered Judgment: A Deliberate Perspective

When you wish to convey a perspective rooted in careful thought and consideration, the phrase “In my considered judgment” is a distinguished choice. It signifies that your viewpoint is the product of thorough analysis and evaluation.

Formal Essays: “In my considered judgment” is fitting for formal essays, research papers, or academic writing where you want to emphasize your thoughtful approach.
Analytical Writing: In analytical essays or reports, this phrase can underscore the depth of your analysis and conclusions.
Professional Reports: Use it in professional documents, such as reports or proposals, to express that your judgments are based on meticulous examination.
In a formal essay: “In my considered judgment, the ethical implications of artificial intelligence warrant careful scrutiny.”
In a professional report: “In my considered judgment, the data indicates a need for strategic adjustments in our marketing approach.”
Colleagues: “I’ve thoroughly examined and believe that”
Friends: “After careful thought, I feel that”
Mentor-Mentee: “Through in-depth analysis, I’ve arrived at the conclusion that”
Conveys a perspective rooted in careful analysis and judgment.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Follow “In my considered judgment” with a clear and concise statement that reflects your thorough analysis and judgment.

Definition: According to Cambridge Dictionary, “considered” means “thought carefully about something.”

Tips: Use this phrase when you want to emphasize the depth of your analysis and judgment in your writing. It adds a sense of authority and thoughtfulness to your arguments, making it particularly effective in formal and professional contexts. Be mindful of the context and tone to use it appropriately.

From My Perspective: Sharing Personal Insight

In the world of essay writing, sharing personal insight can be a powerful way to engage your readers. The phrase “From my perspective” accomplishes just that. It conveys that your viewpoint is shaped by your unique experiences and observations.

Formal Essays: “From my perspective” is suitable for formal essays, research papers, or academic writing where you want to incorporate a personal touch.
Persuasive Writing: In persuasive essays or speeches, this phrase can make your arguments more relatable by emphasizing your personal viewpoint.
Professional Communication: Use it in professional emails, reports, or documents when you want to express your perspective while acknowledging its personal nature.
In a formal essay: “From my perspective, the role of art in society extends beyond aesthetics; it serves as a reflection of our cultural identity .”
In a professional email: “From my perspective, the proposed project timeline is ambitious but achievable.”
Colleagues: “Based on my experiences and observations, I believe that”
Friends: “In my personal view, I think that”
Mentor-Mentee: “Drawing from my own insights, I hold that”
Shares personal insight and experiences, making your writing more relatable.
Adds a personal touch while maintaining a formal tone.
May not be suitable for highly formal or objective writing where personal perspective is discouraged.
Use it in contexts where personal insight is relevant and adds value.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Follow “From my perspective” with a clear statement that presents your personal viewpoint or belief.

Tips: Use this phrase when you want to incorporate a personal touch and share your unique perspective in your writing. It can make your arguments more relatable and engaging, particularly in formal and professional contexts. Be mindful of the context and tone to use it effectively.

To My Mind: Expressing Personal Opinion

When you want to express your personal opinion in a straightforward and clear manner, the phrase “To my mind” is an excellent choice. It allows you to share your viewpoint while maintaining a respectful and thoughtful tone.

Formal Essays: “To my mind” can be used in formal essays, research papers, or academic writing to express your personal opinion in a respectful way.
Persuasive Writing: In persuasive essays or speeches, this phrase can help you present your arguments as the product of your personal perspective.
Professional Correspondence: Use it in professional emails, reports, or documents to convey your opinion while acknowledging its personal nature.
In a formal essay: “To my mind , the ethical implications of genetic engineering are complex and require careful consideration.”
In a professional report: “To my mind, the proposed marketing strategy aligns well with our brand identity.”
Colleagues: “In my personal opinion, I believe that”
Friends: “Personally, I think that”
Mentor-Mentee: “In my view, I hold that”
Expresses personal opinion in a clear and respectful manner.
May not be appropriate in highly formal or objective writing.
Use it selectively to avoid overemphasizing personal opinion.

Grammar/Usage Rule: Follow “To my mind” with a clear and concise statement that presents your personal opinion or belief.

Definition: According to Cambridge Dictionary, “mind” refers to “the part of a person that makes it possible for him or her to think, feel emotions, and understand things.”

Tips: Use this phrase when you want to express your personal opinion in a clear and respectful way. It’s particularly effective in formal and professional contexts where you want to convey your viewpoint while maintaining a respectful tone. Be mindful of the context and tone to use it appropriately.

In conclusion, mastering the art of expression is crucial in essay writing. “12 Other Ways to Say ‘I Believe’ in an Essay” equips you with the tools needed to articulate your beliefs effectively. With these alternatives, you’ll infuse your essays with freshness and sophistication, leaving a lasting impression on your readers.

So go ahead, explore these phrases, and watch your writing soar to new heights.

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What Is Another Way to Say “I Believe”?

September 18, 2023

Kahlan House

You want to express your opinion in an argumentative or discursive essay.

But is it appropriate to use the phrase I believe in academic writing?

We’ll discuss the correctness of this phrase below. In addition, we’ll show you 6 alternative phrases that you can use to diversify your papers and avoid personal pronouns as needed.

6 Alternative Ways to Say “I Believe” in an Essay

Below, you’ll find 6 alternative phrases to I believe that you can use in your academic writing:

One might argue
From my perspective
This illustrates
It is the author’s opinion
I would argue

1. It Appears

You can use the phrase it appears when you want to state your opinion about an issue without using the personal pronoun “I.”

This phrase implies that you are about to extrapolate from some data or something you have observed . Therefore, you are expressing what you think that data indicates.

The benefit of this phrase is that it doesn’t state your observation as a hard and clear fact.

Instead, it suggests that you are simply making an observation that the reader can consider and form their own opinion about.

This makes it a good, tentative phrase for when you want to point something out without making any sweeping statements on the topic.

For example:

Upon studying the graph above, it appears that the impacts of the pandemic have had a lasting effect on small businesses more so than their larger, corporate counterparts.

2. One Might Argue

One might argue is a great phrase to use in an argumentative essay when you want to set out your opinion on your topic without using any personal pronouns.

The inclusion of “might” makes it clear that you are only suggesting a possible argument based on all the information you have provided in your paper.

See how we’ve used it in an example:

One might argue that the pursuit of a sustainable diet requires more than simply switching to plant-based meals, but rather a greater participation in land reform activism.

3. From My Perspective

From my perspective is another way to say I believe in an essay when you want to clearly and unequivocally state your opinions or beliefs about a topic.

This phrase may be a tad risky since it uses the personal pronoun “my.”

However, it would be perfectly suitable to use this phrase if you have discussed your writing with the marker of your essay.

In addition, it can be just as valuable to base your writing on your perspective if you are a professional or knowledgeable academic in your field.

After all, in this context, you will be providing your expert opinion on the issue.

Thus, stating that you are providing your opinion should be no less compelling to any reader.

Consider the example below:

From my perspective , one must dismantle the lens of Western individualism through which they see the world before they can address the issues caused by colonialism.

4. This Shows

You can use the phrase this shows to come across as more objective in your essay.

After all, you would usually use this phrase to draw a conclusion based on all the evidence you have set out in your paper.

Rather than stating what you as the writer believe, it states what both you and the reader can clearly see from the facts and evidence.

Of course, your conclusion on what certain data shows may differ from someone else. Thus, you can still use this phrase to state what you believe.

However, saying this shows allows you to remove any personal phrasing in the essay. As such, it allows the reader to focus on the facts in front of them.

Therefore, let’s see an essay snippet that includes this phrase:

Many children are given access to social media sites at the age of 13 to 14 on average. It is also around these ages that children report feelings of dread and insecurity. This shows that access to social media is indeed having an impact on the self-worth of pubescents.

5. This Illustrates

This illustrates is essentially a more formal synonym for this shows . Therefore, you can use either one of these phrases interchangeably.

Your choice may depend on the topic and nature of your paper, as well as what you want the prevailing tone of your essay to be.

The phrase this illustrates may come across as a touch more severe due to its formal phrasing. Meanwhile, this shows is more straightforward and accessible to read.

Check out this example to see this phrase in action:

Many respondents expressed distrust in many if not all of the reports from mainstream news stations. This illustrates how faith in the journalistic integrity of our media has decreased over the last decade.

6. It Is the Author’s Opinion

You can say it is the author’s opinion in your essay when you want to make clear that you are expressing your personal opinion on an issue.

Moreover, you can do this while still avoiding the phrase I believe and the use of personal pronouns. This will often suffice even according to stricter academics!

This phrase may be considered a tad verbose and outdated in modern times.

However, many writers prefer it as a stylistic choice.

Additionally, it’s a good way to ramp up your word count if you are struggling to reach your minimum!

See the example below:

Most experts have pointed to food processing procedures as the main culprit. However, it is the author’s opinion that the air quality in the city center plays a far greater role.

Is It Okay to Say “I Believe” in an Essay?

It is okay to say I believe in an essay in some circumstances .

There are many differing opinions over whether people should use personal pronouns in their essays, particularly in argumentative essays.

Some academics argue that phrases like I believe are redundant in an argumentative essay .

After all, the point of the essay is to express your opinions on a topic, so there’s no need to state as much.

However, many other academics argue that whether it is correct to say I believe depends greatly on the topic of the article, the style of the writer, and the intent of the paper.

Below, we’ll show you how to say I believe in an essay using two faux essay snippets:

However, I believe , and shall illustrate in this paper, that the Constitution is as malleable as the opinions and biases of those who are granted the power to interpret its content.

It is clear that our current procedures to ensure sustainability do not go far enough, and I believe this will be obvious to anyone privy to the current water crisis affecting several states in the south.

So, we know that there are instances in which you can use I believe in an academic essay.

However, personal pronouns are not preferred by all academics and are a risky choice in general.

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Other-Ways-To-Say-I-Believe-In-An-Essay

Unveiling the diversity of conviction:.

Other Ways to Convey Belief in Your Essay

Belief, a cornerstone of human cognition, permeates every facet of our existence. It underpins our actions, shapes our perceptions, and defines our identities. In the realm of academia, expressing belief in an essay is not merely a matter of stating a personal stance; it’s an art form that requires nuance, sophistication, and a keen awareness of language’s power to captivate and persuade. In this exploration, we embark on a journey to uncover the myriad expressions that transcend the mundane proclamation of “I believe” in scholarly discourse. Prepare to delve into a tapestry of eloquence, where conviction intertwines with creativity to elevate your writing to new heights.

