other words for in my opinion essay

7 Alternative Ways to Say “In my opinion”

By: Author Marcel Iseli

Posted on Last updated: April 10, 2023

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Variety is the spice of life.

Have you ever tried to read an article where the writer kept using the same word over and over and over again?

It can be so mind-numbing that you just lose focus and drift off into subspace.

This is why any writer worth their salt can say the same thing but in different ways. In their arsenal, they have many alternatives for a single phrase, and each one pops up at the right time.

For instance, when stating a personal viewpoint, a writer may have to qualify it first. They may say, “In my opinion, the director’s latest movie doesn’t compare to the one that came before.”

However, are there other ways a writer can state their personal opinion?

Absolutely, here are 7 good alternatives!

1. To my mind

This is one of my favorites, so I put it at the top of the list.

What can I say? I have always been one for nepotism.

“To my mind” is a way of announcing that what is about to follow mostly pertains to your mind. In other words, it is your opinion.

It is wordier than “in my opinion,” so it is a bit more formal. Nevertheless, there is still a hint of informality about it.

After all, most formal writing tries to remove all the personal elements out of the equation and to focus on objective facts. So, the more you inject yourself and your viewpoints into your writing, the more casual you make it.

With that said, “to my mind” works perfectly in situations where you want to straddle the line between informality and formality. This applies if you’re writing a college paper or sending an e-mail to your boss.

2. As I see it

We all see things in different ways, which is why we each have our own viewpoints and our own perspectives.

In fact, what you see is usually shaped by years of belief, decades of social conditioning, and a lifetime of values.

For instance, let’s say you are walking down the street, and you observe a mother spanking her child. Whether you are seeing a mother disciplining her child or are witnessing child abuse entirely depends on where you are coming from.

So, the next time you want to share your opinion with someone, feel free to tell them how you see things.

Obviously, this expression is pretty informal. In fact, anytime you use the personal pronoun “I” and inject yourself into the conversation, you are probably being informal.

Remember. Formal writing is usually impersonal, objective, and straightforward.

One of the most famous philosophical statements was uttered by Rene Descartes, and it said, “Cogito, ergo sum.”

The above statement is in Latin, and when translated to English, it reads as “I think, therefore I am.”

The idea was that Descartes was trying to highlight that the only thing that gave him any assurance of his humanity was his ability to think. In fact, the only reason he could know that he existed for sure was that he could think and had his own thoughts.

The bottom line is that your thoughts have power. They are an integral piece of you.

When you are telling someone what you think, you are sharing a part of you.

Needless to say, you can’t really use “I think” in the middle of a formal letter or a Ph.D. dissertation. It’s too subjective and informal and will come across as unprofessional and biased.

In writing, you should only use it with friends and colleagues.

I might have not mentioned this earlier, but now is a good time as any. You can always afford to be more informal in speech than in writing. Hence, what might be inappropriate in a formal letter might be fine in a business meeting.

In other words, you can tell your boss, “I think this might not be the best course of action.”

And, if you’re in the middle of a sit down with the mayor, you can say, “As I see it, the downtown renovations had a large impact on the community.”

4. I believe

A similar alternative to “I think” is “I believe.” It might have the same connotation, but it shows that the expressed opinion is more closely held.

It’s not just a thought. It’s a belief. So, you don’t want to use it for something benign.

For instance, while it is completely fine to say, “I think that new suit looks good on you,” it would be very strange and confounding to say, “I believe that new suit looks good on you.”

That said, both expressions are equally informal.

5. It seems to me

This is another one of my favorites, and I use it a lot in my personal life.

It is a bit more formal than most of the expressions that have come so far, and a big reason is that it takes away the personal element of the situation.

And, if you want to make it even more formal, you can remove the “to me,” leaving you with “it seems.”

Fine, but what makes this one of my favorites?

Simple. It is excellent to use in personal negotiations and everyday interactions.

Let’s say you are having a discussion with your friend, and you want to recap everything they’ve just said to make sure that you’ve got their point.

You could say, “It seems to me that you are bothered by so and so.” Now, things can go one of two ways.

Your friend might agree that you are on the money, which is just perfect for the both of you and brings you two one step closer to an agreement.

