What’s the difference between saying “I suppose” and “I guess?”
Today, Lindsay and Aubrey answer a YouTube listener’s question.
They’ll explain the subtle nuances behind how and when to use these phrases.
Today’s question
The question we’re answering today is about very similar phrases.
However, they are used slightly differently.
What about “I guess” and “I suppose?”
– @05j7
Understanding the nuances of each can take your English to the next level and help you sound more natural when you speak.
“I guess” is more informal and casual, often showing a hunch or lack of strong information.
“I suppose” sounds slightly more formal, polite, or resigned, implying a careful conclusion or reluctant acceptance based on some reasoning.
How to use “I guess” and “I suppose”
Lindsay and Aubrey dive into the differences of the two phrases and how you can use them properly in a conversation.
Both “I guess” and “I suppose” can be used in two different ways.
They will also do mini roleplays to show you examples of how to use them with the right tone.
#1: Agree with reservation
Using either phrase can imply that you don’t agree or are very hesitant for some reason.
So instead of saying “yes, but I’m hesitant,” you can say ‘I guess’ or ‘I suppose.’
Mini roleplays:
Example A:
Lindsay: Should we send the proposal today?
Aubrey: I guess. It’s probably ready.
Lindsay: You don’t sound convinced.
Aubrey: Yeah… it could probably use some work still if we have time.
Example B:
Aubrey: Do you think we should loop the finance team in now?
Lindsay: I suppose. They’ll need the numbers sooner or later.
Aubrey: Sounds like you’re unsure.
Lindsay: Yeah… but I think you’re right that we should give them a heads-up.
#2: Expressing reservation about a statement
The next way is by responding ‘I guess’ or ‘I suppose’ when you are not entirely sure whether you agree or not with the statement you heard.
Mini roleplays:
Example A:
Aubrey: I guess we won’t know until next quarter if our marketing strategy worked.
Lindsay: True. I’m hopeful, though!
Example B:
Aubrey: I suppose we should send the prototype to the client. What do you think? Do you think it’s ready?
Lindsay: Yes, I think so. It would be good to get their feedback and then we can make any requested changes.
Roleplay
Here is a roleplay using the vocabulary shared in today’s episode.
Hopefully this gives you an additional idea of how to better use these in your own conversations.
In this scenario, Lindsay and Aubrey are discussing a project at work.
Lindsay: I suppose we should push the product demo to next week. What do you think?
Aubrey: I guess. The team still needs time to finalize the visuals.
Lindsay: I can tell you’re frustrated. I think we’re both worried the client might lose momentum if we delay again.
Aubrey: You’re right. I guess we could check with them before we decide.
Lindsay: I suppose. They might prefer for us to just make the decision. It’s a tough call.
Takeaway
Learning expressions like “I guess” and “I suppose” will help you move beyond direct, literal responses.
It will allow you to start communicating with more confidence and emotional awareness.
These phrases allow you to sound less rigid, soften your opinions, and show hesitation or openness in a natural way.
When you understand and use this kind of nuanced vocabulary, your English becomes more flexible, and conversational.
Check out other episodes from the Business English podcast that can help you use more nuanced responses at work.
For example, don’t miss BE 491: Can You Use the Word Guess at Work?
In this episode you’ll learn about phrases like “venture a guess” and “a wild guess.”
Can you share with us a favorite response you say at work when you’re not sure?
Share it with us in the comments below.