Other Ways to Say “I Believe” in an Essay:

Asserting Certainty: When crafting your essay, infuse your prose with unwavering confidence. Replace the pedestrian “I believe” with resolute affirmations such as “I am convinced,” “I am certain,” or “I have no doubt.” These declarations not only exude authority but also convey a steadfast commitment to your viewpoint.
Embracing Conviction: Embrace the fervor of your beliefs by employing expressions that resonate with passion and conviction. Instead of merely stating your stance, inject vigor into your writing with phrases like “I am steadfast in my conviction that,” “It is my firm belief that,” or “I am deeply convinced that.” Such language imbues your essay with emotional resonance, compelling readers to empathize with your perspective.
Expressing Confidence: Confidence is key when articulating your beliefs. Replace the generic “I believe” with assertive statements such as “I am confident that,” “It is my unwavering belief that,” or “Without hesitation, I affirm.” By exuding certainty and assurance, you invite readers to trust in the validity of your arguments and insights.
Conveying Faith: In the tapestry of language, faith weaves a thread of unwavering trust and belief. Infuse your essay with the essence of faith by employing expressions like “I have faith in,” “I place my trust in,” or “I am steadfast in my faith that.” Such phrases not only convey belief but also evoke a sense of devotion and loyalty to your convictions.
Affirming Conviction: Strengthen the fabric of your argument by affirming your conviction with unwavering resolve. Replace the commonplace “I believe” with resolute affirmations such as “I am resolutely convinced,” “It is my unwavering conviction that,” or “I stand firmly by the belief that.” By asserting your conviction with clarity and determination, you establish yourself as a credible and persuasive voice in the academic discourse.
Declaring Allegiance: Declare your allegiance to your beliefs with unwavering certainty and resolve. Replace the generic “I believe” with declarations such as “I pledge allegiance to,” “I stand unwaveringly by,” or “I am steadfast in my allegiance to.” By articulating your commitment with clarity and conviction, you invite readers to align themselves with your perspective and join you in the journey of exploration and discovery.
Emphasizing Confidence: Confidence is the bedrock upon which belief stands tall. Infuse your essay with unwavering confidence by employing expressions such as “I am confident in asserting that,” “It is with full confidence that I state,” or “Without a shadow of a doubt, I affirm.” By exuding assurance and conviction, you compel readers to engage with your ideas with trust and respect.

In the realm of academic writing, the expression of belief transcends the mere declaration of personal opinion; it is a testament to the depth of one’s convictions and the power of language to convey them. By embracing the diverse array of expressions that go beyond the mundane “I believe,” you enrich your writing with nuance, sophistication, and persuasive power. So, as you embark on your next essay-writing odyssey, remember to wield the language with finesse, and let your beliefs shine brightly through the tapestry of your prose.

20 Other Ways to Say ‘I Believe’

When expressing our thoughts and opinions, we often find ourselves using the phrase ‘I believe.’ While there is nothing wrong with this expression, it can become repetitive and dull if used too frequently.

Thankfully, the English language offers us a wide range of alternatives to convey our beliefs and viewpoints. In this article, we will explore 20 different ways to say ‘I believe,’ along with examples to help you understand their usage.

So let’s dive in and expand our vocabulary to express our convictions more creatively.

Table of Contents

As I Perceive It

My take on this is, i have a hunch that, from where i stand.

My Way of Looking at It

In My Judgment

Personally, i feel that.

In My Point of View

To the Best of My Knowledge

If You Ask Me

As far as I’m concerned

In my opinion, from my perspective, it is my view, to my way of thinking, as far as my research indicates, it seems to me, i’m of the belief that, i’m of the mindset that, my understanding is that.

When you want to share your perspective or understanding of a particular matter, ‘as I perceive it’ is a great alternative to ‘I believe.’ This phrase emphasizes that your viewpoint is based on your perception and interpretation.

For example:

As I perceive it, the key to a successful relationship lies in effective communication and mutual respect.
The situation, as I perceive it, requires immediate attention and strategic planning.

If you want to express your personal opinion or viewpoint, ‘my take on this is’ is an excellent phrase to use. It conveys that you are about to share your perspective on a particular subject.

Here are a couple of examples:

My take on this is that social media has revolutionized the way we connect and communicate with others.
When it comes to self-improvement, my take on this is that small, consistent steps lead to significant progress.

Sometimes, our beliefs and convictions are based on a gut feeling or intuition. In such cases, ‘I have a hunch that’ is a perfect phrase to convey that sense of intuition.

Here’s how it can be used:

I have a hunch that our team will emerge victorious in the upcoming competition
Despite the lack of evidence, I have a hunch that there is more to this story than meets the eye.

When you want to emphasize that your belief is influenced by your personal experiences or circumstances, ‘from where I stand’ is an ideal phrase to use. It highlights that your perspective is shaped by your unique position.

Consider the following examples:

From where I stand, it is evident that climate change is a pressing issue that requires immediate action.
The challenges faced by small businesses, from where I stand, are often overlooked by policymakers.

My Way of Looking at It

If you want to emphasize that your belief is based on your specific way of perceiving things, ‘to my way of looking at it’ is a suitable phrase. It conveys that your viewpoint is subjective and influenced by your perspective.

To my way of looking at it, failure is not the opposite of success but rather a stepping stone towards it.
The solution, to my way of looking at it, lies in fostering a culture of inclusivity and diversity.

When you want to express your belief based on your careful evaluation or assessment, ‘in my judgment’ is an effective phrase to use. It emphasizes that your viewpoint is the result of your analysis or appraisal.

In my judgment, the proposed changes will lead to improved efficiency and productivity.
The evidence presented, in my judgment, clearly supports the hypothesis put forth by the researcher.

To add a touch of personal sentiment to your belief, ‘ I feel that’ is a great phrase to use. It conveys that your viewpoint is not merely a rational deduction but is also influenced by your emotions or personal experiences.

Personally, I feel that traveling broadens our horizons and enriches our understanding of the world.
The book, personally, I feel that it offers valuable insights into the human condition.

In My Point of View

When you want to express your belief from your unique perspective or standpoint, ‘in my point of view’ is a suitable phrase to use. It highlights that your viewpoint is subjective and influenced by your individual experiences.

In my point of view, education is the cornerstone of societal progress and individual growth
The issue, in my point of view, requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both the symptoms and root causes.

To convey a belief based on the information you possess, you can use the phrase ‘to the best of my knowledge.’ This phrase implies that you are sharing your belief based on what you currently know, but you remain open to updating your understanding

To the best of my knowledge, the company has not yet made a final decision regarding the project.

The historical events, to the best of my knowledge, unfolded in a manner that shaped the course of our civilization.

If You Ask Me

When you want to offer your opinion or viewpoint without being asked directly, ‘if you ask me’ is a useful phrase to use. It conveys that you are about to share your beliefs voluntarily. Consider the following examples:

If you ask me, a healthy work-life balance is essential for overall well-being and productivity.
The movie, if you ask me, offers a thought-provoking exploration of existential themes.

When expressing a strong personal belief, you can use the phrase ‘as far as I’m concerned.’ This phrase highlights that the following statement is your own subjective belief and may not be universally agreed upon.

For example:

As far as I’m concerned, traveling broadens one’s horizons and allows for personal growth. It exposes you to different cultures and perspectives, helping you become a more well-rounded individual.
As far as I’m concerned, life is all about finding your passion, setting goals, and working towards them every day.

One of the most commonly used alternatives to ‘I believe’ is ‘in my opinion.’ This phrase is straightforward and indicates that you are about to express a personal viewpoint.

Here’s an example:

In my opinion, art is an essential part of human existence. It serves as a medium for self-expression and can evoke emotions that words alone cannot convey.
In my opinion, reading is a wonderful way to expand your mind and explore new worlds. You can unwind and get away from the pressures of daily life with its help.

To emphasize that your belief is based on your unique viewpoint, you can use the phrase ‘from my perspective.’ This phrase suggests that you are looking at the situation from a particular vantage point.

Consider the following example:

From my perspective, failure is not something to be feared but rather an opportunity for growth and learning. We are forced out of what is familiar to us, which enables us to reach our full potential.
From my perspective, being kind to animals is one of the most important things you can do. They have feelings too, and they deserve our love and respect.

When you want to assert your belief with confidence and authority, you can use the phrase ‘it is my view.’ This phrase implies that you have thoroughly considered the matter and have arrived at a well-founded opinion.

It is my view that technology has revolutionized the way we live and has greatly improved our quality of life. From instant communication to easy access to information, its impact is undeniable.
It is my view that a moment of stillness and silence is essential for mental health.

Similar to ‘it is my view,’ the phrase ‘to my way of thinking’ conveys a strong personal belief while acknowledging that others may hold different opinions. This phrase allows you to present your perspective without dismissing alternative viewpoints.

To my way of thinking, education is not confined to the four walls of a classroom. Learning can happen anywhere, at any time, through various experiences and interactions.
To my way of thinking, spending time in nature is the best way to recharge and refresh your mind.

When you want to express a belief supported by research or factual evidence, you can use the phrase ‘as far as my research indicates.’ This phrase highlights that your belief is not solely based on personal opinion but is backed by credible information.

As far as my research indicates, regular exercise has numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular function, increased strength, and reduced risk of chronic diseases.
As far as my research indicates, there is a strong link between mental health and physical health. Looking after one will benefit the other.

When expressing a belief that is not yet fully formed or may be subject to change, you can use the phrase ‘it seems to me.’ This phrase indicates that you are sharing your initial impression or understanding.

It seems to me that technological advancements have both positive and negative consequences. While it brings convenience and efficiency, it also raises concerns about privacy and social disconnect.
It seems to me that time spent outdoors is good for the soul.

To convey a belief that you hold, but acknowledge that others may hold different views, you can use the phrase ‘I’m of the belief that.’ This phrase allows for open-mindedness and encourages respectful dialogue.

I’m of the belief that everyone should have equal access to healthcare. It is a fundamental right, and ensuring affordable and quality healthcare benefits not only individuals but society as a whole.
I’m of the belief that every person should strive to live a life of purpose, with meaning and intention.

Similar to ‘I’m of the belief that,’ the phrase ‘I’m of the mindset that’ conveys a belief while acknowledging alternative perspectives. This phrase suggests that your belief is shaped by your mindset or way of thinking.

I’m of the mindset that failure is not a setback but rather a stepping stone towards success. It provides valuable lessons and opportunities for growth if approached with resilience and perseverance.
I’m of the mindset that to truly live a fulfilling and meaningful life, we must connect with our innermost selves and understand what truly drives us.