Or, your friend might disagree and tell you that you are completely off base, in which case you can reply with, “I didn’t say that’s how things are. I just said that’s how they seemed to me. And, I want to clear this misunderstanding before moving on.”

See how versatile the expression can be?

6. One can postulate

On the informal-formal spectrum, this one lies firmly in the formal part. In fact, if there were something past formal and onto super-formal, this expression would make it there.

Just take a look at that beauty.

There are no personal pronouns. It is wordy as hell. And, the whole thing is qualified by the modal verb “can.”

If God had imagined formal expressions, this is what they would look like.

Ergo, one can not use this expression with friends or colleagues unless one is being sarcastic in some sense.

For example, if you tell your friends, “one can postulate that the new sanctions will damage the economies of both countries,” you will probably be laughed out of the room, even if you are talking about a hefty topic like politics and economics.

On the flip side, this expression is perfect to be used in your Ph.D. dissertation or in an academic paper you are handing into a scientific journal. It is the kind of phrase that will get a professor’s eyes widening in anticipation of the postulate that is sure to follow.

7. If you ask me

Having reached the edge of formality, I think it’s only right that we finish this article by looking at a phrase that rests firmly on informal soil.

After all, when giving your boss your opinion, you don’t want to start with, “if you ask me.” You can only do this if you are close to your boss, and the two of you are talking in private. However, it is still inappropriate to use in public with a boss you are close to.

And, bear in mind that we are talking about using it in speech.

It goes without saying that “if you ask me” has no place in any form of formal writing whatsoever. Not even a memo.

All that said, it is an excellent option to use with close friends and colleagues.

A very similar alternative is “if you want my opinion.”

Hey fellow Linguaholics! It’s me, Marcel. I am the proud owner of linguaholic.com. Languages have always been my passion and I have studied Linguistics, Computational Linguistics and Sinology at the University of Zurich. It is my utmost pleasure to share with all of you guys what I know about languages and linguistics in general.

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20 Formal Ways to Say “In My Opinion”

Expressing one’s viewpoint is a crucial aspect of effective communication, especially when conveying opinions in a formal setting.

 While “ In my opinion ” is a commonly used phrase, diversifying your vocabulary can add sophistication to your language. Here are 20 formal ways to articulate your perspective:

List of Formal Ways to Say “In My Opinion”

• In my estimation,
• In my assessment,
• In my viewpoint,
• From my vantage point,
• To my way of thinking,
• As I perceive it,
• In my judgment,
• In my reckoning,
• In my observation,
• As I see it,
• In my analysis,
• In my appraisal,
• In my understanding,
• To my mind,
• From my standpoint,
• In my consideration,
• As I discern it,
• From my angle,
• According to my belief,
• In my thought.

From My Perspective

When writing a professional email seeking feedback on a project, it’s essential to present your thoughts respectfully.

Dear Royle,

I trust this email finds you well. From my perspective , the recent developments in our project indicate a need for closer attention to detail.

Best regards, Oscar

Additional tip: When using “ From my perspective ,” ensure clarity by providing supporting evidence or rationale for your viewpoint.

I Am of the Opinion

In a boardroom discussion about potential market strategies, asserting your viewpoint politely can foster constructive dialogue.

I am of the opinion that diversifying our marketing channels would yield favorable results in reaching our target audience more effectively.

Warm regards, Oscar

Additional tip: When using “ I am of the opinion ,” maintain a diplomatic tone to encourage open discussion without imposing your views.

From Where I Stand

When offering insights during a project review meeting, it’s crucial to express your perspective with confidence.

Dear Colleagues,

From where I stand , prioritizing customer feedback in the next phase of development would enhance the user experience significantly.

Best, Oscar

Additional tip: Use “ From where I stand ” to convey conviction in your viewpoint, emphasizing your position within the context of the discussion.

It’s My Belief

In a formal report discussing potential budget allocations, presenting your stance with clarity is paramount.

Dear Finance Committee,

It’s my belief that allocating resources to employee training programs will yield long-term benefits for the company’s growth and innovation.

Kind regards, Oscar

Additional tip: When using “ It’s my belief ,” reinforce your assertion with supporting data or precedents for added credibility.

In My Honest View

During a team brainstorming session, expressing your perspective candidly can encourage constructive dialogue.

