When collaborating on projects, seeking feedback, or simply making plans with friends, finding the right way to ask for opinions can make a significant difference in the responses you receive. Often, we default to the familiar phrase, “How does that sound?”
However, this phrase, while effective, can become repetitive and may not always capture the nuance needed for every situation.
In this blog post, we explore various synonyms for “How does that sound?” providing you with a range of alternatives that can help tailor your requests for feedback or approval to fit different contexts and formality levels.
Other ways to say, “How does that sound?“
Here are 11 synonyms or phrases you could use instead of “How does that sound?”:
- What do you think?
- Does that seem alright to you?
- How does that strike you?
- Is that okay with you?
- Sound good?
- Do you agree?
- What’s your take on this?
- Are you on board with that?
- Is that acceptable to you?
- Does that work for you?
- Your thoughts?
1. What do you think? (Casual to Semi-Formal)
“What do you think?” is a versatile expression that ranges from casual to semi-formal contexts, inviting the listener’s opinion or judgment on a matter.
It implies that the speaker values the listener’s perspective and is open to suggestions or criticisms.
This phrase is suitable for discussions where input from others is crucial for decision-making or validation.
Usage Example:
During the team meeting, Maria displayed the new design layout and asked, “What do you think? Should we go ahead with this style?”
2. Does that seem alright to you? (Polite)
“Does that seem alright to you?” is a polite and considerate way to seek approval or agreement from someone else. It shows care for the listener’s comfort or preference, often used when finalizing decisions that affect them directly. This phrase is commonly employed in both personal and professional settings to ensure consensus.
Usage Example:
After adjusting the meeting schedule, Tom emailed his colleague, saying, “I’ve moved our appointment to 3 PM. Does that seem alright to you?”
3. How does that strike you? (Thoughtful)
“How does that strike you?” is used to gauge someone’s initial reaction or feelings towards a suggestion or idea. It’s a thoughtful approach that invites honest and instinctive feedback, often in creative or strategic contexts where diverse viewpoints enhance the outcome.
Usage Example: Lisa presented the marketing campaign idea to her boss and asked, “How does that strike you? Do we need more visual elements?”
4. Is that okay with you? (Considerate)
“Is that okay with you?” is a considerate phrase, prioritizing the listener’s approval or comfort.
It’s particularly useful in situations where the speaker wants to ensure that the proposed action or decision does not inconvenience or disadvantage the other party. This phrase fosters a respectful and collaborative environment.
Usage Example:
Before concluding the client call, Derek inquired, “We’re planning to ship the products by next week. Is that okay with you?”
5. Sound good? (Informal)
“Sound good?” is an informal and concise way to seek affirmation or agreement. It’s typically used in casual conversations or less formal settings where brevity is appreciated. This phrase is perfect for quickly checking if plans or ideas are acceptable before moving forward.
Usage Example:
While planning a weekend outing, Jenna texted her friends, “Let’s meet at the mall at noon. Sound good?”
6. Do you agree? (Straightforward)
“Do you agree?” is a straightforward question that directly seeks concurrence on a topic or proposal. It’s typically used in contexts where a clear and unambiguous agreement is necessary, often in meetings or discussions involving policies, strategies, or contractual agreements. This phrase helps ensure that all parties are on the same page before proceeding.
Usage Example:
In the strategy session, the manager outlined the new sales targets and asked the team, “Do you agree with these goals, or should we adjust them?”
7. What’s your take on this? (Inviting)
“What’s your take on this?” is an inviting phrase that encourages the listener to share their detailed thoughts or analysis on a subject.
It’s particularly useful when seeking in-depth input and is often used in brainstorming sessions or when discussing complex issues where multiple perspectives can lead to a better understanding.
Usage Example:
During the book club discussion, Emily asked, “We’ve all read the chapter on existential themes. What’s your take on this? How do you interpret the author’s message?”
8. Are you on board with that? (Confirmatory)
“Are you on board with that?” is a confirmatory phrase used to check if someone is in agreement with a plan or idea and is willing to support it moving forward.
It implies a sense of teamwork and unity, making it ideal for collaborative environments where buy-in is crucial.
Usage Example:
After outlining the new workflow process, the project leader looked around the room and asked, “Are you on board with that, or does anyone see potential issues we haven’t discussed?”
9. Is that acceptable to you? (Formal and Respectful)
“Is that acceptable to you?” is a formal and respectful way to inquire about someone’s consent or approval, often used in situations where formalities are important or where the stakes are high.
This phrase ensures that all parties are not only aware of but are also comfortable with the proposed terms or actions.
Usage Example:
In negotiating the terms of a new contract, the lawyer said, “We propose an extension of two months on the current terms. Is that acceptable to you?”
10. Does that work for you? (Practical)
“Does that work for you?” is a practical phrase used to confirm if a plan or suggestion fits well with someone else’s schedule, needs, or expectations.
It’s commonly employed in coordinating activities or making arrangements that require mutual convenience.
Usage Example:
Sarah proposed a timeline for the project phases and asked her team, “I’ve scheduled the initial review for next Thursday. Does that work for you?”
11. Your thoughts? (Open-Ended)
“Your thoughts?” is an open-ended invitation for feedback, leaving the floor open for any type of response, from detailed critique to general impressions.
This phrase is excellent for encouraging free-form dialogue and is often used in creative fields or during strategic planning, where all feedback is valued.
Usage Example:
After a presentation on potential investment opportunities, the financial advisor turned to his client and asked, “Your thoughts? Which options do you feel align best with your financial goals?”