When you want to express a belief based on your understanding of a particular subject, you can use the phrase ‘my understanding is that.’ This phrase suggests that your belief is formed through careful consideration and knowledge.

My understanding is that climate change is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. The scientific evidence overwhelmingly supports the need for collective action to mitigate its impact.
My understanding is that true connection with others requires vulnerability, honesty, and authenticity. Without these, we remain stuck in superficial relationships that can never fully satisfy our need for connection.

By incorporating these alternative phrases into your vocabulary, you can express your beliefs more effectively and add variety to your conversations.

Whether you want to assert your beliefs confidently, demonstrate tentative belief, or indicate understanding and knowledge, there are numerous ways to say ‘I believe’ that cater to different contexts and nuances.

So, go ahead and experiment with these alternatives to elevate your communication skills and engage in meaningful discussions.

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Engoo ► Blog ► Language Tips

Still Saying “I Think”? Try One of These Phrases Instead

Table of Contents

You’ve probably noticed that native speakers use a variety of phrases to express their thoughts – definitely a lot more than “I think” and “in my opinion.”

Today, we’ll go through five common alternatives and explain them in detail so you know exactly what they mean and when you can use them to express your opinions in English with more nuance.

“Find” usually means to discover something that’s lost. But here, it has another related meaning: “to discover something through your own observation.” So saying “I find” is like saying “Based on what I have discovered, I think.”

For example, if someone asked you what you thought about baking, you might reply:

I find baking quite difficult.
I find baking to be quite difficult.

The difference between these statements and “I think baking is quite difficult” is that you can only say “I find” if you’ve actually tried to bake and discovered that it was difficult. On the other hand, you can say “I think” even if you’ve never tried before.

Here’s someone who finds baking relaxing:

A good attempt at croissants this morning for breakfast. I find baking really relaxing (and tasty of course!) 🥐 🥐 pic.twitter.com/1Lutk0dqhF — Mark Swift (@Mark_Sw1ft) August 18, 2020

Keep in mind that “I find” doesn’t need to be used only for things you’ve tried.

I find his opinions quite convincing.
I find this painting so moving .

If you find someone’s opinions convincing, you’ve probably spent some time reading their opinions and discovered that they make sense and you agree with them. If you find a painting moving, you’ve spent time looking at a painting or a movie and found that it moves you.

2. I believe

I truly, truly believe that beauty is something that comes from within. Emma Watson

“I believe” is an expression used to introduce some principles that are important to us. It has also become a way to say “I think” with greater certainty. When you say “I believe” before sharing an opinion, it’s almost like you’re saying “I think … , and I’m sure about it.”

For example, if you are being interviewed for a job, you could say “I think I will be an asset to your company,” but it’s more convincing to say “I believe … .” Here’s an example from a business English lesson :

Here are some more examples from private emails of a US company (made public after a scandal):

Recently, I have done a review of our portfolio and I believe our accounting loss exposure for 2001 is limited.
My employment with Enron is to be terminated, the reason given by HR, for not meeting performance standards. However, I firmly believe that this is not the real reason.

3. I’m guessing

“I’m guessing” can literally mean “I am taking a guess.” However, “I’m guessing” can also be a way to say “I think” with a little more certainty. “I’m guessing” basically means “Based on my observations, I think … .”

From the look on his face, I’m guessing he failed the interview.
I’m guessing the stock market will crash after the election.

In the following video, the speaker uses “I’m guessing” to make an observation about herself.

You might be wondering how “I’m guessing” differs from “I guess.” “I guess” can also be used to mean “I think,” but because it has other meanings and connotations (including reluctance), we recommend sticking to “I’m guessing.”

4. I have a feeling

“I have a feeling” is similar to “I’m guessing.” (If you have to put a finger on the difference) “I’m guessing” is usually based on an observation, “I have a feeling” is based more on intuition . It comes from within.

However, in practice, statements starting with “I’m guessing” and “I have a feeling” are usually based on a combination of intuition and observation. “I’m guessing” just sounds slightly more certain. It’s usually used to say how you feel about some future event.

I don’t know why, but I have a feeling Belgium’s going to win the World Cup this time.
I haven’t watched the movie yet, but I have a feeling it’ll suck.

However, you can also use “I have a feeling” for things that are happening now or have already happened in the past.

I have a feeling this policy was made by politicians who are totally out of touch with reality.
I have a feeling those buyers are interested in our house.

Finally, let’s not forget that it’s also important to say when you don’t think a certain way. A popular English expression to say this is: “I doubt.” This means “I think it’s unlikely (X will happen/X is true).”

For example, here it is in the same library of business emails:

I doubt a week extension would give them much more comfort, but would probably be nice to have.
I doubt that he will want to talk about it without his lawyer.

To sum up, here’s a chart that shows how certain each expression sounds compared to “I know.”

In the meantime, if you want to practice sharing your opinions with the expressions covered in this post, book a lesson with one of our tutors. We have plenty of discussion lessons to get you started!

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40 Useful Words and Phrases for Top-Notch Essays

To be truly brilliant, an essay needs to utilise the right language. You could make a great point, but if it’s not intelligently articulated, you almost needn’t have bothered.

Developing the language skills to build an argument and to write persuasively is crucial if you’re to write outstanding essays every time. In this article, we’re going to equip you with the words and phrases you need to write a top-notch essay, along with examples of how to utilise them.

It’s by no means an exhaustive list, and there will often be other ways of using the words and phrases we describe that we won’t have room to include, but there should be more than enough below to help you make an instant improvement to your essay-writing skills.

If you’re interested in developing your language and persuasive skills, Oxford Royale offers summer courses at its Oxford Summer School , Cambridge Summer School , London Summer School , San Francisco Summer School and Yale Summer School . You can study courses to learn english , prepare for careers in law , medicine , business , engineering and leadership.

General explaining

Let’s start by looking at language for general explanations of complex points.

1. In order to

Usage: “In order to” can be used to introduce an explanation for the purpose of an argument. Example: “In order to understand X, we need first to understand Y.”

2. In other words

Usage: Use “in other words” when you want to express something in a different way (more simply), to make it easier to understand, or to emphasise or expand on a point. Example: “Frogs are amphibians. In other words, they live on the land and in the water.”

3. To put it another way

Usage: This phrase is another way of saying “in other words”, and can be used in particularly complex points, when you feel that an alternative way of wording a problem may help the reader achieve a better understanding of its significance. Example: “Plants rely on photosynthesis. To put it another way, they will die without the sun.”

4. That is to say

Usage: “That is” and “that is to say” can be used to add further detail to your explanation, or to be more precise. Example: “Whales are mammals. That is to say, they must breathe air.”

5. To that end

Usage: Use “to that end” or “to this end” in a similar way to “in order to” or “so”. Example: “Zoologists have long sought to understand how animals communicate with each other. To that end, a new study has been launched that looks at elephant sounds and their possible meanings.”

Adding additional information to support a point

Students often make the mistake of using synonyms of “and” each time they want to add further information in support of a point they’re making, or to build an argument . Here are some cleverer ways of doing this.

6. Moreover

Usage: Employ “moreover” at the start of a sentence to add extra information in support of a point you’re making. Example: “Moreover, the results of a recent piece of research provide compelling evidence in support of…”

7. Furthermore

Usage:This is also generally used at the start of a sentence, to add extra information. Example: “Furthermore, there is evidence to suggest that…”

8. What’s more

Usage: This is used in the same way as “moreover” and “furthermore”. Example: “What’s more, this isn’t the only evidence that supports this hypothesis.”

9. Likewise

Usage: Use “likewise” when you want to talk about something that agrees with what you’ve just mentioned. Example: “Scholar A believes X. Likewise, Scholar B argues compellingly in favour of this point of view.”

10. Similarly

Usage: Use “similarly” in the same way as “likewise”. Example: “Audiences at the time reacted with shock to Beethoven’s new work, because it was very different to what they were used to. Similarly, we have a tendency to react with surprise to the unfamiliar.”

11. Another key thing to remember

Usage: Use the phrase “another key point to remember” or “another key fact to remember” to introduce additional facts without using the word “also”. Example: “As a Romantic, Blake was a proponent of a closer relationship between humans and nature. Another key point to remember is that Blake was writing during the Industrial Revolution, which had a major impact on the world around him.”

12. As well as

Usage: Use “as well as” instead of “also” or “and”. Example: “Scholar A argued that this was due to X, as well as Y.”

13. Not only… but also

Usage: This wording is used to add an extra piece of information, often something that’s in some way more surprising or unexpected than the first piece of information. Example: “Not only did Edmund Hillary have the honour of being the first to reach the summit of Everest, but he was also appointed Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire.”

14. Coupled with

Usage: Used when considering two or more arguments at a time. Example: “Coupled with the literary evidence, the statistics paint a compelling view of…”

15. Firstly, secondly, thirdly…

Usage: This can be used to structure an argument, presenting facts clearly one after the other. Example: “There are many points in support of this view. Firstly, X. Secondly, Y. And thirdly, Z.

16. Not to mention/to say nothing of

Usage: “Not to mention” and “to say nothing of” can be used to add extra information with a bit of emphasis. Example: “The war caused unprecedented suffering to millions of people, not to mention its impact on the country’s economy.”

Words and phrases for demonstrating contrast

When you’re developing an argument, you will often need to present contrasting or opposing opinions or evidence – “it could show this, but it could also show this”, or “X says this, but Y disagrees”. This section covers words you can use instead of the “but” in these examples, to make your writing sound more intelligent and interesting.

17. However

Usage: Use “however” to introduce a point that disagrees with what you’ve just said. Example: “Scholar A thinks this. However, Scholar B reached a different conclusion.”

18. On the other hand

Usage: Usage of this phrase includes introducing a contrasting interpretation of the same piece of evidence, a different piece of evidence that suggests something else, or an opposing opinion. Example: “The historical evidence appears to suggest a clear-cut situation. On the other hand, the archaeological evidence presents a somewhat less straightforward picture of what happened that day.”

19. Having said that

Usage: Used in a similar manner to “on the other hand” or “but”. Example: “The historians are unanimous in telling us X, an agreement that suggests that this version of events must be an accurate account. Having said that, the archaeology tells a different story.”

20. By contrast/in comparison

Usage: Use “by contrast” or “in comparison” when you’re comparing and contrasting pieces of evidence. Example: “Scholar A’s opinion, then, is based on insufficient evidence. By contrast, Scholar B’s opinion seems more plausible.”

21. Then again

Usage: Use this to cast doubt on an assertion. Example: “Writer A asserts that this was the reason for what happened. Then again, it’s possible that he was being paid to say this.”