Dear Teammates,

In my honest view , exploring alternative solutions to our current challenge may lead to a more innovative approach.

Additional tip: Use “ In my honest view ” to convey sincerity and openness, fostering an environment conducive to collaboration and idea-sharing.

From My Knowledge

In a formal presentation to stakeholders, asserting your viewpoint based on expertise can instill confidence in your recommendations.

Dear Stakeholders,

From my knowledge , implementing data-driven decision-making processes will enhance efficiency and mitigate risks.

Additional tip: When using “ From my knowledge ,” be prepared to provide relevant evidence or examples to substantiate your claims.

In a written proposal for organizational restructuring, articulating your perspective with conviction can inspire confidence in your leadership.

Dear Board of Directors,

I believe streamlining our organizational structure will optimize resource allocation and improve operational efficiency.

Sincerely, Oscar

Additional tip: Use “ I believe ” to express confidence in your viewpoint while acknowledging the potential for alternative perspectives.

It Seems to Me

During a team meeting to discuss project timelines, offering your perspective with humility can foster collaboration.

It seems to me that adjusting our project timeline to accommodate unforeseen challenges would ensure successful project delivery.

Additional tip: When using “ It seems to me ,” invite input from others to encourage a collaborative approach to problem-solving.

As I See It

In a formal email to upper management regarding departmental restructuring, presenting your viewpoint with clarity is essential.

Dear Executives,

As I see it , restructuring our departmental hierarchy will optimize workflow and enhance communication channels.

Additional tip: When using “ As I see it ,” provide a concise overview of the rationale behind your viewpoint for clarity and brevity.

Read More: Formal Synonyms for “Did You Know”

In My Assessment

When presenting a proposal for a new project to senior management, articulating your assessment with confidence can garner support for your ideas.

Dear Senior Leadership,

In my assessment , pursuing the expansion into new markets aligns with our long-term growth objectives and presents significant opportunities for revenue diversification.

Respectfully, Oscar

Additional tip: Use “ In my assessment ” to convey a thorough evaluation of the situation, highlighting key factors that informed your judgment.

In My Viewpoint

During a team meeting to discuss product development strategies, offering your viewpoint with clarity can guide decision-making processes.

In my viewpoint , prioritizing customer-centric design principles will differentiate our product offerings in the market and drive customer loyalty.

Additional tip: When using “ In my viewpoint ,” focus on presenting your perspective objectively while acknowledging the potential for alternative viewpoints.

From My Vantage Point

In a formal presentation to investors, articulating your insights from a strategic standpoint can instill confidence in your business strategy.

Dear Investors,

From my vantage point , investing in research and development will position us as industry leaders and drive sustainable growth in the long term.

Additional tip: Use “ From my vantage point ” to emphasize the strategic perspective from which you’re presenting your insights, highlighting your broader vision for the organization.

To My Way of Thinking

When providing feedback on a colleague’s proposal, expressing your thoughts with tact and consideration is essential.

Dear [Colleague’s Name],

To my way of thinking , incorporating user feedback early in the design process will result in a more user-friendly product that meets market demands effectively.

Additional tip: When using “ To my way of thinking ,” focus on constructive criticism and suggest alternative approaches to enhance the proposal.

As I Perceive It

During a client meeting to discuss project deliverables, articulating your perception of the client’s needs can strengthen the client relationship.

Dear [Client’s Name],

As I perceive it , prioritizing timely communication and responsiveness will ensure alignment with your project objectives and expectations.

Additional tip: Use “ As I perceive it ” to demonstrate your understanding of the client’s perspective, fostering trust and collaboration.

In My Judgment

When providing recommendations for process improvements, presenting your judgment with confidence can inspire trust in your leadership.

Dear Team Members,

In my judgment , implementing agile methodologies will streamline our workflow and enhance our ability to adapt to changing market dynamics.

Additional tip: When using “ In my judgment ,” be prepared to provide rationale or evidence to support your assessment and decision-making process.

In My Reckoning

During a project status update meeting, offering your assessment of progress with precision can ensure transparency and accountability.

Dear Project Team,

In my reckoning , we are on track to meet our project milestones, but addressing resource constraints will be crucial to maintaining momentum.

