Expressions of disagreement in French
Ways to disagree politely or firmly — from mild nuance to direct contradiction:
“I don’t quite agree.” — softens disagreement, keeps discussion open.
“Not exactly.” — gently corrects without sounding confrontational.
“I see what you mean, but…” — acknowledges before disagreeing.
“With all due respect, …” — acknowledges before disagreeing.
“Yes, but...” — Acknowledging before disagreeing
“I understand, but...” — shows empathy first.
“Not really.” — mild disagreement.
“I don't think so.”
“Not quite.” — gentle correction.
“I don’t see it your way.” — casual, straightforward.
“I disagree.” — straightforward and polite.
“I don't think so/that's true.” — straightforward.
“You’re mistaken.” — familiar tone, used with friends.
“Not at all.” — clear contradiction, but not rude.
“That’s false / wrong.” — factual disagreement, not emotional.
“Absolutely not.” — emphatic disagreement.
"Nonsense! / Ridiculous!” — direct and dismissive.
"No, I'm not interested.” — dismissive.
“Are you kidding?” / “You can’t be serious.” — playful disbelief or mild annoyance, very common.