22. That said

Usage: This is used in the same way as “then again”. Example: “The evidence ostensibly appears to point to this conclusion. That said, much of the evidence is unreliable at best.”

Usage: Use this when you want to introduce a contrasting idea. Example: “Much of scholarship has focused on this evidence. Yet not everyone agrees that this is the most important aspect of the situation.”

Adding a proviso or acknowledging reservations

Sometimes, you may need to acknowledge a shortfalling in a piece of evidence, or add a proviso. Here are some ways of doing so.

24. Despite this

Usage: Use “despite this” or “in spite of this” when you want to outline a point that stands regardless of a shortfalling in the evidence. Example: “The sample size was small, but the results were important despite this.”

25. With this in mind

Usage: Use this when you want your reader to consider a point in the knowledge of something else. Example: “We’ve seen that the methods used in the 19th century study did not always live up to the rigorous standards expected in scientific research today, which makes it difficult to draw definite conclusions. With this in mind, let’s look at a more recent study to see how the results compare.”

26. Provided that

Usage: This means “on condition that”. You can also say “providing that” or just “providing” to mean the same thing. Example: “We may use this as evidence to support our argument, provided that we bear in mind the limitations of the methods used to obtain it.”

27. In view of/in light of

Usage: These phrases are used when something has shed light on something else. Example: “In light of the evidence from the 2013 study, we have a better understanding of…”

28. Nonetheless

Usage: This is similar to “despite this”. Example: “The study had its limitations, but it was nonetheless groundbreaking for its day.”

29. Nevertheless

Usage: This is the same as “nonetheless”. Example: “The study was flawed, but it was important nevertheless.”

30. Notwithstanding

Usage: This is another way of saying “nonetheless”. Example: “Notwithstanding the limitations of the methodology used, it was an important study in the development of how we view the workings of the human mind.”

Giving examples

Good essays always back up points with examples, but it’s going to get boring if you use the expression “for example” every time. Here are a couple of other ways of saying the same thing.

31. For instance

Example: “Some birds migrate to avoid harsher winter climates. Swallows, for instance, leave the UK in early winter and fly south…”

32. To give an illustration

Example: “To give an illustration of what I mean, let’s look at the case of…”

Signifying importance

When you want to demonstrate that a point is particularly important, there are several ways of highlighting it as such.

33. Significantly

Usage: Used to introduce a point that is loaded with meaning that might not be immediately apparent. Example: “Significantly, Tacitus omits to tell us the kind of gossip prevalent in Suetonius’ accounts of the same period.”

34. Notably

Usage: This can be used to mean “significantly” (as above), and it can also be used interchangeably with “in particular” (the example below demonstrates the first of these ways of using it). Example: “Actual figures are notably absent from Scholar A’s analysis.”

35. Importantly

Usage: Use “importantly” interchangeably with “significantly”. Example: “Importantly, Scholar A was being employed by X when he wrote this work, and was presumably therefore under pressure to portray the situation more favourably than he perhaps might otherwise have done.”

Summarising

You’ve almost made it to the end of the essay, but your work isn’t over yet. You need to end by wrapping up everything you’ve talked about, showing that you’ve considered the arguments on both sides and reached the most likely conclusion. Here are some words and phrases to help you.

36. In conclusion

Usage: Typically used to introduce the concluding paragraph or sentence of an essay, summarising what you’ve discussed in a broad overview. Example: “In conclusion, the evidence points almost exclusively to Argument A.”

37. Above all

Usage: Used to signify what you believe to be the most significant point, and the main takeaway from the essay. Example: “Above all, it seems pertinent to remember that…”

38. Persuasive

Usage: This is a useful word to use when summarising which argument you find most convincing. Example: “Scholar A’s point – that Constanze Mozart was motivated by financial gain – seems to me to be the most persuasive argument for her actions following Mozart’s death.”

39. Compelling

Usage: Use in the same way as “persuasive” above. Example: “The most compelling argument is presented by Scholar A.”

40. All things considered

Usage: This means “taking everything into account”. Example: “All things considered, it seems reasonable to assume that…”

How many of these words and phrases will you get into your next essay? And are any of your favourite essay terms missing from our list? Let us know in the comments below, or get in touch here to find out more about courses that can help you with your essays.

At Oxford Royale Academy, we offer a number of summer school courses for young people who are keen to improve their essay writing skills. Click here to apply for one of our courses today, including law , business , medicine and engineering .

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KathySteinemann.com: Free Resources for Writers and Poets

Word lists, cheat sheets, and sometimes irreverent reviews of writing rules. kathy steinemann is the author of the writer's lexicon series..

30+ Ways to Avoid Repetition of “I” in First-Person Writing

First-person narrative engages readers, who experience the world from your narrator’s perspective — including intimate thoughts and feelings. However, it’s easy to overplay constructions such as I did this and I thought that and I wanted something else.

Many people claim the I, I, I approach is permissible because I is an invisible word like said .

Don’t believe them.

Prose or poetry with an overabundance of the same words or structures will seem off. Readers might not be able to tell you what’s wrong, but they know they’re unsettled by something .

Consider the Following Two Story Snippets

I answered the irresistible beckoning of the backyard. I watched brightly colored birds there frolicking in the breeze as they fluttered toward the creek. I closed my eyes and felt the warmth of the sun . I smelled the fragrance of the clover underneath my feet, a fragrance so sweet I could almost taste it. I heard fledgling robins twittering in a nearby tree.

I thought to myself , This is the life. I knew I never wanted to leave this place.

I decided to phone the real estate agent and tell her to take the FOR SALE sign off my lawn. She acted as though she had expected my call.

I told her in a firm voice that my mind was made up, and yes, I understood she would still receive her full commission.

I realized I didn’t care about the money.

The backyard beckoned with its irresistible sights and sounds. Frolicking in the breeze, brightly colored birds fluttered toward the creek. The sun warmed my closed eyelids, and my nostrils were flooded by the sweet fragrance of clover underneath my feet, a fragrance so sweet it almost sugared the taste buds. In a nearby tree, fledgling robins twittered.

This is the life. Who in their right mind would ever leave this place?

The real estate agent acted as though she had expected my call when asked to take the FOR SALE sign off the lawn.

My voice was firm. “Yes, my mind is made up. … Understood. … You’ll still receive your full commission.”

Hah! Who cares about the money?

Beware Verbosity

Rewrites could result in bloat, and the wrong words could make you seem pretentious or long-winded.

The second snippet reduces, rather than increases, word count.

The first example would be even shorter with the removal of to myself. Who else would you think to? Your editor? Your cat? Or maybe your dictation software?

Did You Notice the Changes?

Almost every sentence in the first example begins with I.

In the rewrite, note the removal of several filtering phrases:

I watched I … felt I smelled I could … taste I heard I thought I knew I decided I told I understood I realized

Whenever you filter thoughts and senses through your narrator’s eyes, you distance readers from your story — like a selfie of a selfie. Use the direct approach instead.

Passive voice appeared once to vary sentence structure. “I smelled the fragrance of the clover underneath my feet ” became “my nostrils were flooded by the sweet fragrance of clover underneath my feet.”

A so-called rule of writing is not to use passive voice. However, you’ll find times such as this when it’s warranted.

The phrase could also have been written as “my nostrils flooded with the sweet fragrance of clover underneath my feet.”

Reread the examples. Compare again. You’ll notice subtle changes that make the text flow smoother.

A Partial List of Filter Words

Watch for these or their equivalents. They all have the potential to weaken your writing:

A to W assume, be able to, believe, can, decide, experience, feel (or feel like) , hear, know, look, note, notice, realize, remember, see, seem, sound (or sound like), taste, think, touch, watch, wonder

Change the Focus

Just because you’re writing in first person doesn’t mean you, the storyteller, should be the most important character in the piece.

If you concentrate on the activities of other characters, readers will feel as though they are you. They still know you’re the narrator, but you become invisible.

Try These I Alternatives

I agree: We are in agreement

I am convinced that: In my opinion

I am sure that: Correct me if my opinion is wrong

I believe: The experts say (or, in Dothraki , “It is known”)

I decided: It was my intention

I disagree: You are wrong

I dislike that: That’s not for me

I don’t know: That’s an excellent question

I feel: In light of the evidence

I have experience in: My experience includes

I interpret the results: The results indicate

I like: It’s one of my favorites

I was nearly hit by a car: A car nearly hit me

I’ll show you: The report will show you

I’m hungry: My stomach is growling

Beware the Me-My Snare

In an attempt to remove instances of I, you might introduce excessive repetition of me and my .

For instance, “I felt an irresistible urge to buy the shoes” could become “An irresistible urge to buy the shoes came over me .”

“I saw three chickadees sitting on the fence” could end up as “Three chickadees sitting on the fence came into my view.”

As shown by the strikeout, you can often omit my .

Rely on Your Ears

They’re excellent critics.

Read your text out loud or harness your computer’s text-to-speech capabilities and listen to your writing . Repetitions that hide from notice during a silent read often become obvious and irritating when processed by the ears .

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28 thoughts on “ 30+ Ways to Avoid Repetition of “I” in First-Person Writing ”

how can we replace i in this sentence i had a dream to spend a beautiful day at an island

Sleep, peaceful sleep, filled the night, interrupted only by the dream of an idyllic day on a tiny island.

Hello Kathy,

Me again. Since reading your article, I have made a greater conscious effort in avoiding the use of “I” in my first-person stories. However, in doing so, I’m noticing I am starting to use “-ing” words to begin sentences more often, and I understand that’s something to use sparingly in fiction writing.

I may be over-analysing my works (that’s a bad habit of mine), but if using “I” in a sentence, whether it’s beginning a sentence or in the middle of it, creates a clearer structured sentence when compared to using a “-ing” word, would you say it’s okay to use “I”, or to try and figure out another way of structuring the sentence to avoid either?

On a side note, sometimes when I do avoid both, the sentence gets written in passive voice, as that seems to be the only way to structure it, while keeping it clear and precise. For example, a sentence within a story of mine read: “Rather than wasting time on breakfast, I can use it for more important things, such as training.” After re-editing it, it became: “Rather than wasting time on breakfast, it can be used for more important things, such as training.”

I’m really just trying to determine out of “I”, “-ing”, or passive voice, which is the best to use. Apologies if this is unclear. Sometimes that’s my thought process for you. There’s logic in there, but you’ve gotta dig past all the dribble to find it.

Kind regards, Footrot Flats

Phrases such as the following can help eliminate some instances of “I”:

– experience has shown – statistics indicate – events suggest – circumstances often require

Regarding your sentence: “Rather than wasting time on breakfast, it can be used for more important things, such as training.”