Additional tip: Use “ In my reckoning ” to convey a sense of accountability and ownership of the situation, encouraging proactive problem-solving.

In My Observation

When providing feedback on a draft document, offering your observations with clarity and specificity can facilitate revisions effectively.

Dear [Author’s Name],

In my observation , the inclusion of relevant case studies would strengthen the argument and provide valuable context for readers.

Additional tip: When using “ In my observation ,” focus on providing actionable feedback and suggestions for improvement to enhance the quality of the work.

During a team brainstorming session, articulating your perspective with confidence can inspire innovative thinking and collaboration.

As I see it , exploring interdisciplinary collaborations will enrich our research initiatives and lead to groundbreaking discoveries.

Additional tip: Use “ As I see it ” to express your viewpoint assertively while remaining open to alternative ideas and perspectives.

In My Analysis

When presenting findings from a market research study, articulating your analysis with precision can inform strategic decision-making.

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

In my analysis , the emerging trends indicate a growing demand for sustainable products, presenting a significant opportunity for market expansion.

Additional tip: When using “ In my analysis ,” provide a concise summary of your findings and highlight key insights that are relevant to the recipient’s interests or objectives.

In My Appraisal

During a performance review discussion, offering your assessment of an employee’s strengths and areas for improvement with tact and empathy is essential.

Dear [Employee’s Name],

In my appraisal , your strong work ethic and dedication to continuous improvement have been instrumental to the team’s success.

Additional tip: When using “ In my appraisal ,” provide specific examples and actionable feedback to support your assessment and encourage professional growth.

Pros and Cons

In any discussion or decision-making process, it’s essential to consider both the advantages and disadvantages of different viewpoints. Let’s delve into the pros and cons of using formal language to express opinions:

• Enhances clarity and precision in communication.
• Conveys professionalism and respect for the audience.
• Encourages critical thinking and constructive dialogue.
• Adds variety and sophistication to language use.
• May come across as overly formal in casual or informal settings.
• Requires careful consideration of audience and context to avoid sounding pompous or condescending.
• Can sometimes obscure the speaker’s true intentions or emotions behind the language.

Additional Tips:

• Maintain Diplomacy: When expressing opinions formally, maintain a diplomatic tone to encourage open dialogue and respect diverse perspectives.
• Provide Rationale: Support your viewpoints with evidence, data, or logical reasoning to enhance credibility and persuasiveness.
• Invite Feedback: Encourage feedback and discussion by inviting others to share their perspectives, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment.
• Adapt to Audience: Consider the preferences and expectations of your audience when selecting formal language to ensure effective communication.
• Practice Empathy: Consider how your words may be received by others and strive to communicate with empathy and understanding.

Diversifying your vocabulary to express opinions formally can elevate your communication skills and foster constructive dialogue in various professional settings. By incorporating these formal phrases into your language repertoire and adhering to the additional tips provided, you can effectively convey your viewpoints with clarity, professionalism, and respect for others’ perspectives.

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.

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10 Other Ways to Say “In My Opinion”

Communicating effectively in a professional setting often involves sharing your thoughts and opinions. However, repeating the phrase “in my opinion” can become redundant and may not always fit the tone you’re aiming for.

This article lists ten alternative phrases that can be used in workplace emails to express your viewpoints in a more varied and engaging way. Each alternative is explained in detail, along with specific examples of how to use them in your messages.

Is It Formal to Say “In My Opinion”?

The phrase “in my opinion” can be seen as both professional and polite , but it’s often considered more informal than other options available. In professional settings, especially in written communications like reports or presentations, we recommend considering more formal alternatives. However, “in my opinion” is a great choice for situations where you need to express a personal viewpoint while maintaining courtesy.

This phrase works well in emails, meetings, or discussions where you want to firmly state your perspective without appearing too authoritative. It’s suitable for conversations with colleagues, in team meetings, or semi-formal email correspondence.

Email example:

Now, let’s talk about the pros and cons of using “in my opinion.”

• It clearly expresses that a statement is your personal viewpoint.
• Helps to soften statements, making them appear less assertive or aggressive.
• Can make the tone of your message seem more approachable.
• May be viewed as unnecessary in contexts where your role implies it’s your opinion.
• Can sound less authoritative, which might not be suitable in certain formal or professional settings.
• In written communications, overuse can clutter the message and dilute its impact.

There might be times when someone wants to use an alternative phrase instead of “in my opinion.” This could be due to a desire for a more formal tone or to avoid repetition. Exploring synonyms or alternatives can be a way to tailor your language more closely to your audience or the situation at hand.

10 Other Ways to Say “In My Opinion”

Finding the right words to express your thoughts can make your messages more effective. Here are ten alternatives to “in my opinion” that are perfect for a workplace email:

• From my perspective
• As I see it
• It seems to me
• Personally speaking

1. I believe

Compared to “in my opinion,” “I believe” conveys a similar level of personal conviction but sounds a bit stronger. It’s a great synonym that adds a touch of confidence to your statement without coming off as too aggressive. This alternative is polite yet professional , making it a solid choice for a range of communications, from emails to meetings.

This phrase works well in both written and verbal exchanges, particularly when you want to assert your thoughts without overpowering the conversation. It’s suited for dialogues with peers or presentations to management, where a balanced blend of assertiveness and professionalism is needed.

2. From my perspective

“From my perspective” shifts the focus slightly, emphasizing that the viewpoint is yours alone, which can make it seem more subjective. As such, it’s a polite and professional way to present your thoughts, particularly when you’re aiming to underscore that you understand others might see things differently. This alternative strikes a nice balance between personal opinion and openness to dialogue.

Great for emails and meetings where diverse viewpoints are being shared, this phrase helps to frame your contributions as just one part of a larger conversation. It’s especially effective in collaborative settings or when communicating with higher-ups who appreciate a humble approach.

3. To my mind

“To my mind” is another effective synonym that’s akin to “in my opinion.” It suggests a thoughtful consideration of the topic at hand. While still informal, this choice is polite and somewhat informal , making it a good fit for less formal email correspondences or during team discussions where everyone is sharing insights.

It’s appropriate for internal emails or smaller group discussions. This alternative shines in environments where personal reflection and individual insights are valued, such as in creative brainstorming sessions or strategy meetings.

4. As I see it

Compared to the original phrase, “As I see it” is a direct way to share your viewpoint. It’s professional and polite , indicating that what follows is your personal perspective. This alternative is excellent for conversations where you wish to present your stance without dismissing other viewpoints.

This phrase is best used in discussions or correspondence where clarity is paramount but you still want to acknowledge that you’re open to other interpretations. It’s suitable for emails to colleagues or in meetings where clear communication is key.

5. It seems to me

“It seems to me” is a softer, more reflective alternative to “in my opinion.” It subtly conveys that your statement is based on personal observation or thought. This choice is polite and somewhat informal , perfect for when you’re trying not to appear too definitive or when suggesting something that may prompt further discussion.

Ideal for speculative discussions or when floating preliminary ideas to your team or supervisor. It softens your message, making it more about opening up dialogue than dictating a particular direction.

“I think” is the most direct and straightforward of all the alternatives. It’s professional and polite , yet carries a simplicity that makes it incredibly versatile. This phrase is perfect for almost any situation where you need to express your thoughts clearly and concisely.

This alternative is particularly effective in emails, reports, or during meetings where brevity is appreciated. It can be used with colleagues, superiors, or clients, offering a clear indication of your thought process without excess formality.

7. In my view

“In my view” is quite similar to “in my opinion” but feels slightly more formal . It is professional and polite , making it an excellent choice for workplace communications where you want to emphasize your personal stance on an issue.

Best suited for formal reports, proposal evaluations, or during decision-making discussions. This phrase is particularly useful when addressing senior management or in any communication where you wish to underline the subjectivity of your assessment.

8. My view is

The phrase “My view is” is a direct statement of opinion that’s synonymous with expressing personal perspectives. It’s professional , yet slightly more assertive. This alternative is suitable for moments when you’re providing analysis or conclusions in a matter-of-fact manner.

It’s well-suited for writing reports, making recommendations, or any scenario where your role requires you to give an informed opinion. This alternative is particularly effective for correspondence with stakeholders or team leaders who value straightforward communication.