Try something like: “[Whatever ‘it’ is] can focus on activities, such as training, which are more important than breakfast.”

Remember: The goal is not to eliminate words but to eliminate their overuse.

Thank you for the response, Kathy!

I’ll keep those phrases in mind and see if they can be used anywhere that fits. Thank you for the suggestion as well.

I understand it’s okay to use “I”, just not too often, which is what I’m trying to do, but also figuring out how often “I” is fine to use. Finding that ‘Goldilocks Zone’ is my next challenge. If it’s used once every few paragraphs, it doesn’t stick out at me, but if I see two (or more) I’s in the same field of view, that’s when I tend to change it.

I may or may not pop up again sometime in the future. If I don’t, your article and advise has helped me immensely, so thank you for the time and effort you have put in. It’s much appreciated.

All the best, and stay safe too! Footrot Flats

When writing stories, I’ve always tried avoiding the usage of I’s (same goes for adverbs). 95% of the time, there’s an alternative way of describing a scene, whether it’s action, thoughts or dialogue, but something, every now and then, there just doesn’t seem to be a way to avoid using I (or an adverb).

Like adverbs, would you say it’s okay to use ‘I’ sparingly?

In some cases, the word ‘I’ gets replaced with an adverb, and then I enter a never-ending cycle.

Your approach is astute, FF.

Words exist for a reason, including adverbs and I . The goal is not to eliminate them but to reduce their frequency and make them “invisible” to readers. That turns them into useful tools.

Good luck with your writing, and please stay safe! (Exclamation points, em dashes, and parentheses are more useful tools — when used sparingly. 🙂 )

Thank you for the reply Kathy.

I agree that making them “invisible” rather than eliminating them completely is the better approach. Everything would provide a greater impact when used sparingly.

All the best, and stay safe too. Footrot Flats

Hello Kathy, the article above really helped me but i am still just a little confused. . . . would it be alright if you could un-I-ify my story. i haven’t written much and i probably wont be using it, but just to get a rough idea on how i could do it.

I was sitting on the train minding my own business and reading a book, when I casually looked out the window. It was pretty dark and rainy, but I could still see the blurry silhouette of the woods turning into a dim lighted village. As I was about to turn away, I started to sweat and felt a pounding in my head. My heart felt as if I had just run a marathon 3 times and I could hear my blood rushing through my ears. My hands shook and my breathing turned uneven. My vision went all blurry. I had to get away. I did not want to be on a train while having a panic attack. I stood up and hit my knee on the table but I ignored the pain. I grabbed my book and backpack and yelled for assistance. An assistant quickly rushed over and asked if I needed anything. I told her to stop the train. “But ma’am, we don’t have a station here, we can’t stop here-” “Just stop the train. NOW! Please!” I cut her off. “Ma’am, are you feeling ok? You should probably sit down.” She offers. “STOP THE TRAIN! NOW!” I shout. She nodded to me and swiveled around and quickly rushed to the front of the train. My mouth started to feel dry and I could feel tears coming starting to form at the corners of my eyes. By this time I was shaking. I turned to the nearest compartment and grabbed the glass of water on the table. I took one big sip and looked up at the young bloke who was sitting there. My mouth felt a bit better knowing it was hydrated and I could say my words without them sounding raspy. “I am so sorry. I really needed that drink.” I grabbed my backpack and took out £2 and put it down on the table. “I’m really sorry about the drink, I know you paid for that so here’s the money. I know it was 3 pound but this is all I can find right now.” I blurted out. I could feel the train slowing down and felt nauseous. I sat down in the young blokes compartment seat and looked down. I could feel the guy’s eyes staring at the top of my head which made me feel uncomfortable.

sorry if thats too much. thank you 🙂

Thanks for stopping by, Astoria.

I’ve retired from editing, but you can join online critique groups free of charge.

Scribophile and Critique Circle are two popular sites.

Good luck with your writing, and stay safe!

Undertaking a short story/flash fiction assignment for Open University. Word count is up to 800 words. The premise is in hand, and I’ve done a plan.

Really want to do it in First POV, though I know third is easy to fall back on. Your advice is brilliant, I am just so nervous of the structure and grammar. I don’t envision that creative writing is for me, as the strain of English Lit etc scares me.

You can do this, Louise. I hope you’ll be able to use some of the advice in this post.

Good luck, and stay safe!

This is so frustrating, As I edit my work I can’t think of anything to replace my ‘I’ overuse!!!

Think less of how you control the action and more about how the action happens, period. The suggestions in this article will help.

Thanks for stopping by, Max!

Great article. Chuck Palahnuik is an expert at submerging the ‘I’, and I’m constantly perplexed about how to avoid the pitfalls you mentioned when following his advice. This has helped a great deal.

Thanks, Tom. May your muse be ever with you — and stay safe.

I get it, I just don’t know how to repair the problem. Online English class?

There’s no magic one-size-fits-all approach. You have to examine each occurrence to determine a suitable remedy. This requires time and effort; but as you edit, you become more proficient at creating solutions.

Thanks for stopping by!

Can you please give me some examples of books written in first person, without the overuse of ‘I’? My 13 year old daughter is in an Academic Excellence class and has had her eyes opened and mind blown buy how removing the ‘I’s, it makes you live the story. She has Aspergers and dyslexia and has always loved writing, it is her get away. We would be truly grateful for some guidance.

Warmest wishes Michelle Australia

Hi, Michelle. Thanks for stopping by.

The books that stand out in my mind are To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee, all The Hunger Games books by Suzanne Collins, and Ready Player One by Ernest Cline. They should keep your daughter busy for a while.

Thank you very much Kathy. I am truly grateful.

May you too keep safe.

Warmest wishes Michelle

Thank you so much. I always put I’s in my stories and it bothered me because ‘I’ use it repeatedly. That’s when ‘I’ started to notice it also want to thank you for the alternatives to making my story look as if a professional wrote it. Well I’m no professional but hopefully one day. 4 years later and came across this website. Thank you btw. (PS I was embarrassed now because I used my I’s a lot in this comment lolz so I had to fix it to make it right ) Anyways I’m forever grateful and have a good year in 2020!

Thanks for stopping by, Nora. Yes, those Is can be slippery little creatures. You’ve made the most important step by recognizing the problem.

You have a great 2020 too, and may the muses favor your writing!

Excellent, as per usual. 🙂

Thanks, Jenn!

Another excellent post, Kathy. This is exactly what I was looking for. As an added bonus, I now know what filter words are. Time for another edit on my latest WIP. (Heck – I’ve just noticed two I’s in the above comment. Oh no, there’s another two!)

Thanks, Tom. I laughed out loud as I was reading your reply. Next week I’ll be posting an open letter to book pirates. Arrgh! Three I ‘s.

Let’s see …

As my eyes scrutinized your reply, a humongous LOL burst from my lips. Next week’s blog post will feature an open letter to book pirates.

Doesn’t have the same snap, does it?

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Words to Use in an Essay: 300 Essay Words

Hannah Yang

Words to use in the essay introduction, words to use in the body of the essay, words to use in your essay conclusion, how to improve your essay writing vocabulary.

It’s not easy to write an academic essay .

Many students struggle to word their arguments in a logical and concise way.

To make matters worse, academic essays need to adhere to a certain level of formality, so we can’t always use the same word choices in essay writing that we would use in daily life.

If you’re struggling to choose the right words for your essay, don’t worry—you’ve come to the right place!

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of over 300 words and phrases to use in the introduction, body, and conclusion of your essay.

The introduction is one of the hardest parts of an essay to write.

You have only one chance to make a first impression, and you want to hook your reader. If the introduction isn’t effective, the reader might not even bother to read the rest of the essay.

That’s why it’s important to be thoughtful and deliberate with the words you choose at the beginning of your essay.

Many students use a quote in the introductory paragraph to establish credibility and set the tone for the rest of the essay.

When you’re referencing another author or speaker, try using some of these phrases:

To use the words of X

According to X

As X states

Example: To use the words of Hillary Clinton, “You cannot have maternal health without reproductive health.”

Near the end of the introduction, you should state the thesis to explain the central point of your paper.

If you’re not sure how to introduce your thesis, try using some of these phrases:

In this essay, I will…

The purpose of this essay…

This essay discusses…

In this paper, I put forward the claim that…

There are three main arguments for…

Example: In this essay, I will explain why dress codes in public schools are detrimental to students.

After you’ve stated your thesis, it’s time to start presenting the arguments you’ll use to back up that central idea.

When you’re introducing the first of a series of arguments, you can use the following words:

First and foremost

First of all

To begin with

Example: First , consider the effects that this new social security policy would have on low-income taxpayers.

All these words and phrases will help you create a more successful introduction and convince your audience to read on.

The body of your essay is where you’ll explain your core arguments and present your evidence.

It’s important to choose words and phrases for the body of your essay that will help the reader understand your position and convince them you’ve done your research.

Let’s look at some different types of words and phrases that you can use in the body of your essay, as well as some examples of what these words look like in a sentence.

Transition Words and Phrases

Transitioning from one argument to another is crucial for a good essay.

It’s important to guide your reader from one idea to the next so they don’t get lost or feel like you’re jumping around at random.

Transition phrases and linking words show your reader you’re about to move from one argument to the next, smoothing out their reading experience. They also make your writing look more professional.

The simplest transition involves moving from one idea to a separate one that supports the same overall argument. Try using these phrases when you want to introduce a second correlating idea:

Additionally

In addition

Furthermore

Another key thing to remember

In the same way

Correspondingly

Example: Additionally , public parks increase property value because home buyers prefer houses that are located close to green, open spaces.

Another type of transition involves restating. It’s often useful to restate complex ideas in simpler terms to help the reader digest them. When you’re restating an idea, you can use the following words:

In other words

To put it another way

That is to say

To put it more simply

Example: “The research showed that 53% of students surveyed expressed a mild or strong preference for more on-campus housing. In other words , over half the students wanted more dormitory options.”

Often, you’ll need to provide examples to illustrate your point more clearly for the reader. When you’re about to give an example of something you just said, you can use the following words:

For instance

To give an illustration of

To exemplify

To demonstrate

As evidence

Example: Humans have long tried to exert control over our natural environment. For instance , engineers reversed the Chicago River in 1900, causing it to permanently flow backward.

Sometimes, you’ll need to explain the impact or consequence of something you’ve just said.

When you’re drawing a conclusion from evidence you’ve presented, try using the following words:

As a result

Accordingly

As you can see

This suggests that

It follows that

It can be seen that

For this reason

For all of those reasons

Consequently

Example: “There wasn’t enough government funding to support the rest of the physics experiment. Thus , the team was forced to shut down their experiment in 1996.”