9. I consider

“I consider” is a thoughtful and considerate way to introduce your opinion. It suggests a level of reflection and analysis, making it professional and polite . This phrase is ideal for contexts where decisions are based on careful consideration of all factors.

This alternative is appropriate for in-depth analyses, strategic planning emails, or reports. It shines in professional settings where your arguments and recommendations need to show a high level of diligence and thoughtful examination.

10. Personally speaking

“Personally speaking” is a bit more casual than “in my opinion,” but it’s still professional enough for workplace communication. It has a polite air to it that implies the message is from your unique perspective. This phrase is particularly useful when you want to distinctly separate your personal views from your professional role.

This phrase can be especially effective in communications that call for a personal touch, such as feedback to colleagues or in discussions where sharing personal experiences or preferences is relevant. It’s valuable for creating a distinction between the professional and the personal.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right words can change how your message is received in a professional setting. The ten alternatives to “in my opinion” provided in this article are great tools for any workplace communication. They offer a range of tones, from formal to more casual, allowing you to match your language to the situation at hand.

Slava Velikiy, CEO of Rontar and GainRep, has over 20 years of experience in entrepreneurship, project management, and software development. Passionate about innovation and solving real-world problems, he shares his insights on entrepreneurship, leadership, and technology.

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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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In my opinion synonyms

What is another word for in my opinion .

• in my view as I see it
• to my mind as I see it
• in my book as I see it
• personally as I see it
• in my estimation as I see it
• as I see it
• for my money
• to my way of thinking
• from my standpoint
• to my thinking
• for my part
• in my judgement
• my sense is
• according to my belief
• in my judgment
• according to my lights
• I do believe
• to the best of my belief
• it seems to me

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 .

• 10 Better Ways To Write “In This Essay, I Will…”
• 9 Other Ways To Say “In My Opinion” (Formal & Friendly)
• 10 Other Ways to Say “I Am” in an Essay
• Can An Opinion Be Wrong Or Right? Full Explanation

Josh Shapiro Is A Top VP Contender. He’s Also Attracted More Controversy Than Any Other Candidate.

Senior Politics Reporter, HuffPost

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro has some obvious advantages as a potential running mate for Vice President Kamala Harris . He is a popular , moderate governor of a critical battleground state with strong ties to both law enforcement and organized labor .

In the two weeks since Shapiro emerged on Harris’ short list, however, he has also been subjected to a barrage of criticism — largely from more progressive detractors — and accompanying negative media coverage that would, at this point, make him more controversial with parts of the Democratic coalition than any of the other finalists for the No. 2 spot.

Initially, and perhaps most prominently, an ad-hoc group of individual left-wing activists and commentators has attacked Shapiro for being too pro-Israel — with one self-described Jewish leftist erecting a website titled NoGenocideJosh.com .

The proximate cause of these activists’ ire is Shapiro’s comment on CNN in April that elements of pro-Palestinian protests on college campuses were engaging in antisemitism. Shapiro distinguished between different kinds of protesters and also warned against Islamophobia on campus, but one polarizing line — sometimes stripped of context — has raised progressive hackles.

“We have to query whether or not we would tolerate this if this were people dressed up in KKK outfits or KKK regalia making comments about people who are African-American in our communities,” he said.

Shapiro’s allies note he holds a mainstream Democratic position on Israel-Palestine: He supports Israel’s right to exist and defend itself, wants a two-state solution, and views Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as an obstacle to peace. In January, Shapiro called Netanyahu “one of the worst leaders of all time.”

Several pro-Israel Democrats have argued that singling out Shapiro, an observant Jew, is antisemitic.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, another Democratic vice-presidential finalist, has a similarly conventional pro-Israel record and relatively uncritical stance on Israel’s prosecution of the war in Gaza, but he has not elicited an attack campaign from the left. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly , two other Democratic contenders who have not attracted much progressive scrutiny, have likewise taken pro-Israel stances anathema to the left.

“Singling [Shapiro] out, or applying a double standard to him over the war in Gaza, is antisemitic and wrong,” Rep. Adam Schiff, who is Jewish and the Democratic Senate nominee in California, posted on X . “Don’t go there.”

In the Atlantic , Yair Rosenberg has even proposed that Shapiro’s pro-Israel credentials make him uniquely suited to defend Harris amid inevitable disputes with the Israeli government and “insulate the boss from charges of anti-Semitism.”

But in the course of Shapiro’s brief moment in the national spotlight, more information has emerged about his history of pro-Israel views. The Philadelphia Inquirer reported on Friday that Shapiro had penned an op-ed for his college newspaper in which he argued that peace between Israelis and Palestinians “will never come,” because Palestinians are “too battle-minded” to accept Israel. The end of the column describes Shapiro as having volunteered for the Israeli military.

Bulwark reporter Marc Caputo also reported that shortly after graduating college, Shapiro worked in the Israeli Embassy’s public affairs division for five months between stints as a legislative aide for Democrats on Capitol Hill.

Shapiro’s staff clarified Friday that he no longer holds the views he expressed in his college newspaper. And while he volunteered on an Israeli army base in high school as part of a program in which he also spent time on a kibbutz, or farm commune, he did not engage in any military activity, his staff added.

“Since he wrote this piece as a 20-year old student, Governor Shapiro has built close, meaningful, informative relationships with many Muslim-American, Arab-American, Palestinian Christian, and Jewish community leaders all across Pennsylvania,” Shapiro spokesperson Manuel Bonder said in a statement. “The Governor greatly values their perspectives and the experiences he has learned from over the years – and as a result, as with many issues, his views on the Middle East have evolved into the position he holds today.”

Shapiro has simultaneously endured broadsides from some public education advocates over his support for private school vouchers . The position indeed puts him to the right of most elected Democrats , who regard vouchers as a giveaway to private school parents that deprives the public school system of essential funding.

“I’m still voting for Kamala, of course, but I sure wish her running mate was someone other than Shapiro,” said Victoria Switzer, a retired public school teacher in Pennsylvania piqued by Shapiro’s voucher support.

Shapiro maintains that he only supports vouchers to lock in increased public school funding through compromise with pro-voucher Republicans in control of the state Senate. Failing to reach that kind of deal, he has nonetheless consistently increased public school funding, including through a bipartisan agreement this year to provide an additional $4.5 billion to the state’s schools over the next nine years.

“Despite being the only Governor in the nation with a divided legislature – and despite bad faith attacks from all sides – Josh Shapiro has been a champion for public education and delivered real results,” Bonder, Shapiro’s spokesperson, said.

Switzer, a resident of natural gas-heavy Dimock, Pennsylvania, has another gripe with Shapiro: a settlement he reached in 2023 with a fracking company that had contaminated her town’s water. At the time, she had hailed him as the “people’s lawyer” for getting the company to pay for a new water line from a different well, but shortly afterward, she felt deceived when it emerged that the deal also allowed for fracking to return to Dimock and for the gas company to take over local water inspections from the state.

Switzer is one of a handful of environmental activists in Pennsylvania who wrote to the Harris campaign calling for her not to pick Shapiro on the basis of his conduct in the Dimock case.

“Under Governor Shapiro’s leadership, the Office of Attorney General secured a historic settlement for Pennsylvanians living in Dimock – getting Coterra Energy to finally take responsibility for polluting residents’ water and commit to building a new $16 million public water line to provide clean, reliable drinking water for generations to come,” Bonder said.

“I’m still voting for Kamala, of course, but I sure wish her running mate was someone other than Shapiro.” - Victoria Switzer, retired public school teacher

To some progressives though, the sheer volume of objections is reason enough to cast him aside.

Harris “has all of this good will, all of this energy, all this excitement,” said Rania Batrice, a Palestinian American progressive involved in climate advocacy. “If she chooses somebody with so much horrible baggage, it’s alienating to our base, many of whom felt alienated by [President Joe Biden ] already.”

Indeed, what began as a trickle of criticism aimed at Shapiro has swelled to a flood. On Saturday, The New York Times reported that advocates for survivors of sexual assault fault Shapiro for not dismissing a top aide over sexual harassment allegations until six months after a complaint about the aide was first made.

Bonder told the Times that Shapiro was “not aware of the complaint or investigation until months after the complaint was filed.”

Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.), who clashed with Shapiro while they served on the state’s board of pardons together, also communicated to the Harris campaign via his representatives that he is concerned Shapiro has an aversion to progressive sentencing reforms, Politico reported Saturday.