When introducing an idea that bolsters one you’ve already stated, or adds another important aspect to that same argument, you can use the following words:

What’s more

Not only…but also

Not to mention

To say nothing of

Another key point

Example: The volcanic eruption disrupted hundreds of thousands of people. Moreover , it impacted the local flora and fauna as well, causing nearly a hundred species to go extinct.

Often, you'll want to present two sides of the same argument. When you need to compare and contrast ideas, you can use the following words:

On the one hand / on the other hand

Alternatively

In contrast to

On the contrary

By contrast

In comparison

Example: On the one hand , the Black Death was undoubtedly a tragedy because it killed millions of Europeans. On the other hand , it created better living conditions for the peasants who survived.

Finally, when you’re introducing a new angle that contradicts your previous idea, you can use the following phrases:

Having said that

Differing from

In spite of

With this in mind

Provided that

Nevertheless

Nonetheless

Notwithstanding

Example: Shakespearean plays are classic works of literature that have stood the test of time. Having said that , I would argue that Shakespeare isn’t the most accessible form of literature to teach students in the twenty-first century.

Good essays include multiple types of logic. You can use a combination of the transitions above to create a strong, clear structure throughout the body of your essay.

Strong Verbs for Academic Writing

Verbs are especially important for writing clear essays. Often, you can convey a nuanced meaning simply by choosing the right verb.

You should use strong verbs that are precise and dynamic. Whenever possible, you should use an unambiguous verb, rather than a generic verb.

For example, alter and fluctuate are stronger verbs than change , because they give the reader more descriptive detail.

Here are some useful verbs that will help make your essay shine.

Verbs that show change:

Accommodate

Verbs that relate to causing or impacting something:

Verbs that show increase:

Verbs that show decrease:

Deteriorate

Verbs that relate to parts of a whole:

Comprises of

Is composed of

Constitutes

Encompasses

Incorporates

Verbs that show a negative stance:

Misconstrue

Verbs that show a positive stance:

Substantiate

Verbs that relate to drawing conclusions from evidence:

Corroborate

Demonstrate

Verbs that relate to thinking and analysis:

Contemplate

Hypothesize

Investigate

Verbs that relate to showing information in a visual format:

Useful Adjectives and Adverbs for Academic Essays

You should use adjectives and adverbs more sparingly than verbs when writing essays, since they sometimes add unnecessary fluff to sentences.

However, choosing the right adjectives and adverbs can help add detail and sophistication to your essay.

Sometimes you'll need to use an adjective to show that a finding or argument is useful and should be taken seriously. Here are some adjectives that create positive emphasis:

Significant

Other times, you'll need to use an adjective to show that a finding or argument is harmful or ineffective. Here are some adjectives that create a negative emphasis:

Controversial

Insignificant

Questionable

Unnecessary

Unrealistic

Finally, you might need to use an adverb to lend nuance to a sentence, or to express a specific degree of certainty. Here are some examples of adverbs that are often used in essays:

Comprehensively

Exhaustively

Extensively

Respectively

Surprisingly

Using these words will help you successfully convey the key points you want to express. Once you’ve nailed the body of your essay, it’s time to move on to the conclusion.

The conclusion of your paper is important for synthesizing the arguments you’ve laid out and restating your thesis.

In your concluding paragraph, try using some of these essay words:

In conclusion

To summarize

In a nutshell

Given the above

As described

All things considered

Example: In conclusion , it’s imperative that we take action to address climate change before we lose our coral reefs forever.

In addition to simply summarizing the key points from the body of your essay, you should also add some final takeaways. Give the reader your final opinion and a bit of a food for thought.

To place emphasis on a certain point or a key fact, use these essay words:

Unquestionably

Undoubtedly

Particularly

Importantly

Conclusively

It should be noted

On the whole

Example: Ada Lovelace is unquestionably a powerful role model for young girls around the world, and more of our public school curricula should include her as a historical figure.

These concluding phrases will help you finish writing your essay in a strong, confident way.

There are many useful essay words out there that we didn't include in this article, because they are specific to certain topics.

If you're writing about biology, for example, you will need to use different terminology than if you're writing about literature.

So how do you improve your vocabulary skills?

The vocabulary you use in your academic writing is a toolkit you can build up over time, as long as you take the time to learn new words.

One way to increase your vocabulary is by looking up words you don’t know when you’re reading.

Try reading more books and academic articles in the field you’re writing about and jotting down all the new words you find. You can use these words to bolster your own essays.

You can also consult a dictionary or a thesaurus. When you’re using a word you’re not confident about, researching its meaning and common synonyms can help you make sure it belongs in your essay.

Don't be afraid of using simpler words. Good essay writing boils down to choosing the best word to convey what you need to say, not the fanciest word possible.

Finally, you can use ProWritingAid’s synonym tool or essay checker to find more precise and sophisticated vocabulary. Click on weak words in your essay to find stronger alternatives.

ProWritingAid offering synonyms for great

There you have it: our compilation of the best words and phrases to use in your next essay . Good luck!

Good writing = better grades

ProWritingAid will help you improve the style, strength, and clarity of all your assignments.

Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

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How to Replace I in Essays: Alternative 3rd Person Pronouns

replacing I in essays

Learning how to write an essay without using ‘I,’ ‘We,’ or ‘You,’ and other personal languages can be challenging for students. The best writing skills recommend not to use such pronouns. This guide explores how to replace ‘I,’ ‘We,’ or ‘You’ in an essay and the methods to avoid them.

For those of us who have been able to overcome this, you will agree that there was a time when you experienced a challenge when finding alternatives to clauses such as “I will argue” or “I think.”

The good thing is that there are several methods of communicating your point and writing an essay without using ‘I’ or related personal language.

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Why Avoid Using Pronouns in Formal Writing

Before identifying the communication methods without using personal language like “I,” it is best to know why we should avoid such language while writing essays.

The most important reason for avoiding such language is because it is not suitable for formal writing such as essays. Appropriate professional English should not include any form of personal pronouns or language.

The second and equally important reason to avoid using personal language while writing an essay is to sound impersonal, functional, and objective.

In formal English, personal pronouns conflict with the idea of being impersonal, functional, and objective because they make redundant references to the writer and other people.

Personal pronouns will make an essay seem to contain only the writer’s perspectives and others they have deliberately selected. Again, they will make the work appear subjective.

Another reason to avoid personal language while coming up with an essay is to avoid sounding as if you have an urgent need to impress the reader through wording.

Personal pronouns like “you” and “I” tend to suggest something important that is away from what the writing is all about.

By continually using “I,” “we,” or “you,” you are taking the reader’s attention from the essay to other personal issues. The essay becomes all about the writer.

That being said, let’s explore how to replace “I” in an essay.

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Ways of avoiding pronouns “i,” “you,” and “we” in an essay.

You can replace the pronouns ‘I’, ‘You’, and ‘We’ by replacing them with acceptable wording, applying passive voice instead of pronouns, Using a third-person perspective, adopting an objective language, and including strong verbs and adjectives.

In our other guide, we explained the best practices to avoid using ‘you’ in essay writing and use academically sound words. Let us explore each of these strategies in detail.

1. Replacing it with an Acceptable Wording

This is a very good strategy for replacing “I” in an essay. The problem is that it is often difficult to find the right word to replace the personal pronoun. Though this is the case, “I” has some alternatives.

For example, if the verb that follows it revolves around writing and research, such as “…will present” or “…have described”, it is best to replace “I” with text-referencing nouns such as “the essay.”

If you wanted to say “I will present” or “I have described”, then the alternative will be “the essay will present,” or “as described in the essay.”

Another method of replacing “I” in an essay is using appropriate wording like “this writer” if the verb’s action is not within the text.

While this is sometimes acceptable, it is often advised to have no words here by using passive verbs or their equivalents.

A wording that may also be used but rarely suitable is “the researcher”. This alternative can only be used when your actions as a writer are completely detached from the writing.

2. Using Passive voice Instead of Pronouns

Another way to replace “I” and other personal pronouns in an essay is to use passive voice. This is achieved by transforming an active verb passive.

Though this is the case, the strategy is often difficult, and it may create sentence structures that are not acceptable in formal writing and language.

The sentences in which “I” can be successfully changed using this strategy is when an active verb describing an object is transformed into its passive form.

3. Using a Third-Person Perspective

This is a very important and applicable strategy when replacing “I” in an essay. This is where you avoid using first-person and second-person perspectives.

When referring to the subject matter, refer directly to them using the third person. For example, if you were to write, “I think regular exercise is good for mind and body”, you can replace it with “Regular exercise is good for mind and body”.

4. Use of Objective Language

Objective language is lost when a person uses informal expressions like colloquialisms, slang, contractions, and clichés. It is the reason why we discourage the use of contractions in essay writing so that you can keep things formal.

While informal language can be applicable in casual writing and speeches, it is not acceptable when writing essays. This is because you will be tempted to use a first-person perspective to convey your message.

5. Being Specific and using Strong Verbs and Adjectives

In most cases, essays that have been written using a lot of personal pronouns tend to be imprecise. When you want to avoid using “I” in your essay, try to be exact and straight to the point.

Personal pronouns tend to convey a subjective message, and it is up to the writer to explain their perspectives through writing.

Here, a writer will use a lot of “I think…” or “I believe…” to express their opinion. By doing so, the writer will end up wasting a lot of time explaining a concept.

Instead of doing that, it is best to look for appropriate verbs and adjectives to explain the points. Also, use objective language. Refer to the suggestions given by credible evidence instead of basing your arguments on what you think.

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Words to use Instead of Personal Pronouns like “You” and “I”

As noted, it is important to avoid using personal pronouns such as “You” and “I” when writing an essay.

By eliminating them or finding alternatives to them, your essay will be formal and objective. You can decide to eliminate them in a sentence.

For example, you could be having a sentence like “I think the author makes a valid point concerning capitalism.”

In this example, you can eliminate the personal language and write, “The author makes a valid point concerning capitalism.”

The second sentence goes straight to the point and is objective.

Other words to use instead of personal pronouns, like “You” and “I,” can be created when personal judgment words are avoided.

Instead, it is best to replace those words with those that refer to the evidence.

Examples of Ways to Replace Personal Pronouns

Below are examples of how personal judgment words can be replaced by words referring to the evidence.

I feel – In light of the evidence
From I think – According to the findings
I agree – It is evident from the data that
I am convinced – Considering the results
You can see that – From the results, it is evident that

Using the third-person or “it” constructions can be used to replace personal pronouns like “You” and “I.” Such words also help to reduce the word count of your essay and make it short and precise.

For example, if you write “I conclude that, “replace those words with “it could be concluded that. ” Here, “it” constructions are helping replace personal pronouns to make the sentence more objective and precise.

To be more specific, words to replace personal pronouns like “I” include “one,” the viewer,” “the author,” “the reader,” “readers,” or something similar.

However, avoid overusing those words because your essay will seem stiff and awkward. For example, if you write, “I can perceive the plot’s confusion,” you can replace “I” by writing, “Readers can perceive the plot’s confusion.”

Words that can be used instead of personal pronouns like “You” include “one,” “the viewer,” reader,” “readers,” or any other similar phrases. It is similar to words that replace first-person pronouns.

For example, if you write “you can see that the poet’s tone is serious and urgent,” you can replace “You” by writing “readers/one can see that the poet’s tone is serious and urgent.”

Words to use Instead of “My” in an Essay

Since “My” demonstrates the possessiveness of something, in this case, the contents or thoughts within an essay, it makes the writing subjective. According to experts, writing should take an objective language . To do this, it is important to replace it.

You can replace the word “My” with “the”. For example, if you write, “My final thoughts concerning the issue are”, you can write, “The final thoughts concerning the issues are”.

In this case, the article “The” makes the sentence formal and objective.

Another method is eliminating the word “My” from the sentence to make it more objective and straight to the point.

In the same example above, if you write “My final thoughts concerning the issue are”, you can write “Final thoughts concerning the issue are”.

The major difference here is that the word “my” in the first example makes it subjective, and eliminating it from the sentence makes it sound formal and objective.

Final Advice

Therefore, when writing an essay, it is important to avoid personal pronouns like “You”, “I,” and “My.” Not all papers use third-person language. Different types of essays are formatted differently, a 5-paragraph essay is different from a 4-page paper , but all use third-person tones.

This is because an essay should be written in formal language, and using personal pronouns makes it appear and sound informal. Therefore, writing an essay without using ‘I’ is good.

Formal language makes your essay sound objective and precise. However, do not remove the first-person language when writing personal experiences in an essay or a paper. This is because it is acceptable and formal that way.

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The Writing Center • University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Should I Use “I”?

What this handout is about.

This handout is about determining when to use first person pronouns (“I”, “we,” “me,” “us,” “my,” and “our”) and personal experience in academic writing. “First person” and “personal experience” might sound like two ways of saying the same thing, but first person and personal experience can work in very different ways in your writing. You might choose to use “I” but not make any reference to your individual experiences in a particular paper. Or you might include a brief description of an experience that could help illustrate a point you’re making without ever using the word “I.” So whether or not you should use first person and personal experience are really two separate questions, both of which this handout addresses. It also offers some alternatives if you decide that either “I” or personal experience isn’t appropriate for your project. If you’ve decided that you do want to use one of them, this handout offers some ideas about how to do so effectively, because in many cases using one or the other might strengthen your writing.

Expectations about academic writing

Students often arrive at college with strict lists of writing rules in mind. Often these are rather strict lists of absolutes, including rules both stated and unstated:

Each essay should have exactly five paragraphs.
Don’t begin a sentence with “and” or “because.”
Never include personal opinion.
Never use “I” in essays.

We get these ideas primarily from teachers and other students. Often these ideas are derived from good advice but have been turned into unnecessarily strict rules in our minds. The problem is that overly strict rules about writing can prevent us, as writers, from being flexible enough to learn to adapt to the writing styles of different fields, ranging from the sciences to the humanities, and different kinds of writing projects, ranging from reviews to research.

So when it suits your purpose as a scholar, you will probably need to break some of the old rules, particularly the rules that prohibit first person pronouns and personal experience. Although there are certainly some instructors who think that these rules should be followed (so it is a good idea to ask directly), many instructors in all kinds of fields are finding reason to depart from these rules. Avoiding “I” can lead to awkwardness and vagueness, whereas using it in your writing can improve style and clarity. Using personal experience, when relevant, can add concreteness and even authority to writing that might otherwise be vague and impersonal. Because college writing situations vary widely in terms of stylistic conventions, tone, audience, and purpose, the trick is deciphering the conventions of your writing context and determining how your purpose and audience affect the way you write. The rest of this handout is devoted to strategies for figuring out when to use “I” and personal experience.

Effective uses of “I”:

In many cases, using the first person pronoun can improve your writing, by offering the following benefits:

Assertiveness: In some cases you might wish to emphasize agency (who is doing what), as for instance if you need to point out how valuable your particular project is to an academic discipline or to claim your unique perspective or argument.
Clarity: Because trying to avoid the first person can lead to awkward constructions and vagueness, using the first person can improve your writing style.
Positioning yourself in the essay: In some projects, you need to explain how your research or ideas build on or depart from the work of others, in which case you’ll need to say “I,” “we,” “my,” or “our”; if you wish to claim some kind of authority on the topic, first person may help you do so.

Deciding whether “I” will help your style

Here is an example of how using the first person can make the writing clearer and more assertive:

Original example:

In studying American popular culture of the 1980s, the question of to what degree materialism was a major characteristic of the cultural milieu was explored.

Better example using first person:

In our study of American popular culture of the 1980s, we explored the degree to which materialism characterized the cultural milieu.

The original example sounds less emphatic and direct than the revised version; using “I” allows the writers to avoid the convoluted construction of the original and clarifies who did what.

Here is an example in which alternatives to the first person would be more appropriate:

As I observed the communication styles of first-year Carolina women, I noticed frequent use of non-verbal cues.

Better example:

A study of the communication styles of first-year Carolina women revealed frequent use of non-verbal cues.

In the original example, using the first person grounds the experience heavily in the writer’s subjective, individual perspective, but the writer’s purpose is to describe a phenomenon that is in fact objective or independent of that perspective. Avoiding the first person here creates the desired impression of an observed phenomenon that could be reproduced and also creates a stronger, clearer statement.

Here’s another example in which an alternative to first person works better:

As I was reading this study of medieval village life, I noticed that social class tended to be clearly defined.

This study of medieval village life reveals that social class tended to be clearly defined.

Although you may run across instructors who find the casual style of the original example refreshing, they are probably rare. The revised version sounds more academic and renders the statement more assertive and direct.

Here’s a final example:

I think that Aristotle’s ethical arguments are logical and readily applicable to contemporary cases, or at least it seems that way to me.

Better example

Aristotle’s ethical arguments are logical and readily applicable to contemporary cases.

In this example, there is no real need to announce that that statement about Aristotle is your thought; this is your paper, so readers will assume that the ideas in it are yours.

Determining whether to use “I” according to the conventions of the academic field

Which fields allow “I”?

The rules for this are changing, so it’s always best to ask your instructor if you’re not sure about using first person. But here are some general guidelines.

Sciences: In the past, scientific writers avoided the use of “I” because scientists often view the first person as interfering with the impression of objectivity and impersonality they are seeking to create. But conventions seem to be changing in some cases—for instance, when a scientific writer is describing a project she is working on or positioning that project within the existing research on the topic. Check with your science instructor to find out whether it’s o.k. to use “I” in their class.

Social Sciences: Some social scientists try to avoid “I” for the same reasons that other scientists do. But first person is becoming more commonly accepted, especially when the writer is describing their project or perspective.

Humanities: Ask your instructor whether you should use “I.” The purpose of writing in the humanities is generally to offer your own analysis of language, ideas, or a work of art. Writers in these fields tend to value assertiveness and to emphasize agency (who’s doing what), so the first person is often—but not always—appropriate. Sometimes writers use the first person in a less effective way, preceding an assertion with “I think,” “I feel,” or “I believe” as if such a phrase could replace a real defense of an argument. While your audience is generally interested in your perspective in the humanities fields, readers do expect you to fully argue, support, and illustrate your assertions. Personal belief or opinion is generally not sufficient in itself; you will need evidence of some kind to convince your reader.

Other writing situations: If you’re writing a speech, use of the first and even the second person (“you”) is generally encouraged because these personal pronouns can create a desirable sense of connection between speaker and listener and can contribute to the sense that the speaker is sincere and involved in the issue. If you’re writing a resume, though, avoid the first person; describe your experience, education, and skills without using a personal pronoun (for example, under “Experience” you might write “Volunteered as a peer counselor”).

A note on the second person “you”:

In situations where your intention is to sound conversational and friendly because it suits your purpose, as it does in this handout intended to offer helpful advice, or in a letter or speech, “you” might help to create just the sense of familiarity you’re after. But in most academic writing situations, “you” sounds overly conversational, as for instance in a claim like “when you read the poem ‘The Wasteland,’ you feel a sense of emptiness.” In this case, the “you” sounds overly conversational. The statement would read better as “The poem ‘The Wasteland’ creates a sense of emptiness.” Academic writers almost always use alternatives to the second person pronoun, such as “one,” “the reader,” or “people.”

Personal experience in academic writing

The question of whether personal experience has a place in academic writing depends on context and purpose. In papers that seek to analyze an objective principle or data as in science papers, or in papers for a field that explicitly tries to minimize the effect of the researcher’s presence such as anthropology, personal experience would probably distract from your purpose. But sometimes you might need to explicitly situate your position as researcher in relation to your subject of study. Or if your purpose is to present your individual response to a work of art, to offer examples of how an idea or theory might apply to life, or to use experience as evidence or a demonstration of an abstract principle, personal experience might have a legitimate role to play in your academic writing. Using personal experience effectively usually means keeping it in the service of your argument, as opposed to letting it become an end in itself or take over the paper.

It’s also usually best to keep your real or hypothetical stories brief, but they can strengthen arguments in need of concrete illustrations or even just a little more vitality.

Here are some examples of effective ways to incorporate personal experience in academic writing:

Anecdotes: In some cases, brief examples of experiences you’ve had or witnessed may serve as useful illustrations of a point you’re arguing or a theory you’re evaluating. For instance, in philosophical arguments, writers often use a real or hypothetical situation to illustrate abstract ideas and principles.
References to your own experience can explain your interest in an issue or even help to establish your authority on a topic.
Some specific writing situations, such as application essays, explicitly call for discussion of personal experience.

Here are some suggestions about including personal experience in writing for specific fields:

Philosophy: In philosophical writing, your purpose is generally to reconstruct or evaluate an existing argument, and/or to generate your own. Sometimes, doing this effectively may involve offering a hypothetical example or an illustration. In these cases, you might find that inventing or recounting a scenario that you’ve experienced or witnessed could help demonstrate your point. Personal experience can play a very useful role in your philosophy papers, as long as you always explain to the reader how the experience is related to your argument. (See our handout on writing in philosophy for more information.)