Shapiro’s allies have mustered a bit of a pushback campaign to highlight more positive stories about the governor. Veterans of former President Barack Obama ’s 2008 presidential campaign spoke to The New York Times about how Shapiro’s endorsement of Obama in 2008 — at a time when Democratic elected officials in the state were split between him and Hillary Clinton — kicked off a warm, lasting relationship between the two men.

Mark Penn, a centrist Democratic consultant, characterized Shapiro in a New York Times column as the antidote to Harris’ “one overriding weakness”: That “she is perceived as being to the left of Joe Biden.”

Joe Scarborough, the co-host of MSNBC’s influential liberal morning show “Morning Joe,” focused on Shapiro’s strength in Pennsylvania.

“Josh Shapiro is governor of the most important state in this election. He is the most experienced leader and gifted orator of the remaining (strong) candidates,” Scarborough posted on X . “He would present voters with the most dynamic ticket since Clinton/Gore in 1992, and will be ready to serve on Day 1.”

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More in politics.

• Help Center

Thesaurus for Opinions

Related terms for opinions - synonyms, antonyms and sentences with opinions, similar meaning.

• considerations
• conceptions
• standpoints
• conjectures
• impressions
• contentions
• observations
• assumptions

Opposite meaning

• number crunches
• certainties
• abandonment
• carelessness
• dereliction
• disinterest
• disregardance
• foolishness
• heedlessness
• inadvertence
• inattention
• inattentiveness
• indifference
• lack of care
• mistreatment

Common usage

• get a second opinion
• seek advice
• seek counsel
• very foolish
• ultracrepidarianism
• self deprecating
• self-deprecating
• advice most needed is least heeded
• apprehensions
• approbation
• be of importance
• body of knowledge
• determinations

Sentence Examples

Proper usage in context.

• Opinions are like assholes, everybody's got one Milton R. Sapirstein
• Opinions are the cheapest commodities in the world
• A great many people mistake opinions for thoughts Herbert Victor Prochnow
• I have bought golden opinions from all sorts of people William Shakespeare
• Men who borrow their opinions can never repay their debts Edward F. Halifax

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Guest Essay

After My Brother’s Overdose Death, Misinformed People Added to Our Grief

By John Woller

Dr. Woller is an internist in Baltimore.

On a crisp December morning in my small Southern hometown, my mother found my brother unresponsive in his bed. She knew she was too late. His body was cold, stiff and blue. Blood had pooled on one side of his face, causing it to swell. After her initial panic and calls to my father and 911, she was alone with my brother. She instinctively did what any mother would do: She covered him with blankets and lay down with him. She wanted to hold her son one more time.

When law enforcement officers arrived, they performed testing to confirm fentanyl overdose was the cause of death. When the test turned positive, they informed my parents that it was unsafe to enter my brother’s room. They instructed my parents to schedule expensive decontamination cleaning and provided contact information for a “bio cleaning” agency that deals with hazardous substances and environments.

The following day at the funeral home, where my brother’s body awaited cremation, my family and I were told that we would not be allowed to be in the same room with him because of the risk of fentanyl exposure and accidental overdose. It was unsafe for us to breathe the air in the room of someone who died “that way,” we were told. A funeral home employee told stories of family members who had lost consciousness after viewing loved ones who had died from fentanyl overdose, and of one family member who overdosed and died after visiting a deceased relative.

I was intent on seeing my brother. And as a physician who cares for patients who use fentanyl, I knew these claims were incorrect. I informed the employees that their policy was based on false information and incomplete anecdotes, and that they are needlessly depriving families of opportunities to see their loved ones. They relented only when we accepted responsibility for any potential exposure.

Spending time with my brother’s body was painful for all of us, but it was important for our grief process. We said goodbye through tears and held my brother’s hand one last time. Most important, it allowed my mother to see him resting peacefully, providing an alternative final image she can carry.

For the past few years, over 70,000 overdose deaths in the United States have involved synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl and its analogues. Most families grieving these deaths won’t have a doctor in the family to dispute misconceptions perpetuated by law enforcement, funeral homes and others. How many American families are being unnecessarily deprived of a somber, sacred moment based on stigma and rumors?

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