Religion: Religion courses might seem like a place where personal experience would be welcomed. But most religion courses take a cultural, historical, or textual approach, and these generally require objectivity and impersonality. So although you probably have very strong beliefs or powerful experiences in this area that might motivate your interest in the field, they shouldn’t supplant scholarly analysis. But ask your instructor, as it is possible that they are interested in your personal experiences with religion, especially in less formal assignments such as response papers. (See our handout on writing in religious studies for more information.)

Literature, Music, Fine Arts, and Film: Writing projects in these fields can sometimes benefit from the inclusion of personal experience, as long as it isn’t tangential. For instance, your annoyance over your roommate’s habits might not add much to an analysis of “Citizen Kane.” However, if you’re writing about Ridley Scott’s treatment of relationships between women in the movie “Thelma and Louise,” some reference your own observations about these relationships might be relevant if it adds to your analysis of the film. Personal experience can be especially appropriate in a response paper, or in any kind of assignment that asks about your experience of the work as a reader or viewer. Some film and literature scholars are interested in how a film or literary text is received by different audiences, so a discussion of how a particular viewer or reader experiences or identifies with the piece would probably be appropriate. (See our handouts on writing about fiction , art history , and drama for more information.)

Women’s Studies: Women’s Studies classes tend to be taught from a feminist perspective, a perspective which is generally interested in the ways in which individuals experience gender roles. So personal experience can often serve as evidence for your analytical and argumentative papers in this field. This field is also one in which you might be asked to keep a journal, a kind of writing that requires you to apply theoretical concepts to your experiences.

History: If you’re analyzing a historical period or issue, personal experience is less likely to advance your purpose of objectivity. However, some kinds of historical scholarship do involve the exploration of personal histories. So although you might not be referencing your own experience, you might very well be discussing other people’s experiences as illustrations of their historical contexts. (See our handout on writing in history for more information.)

Sciences: Because the primary purpose is to study data and fixed principles in an objective way, personal experience is less likely to have a place in this kind of writing. Often, as in a lab report, your goal is to describe observations in such a way that a reader could duplicate the experiment, so the less extra information, the better. Of course, if you’re working in the social sciences, case studies—accounts of the personal experiences of other people—are a crucial part of your scholarship. (See our handout on writing in the sciences for more information.)

You may reproduce it for non-commercial use if you use the entire handout and attribute the source: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

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19 Other Ways to Say “I Believe” in an Essay
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19 Other Ways to Say "I Believe" in an Essay
It's okay to use "I believe" in an essay if the person grading your paper permits you to use personal pronouns. You can say "one might argue" if you want to use a more formal alternative in the third person. "It appears" is another good option that removes the personal pronoun "I.". Don't go anywhere!
20 Other Ways to Say "I Believe" in an Essay
Diversifying your vocabulary can enhance your expression and engage your readers more effectively. Below, we explore 20 alternative phrases to convey the same sentiment as "I believe," along with scenario examples for . List of Other Ways to Say "I Believe" in an Essay
11 Other Ways To Say "I Think" And "I Believe" In An Essay
There are many different ways to express that what you're saying is an opinion or a conclusion you have drawn using stronger wording than "I think" and "I believe.". Here are some options: The preferred option is "in my opinion." "In my opinion" is clear and direct, and sounds more formal than "I believe" and "I think ...
12 Other Ways to Say "I Believe" in an Essay
Phrase. Usage. I maintain that. This phrase is used when you want to emphasize your strong belief in a statement. I am of the opinion that. This is a formal way of saying "I believe," often used in academic writing. I am convinced that. Use this phrase when you want to express a strong belief or conviction.
10 Other Ways to Say "I Believe" in an Essay
From where I stand, this is the best course of action. Therefore, I think we should capitalize on it. 2. My Take Is. For a more direct alternative, you can write "my take is.". It's another way to say "I believe" in an essay. Saying you have a "take" suggests you believe something that others might not.
10 Other Ways to Say "I Believe" in an Essay
Here are ten professional alternatives to "I believe" that can enhance your essay writing: 1. In my view. Using "In my view" in your essay suggests that you're presenting a personal perspective, but with a tone that's a bit more formal and detached than "I believe.". It hints that you've given the matter some thought.
15 Other Ways to Say "I Believe" in an Essay
James Wilson. Additional Note: This phrase is suitable for asserting a stance in situations requiring a clear and decisive expression of belief. 8. In My View. Similar to "in my opinion," "in my view" emphasizes a personal perspective while maintaining a more formal tone. Scenario: Team Decision-Making Meeting.
12 Fresh Synonyms for 'I Believe' in an Essay: Boost Your Vocabulary
To help you elevate your essays, we've compiled a list of 12 alternative expressions for "I Believe.". These phrases will add flavor and depth to your writing, making your essays stand out: In my opinion, - This classic phrase adds a personal touch to your beliefs. From my perspective, - Emphasizes your unique viewpoint.
What Is Another Way to Say "I Believe"?
3. From My Perspective. From my perspective is another way to say I believe in an essay when you want to clearly and unequivocally state your opinions or beliefs about a topic. This phrase may be a tad risky since it uses the personal pronoun "my.". However, it would be perfectly suitable to use this phrase if you have discussed your ...
Other-Ways-To-Say-I-Believe-In-An-Essay
Replace the generic "I believe" with declarations such as "I pledge allegiance to," "I stand unwaveringly by," or "I am steadfast in my allegiance to." By articulating your commitment with clarity and conviction, you invite readers to align themselves with your perspective and join you in the journey of exploration and discovery.
20 Other Ways to Say 'I Believe'
In my opinion. One of the most commonly used alternatives to 'I believe' is 'in my opinion.'. This phrase is straightforward and indicates that you are about to express a personal viewpoint. Here's an example: In my opinion, art is an essential part of human existence.
I Believe synonyms
Another way to say I Believe? Synonyms for I Believe (other words and phrases for I Believe). Synonyms for I believe. 910 other terms for i believe- words and phrases with similar meaning. Lists. synonyms. antonyms. definitions. sentences. thesaurus. words. phrases. idioms. Parts of speech. verbs. prepositions. adverbs. Tags. opinion ...
What is another word for I believe
Synonyms for I believe include I think that, I deem, I opine, I perceive, I reckon, I suppose, I believe that, I consider that, I reckon that and I guess. Find more similar words at wordhippo.com!
Still Saying "I Think"? Try One of These Phrases Instead
3. I'm guessing. "I'm guessing" can literally mean "I am taking a guess.". However, "I'm guessing" can also be a way to say "I think" with a little more certainty. "I'm guessing" basically means "Based on my observations, I think … .". From the look on his face, I'm guessing he failed the interview.
40 Useful Words and Phrases for Top-Notch Essays
4. That is to say. Usage: "That is" and "that is to say" can be used to add further detail to your explanation, or to be more precise. Example: "Whales are mammals. That is to say, they must breathe air.". 5. To that end. Usage: Use "to that end" or "to this end" in a similar way to "in order to" or "so".
Transition Words & Phrases
While the words "also," "and," and "so" are used in academic writing, they are considered too informal when used at the start of a sentence. Also, a second round of testing was carried out. To fix this issue, we can either move the transition word to a different point in the sentence or use a more formal alternative.
50 Other Ways to Say "I Think" in English (Formal, Informal)
It is my belief…. It seems to me/It appears to me. To my way of thinking/In my way of thinking. I honestly think that/ I honestly believe that…. I am feeling that/I feel that - This is a more personal phrase which moves from thoughts and takes them to a more emotional level.
30+ Ways to Avoid Repetition of "I" in First-Person Writing
Word count is up to 800 words. The premise is in hand, and I've done a plan. Really want to do it in First POV, though I know third is easy to fall back on. Your advice is brilliant, I am just so nervous of the structure and grammar. I don't envision that creative writing is for me, as the strain of English Lit etc scares me.
Words to Use in an Essay: 300 Essay Words
If you're struggling to choose the right words for your essay, don't worry—you've come to the right place! In this article, we've compiled a list of over 300 words and phrases to use in the introduction, body, and conclusion of your essay. Contents: Words to Use in the Essay Introduction. Words to Use in the Body of the Essay.
How to Replace I in Essays: Alternative 3rd Person Pronouns
A wording that may also be used but rarely suitable is "the researcher". This alternative can only be used when your actions as a writer are completely detached from the writing. 2. Using Passive voice Instead of Pronouns. Another way to replace "I" and other personal pronouns in an essay is to use passive voice.
Words to replace personal pronouns in an essay
Using the third-person or "it" constructions can be used to replace personal pronouns like "You" and "I". Such words also help to reduce the word count of your essay and make it short and precise. For example, if you are writing "I conclude that", replace those words with "it could be concluded that".
Should I Use "I"?
Each essay should have exactly five paragraphs. Don't begin a sentence with "and" or "because.". Never include personal opinion. Never use "I" in essays. We get these ideas primarily from teachers and other students. Often these ideas are derived from good advice but have been turned into unnecessarily strict rules in our minds.

19 Other Ways to Say “I Believe” in an Essay

Other Ways to Say “I Believe”

KEY TAKEAWAYS

One Might Argue

Can I Use “I Believe” in an Essay?

20 Other Ways to Say “I Believe” in an Essay

List of Other Ways to Say “I Believe” in an Essay

In My Opinion

As I See It

From My Perspective

It Is My Conviction That

To My Understanding

As Far As I’m Concerned

In My Estimation

From My Standpoint

It Seems to Me That

As I Understand It

In My Judgment

In My Experience

It’s My Belief That

From My Vantage Point

As I Perceive It

In My Assessment

To My Way of Thinking

As I Interpret It

Pros and Cons of Diversifying Expression

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It Could Be Argued

Many Believe

This Suggests

It Can Be Concluded

It Makes Sense

This Proves

This Supports The Idea

X Makes A Strong Case

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10 Other Ways to Say “I Believe” in an Essay

Can You Use “I Believe” in an Essay?

What to Say Instead of “I Believe” in an Essay

1. From Where I Stand

2. My Take Is

3. In My Opinion

4. It Seems to Me

5. I’m of the Opinion That

6. As Far as I Know

7. My Position Is

8. In My View

9. It Appears That

10. From My Perspective

10 Other Ways to Say “I Believe” in an Essay

Is It Professional to Say “I Believe”?

10 Other Ways to Say “I Believe” in an Essay

1. In my view

2. I am convinced that

3. I contend that

4. It is my contention

5. I assert that

6. My perspective is

7. It is my belief