From this angle
Academic essay writing expression
Literally: From (starting point) this (specific) angle (direction of sight)
In 15 Seconds
- Used to introduce a specific viewpoint or perspective.
- Common in academic writing and professional debates.
- Helps transition between different points of analysis.
Meaning
This phrase is used to introduce a specific way of looking at a problem or situation. It is like telling someone to stand in a different spot so they can see a new part of the picture.
Key Examples
3 of 6In a business meeting discussing a new product
From this angle, the marketing costs are actually quite reasonable.
From this angle, the marketing costs are actually quite reasonable.
Looking at a potential new apartment
From this angle, you can see the park through the window.
From this angle, you can see the park through the window.
Discussing a movie with a friend
From this angle, the main character is actually the villain.
From this angle, the main character is actually the villain.
Cultural Background
In American business culture, 'finding a new angle' is synonymous with innovation. It is highly valued in marketing and entrepreneurship as a way to disrupt established markets. British English often uses 'from this angle' in political discourse to provide a 'fair and balanced' view, reflecting a cultural value of seeing both sides of an argument. While the phrase is used, Japanese culture often prefers more indirect ways to disagree. Using 'from this angle' is a polite way to offer a different opinion without being blunt. In many Arabic-speaking cultures, storytelling and perspective are deeply valued. The phrase is often used to introduce a moral or a lesson learned from a specific life event.
Use it to soften disagreement
If you want to disagree with a boss, start with 'From this angle...' to make your point sound like an observation rather than a challenge.
Don't say 'In this angle'
This is the most common mistake. Always use 'from' when talking about a viewpoint.
In 15 Seconds
- Used to introduce a specific viewpoint or perspective.
- Common in academic writing and professional debates.
- Helps transition between different points of analysis.
What It Means
Imagine you are standing in front of a giant sculpture. From the front, it looks like a circle. But if you walk to the side, it looks like a square. From this angle is a phrase we use to talk about ideas in the same way. It tells people you are looking at one specific part of a big problem. It is not just about your eyes. It is about your mind. You are choosing a specific way to think about a topic. It helps you break down complex issues into smaller, manageable pieces.
How To Use It
You usually put this phrase at the very start of your sentence. It acts like a signpost. It tells the listener, "Hey, look over here!" After you say from this angle, you must add a comma. Then, you explain your specific thought. For example, "From this angle, the plan seems too expensive." You can also use it in the middle of a sentence. But starting with it is much more common. It makes you sound organized and thoughtful. It is a great way to transition between different points in a long talk.
When To Use It
Use it when you want to show you have thought deeply. It is perfect for business meetings. It works great in university essays. Use it when you are comparing two different ideas. It is also helpful when you disagree with someone politely. Instead of saying "You are wrong," you say, "Well, from this angle, I see it differently." It makes the conversation feel like a shared discovery. You can also use it when looking at physical things. Use it when checking out a new car or a potential house. It shows you are being thorough.
When NOT To Use It
Do not use it for simple, objective facts. If you say, "From this angle, the sun is hot," people will be confused. It is for things that have many sides or opinions. Avoid using it too many times in one paragraph. It can get repetitive and lose its impact. Also, do not use it if you are talking about a physical corner in a math class. Use "at this angle" for geometry. If you are talking about a literal corner of a room, this phrase might sound a bit too poetic or strange.
Cultural Background
This phrase comes from the world of art and architecture. Painters know that light changes depending on where you stand. In Western culture, we value "critical thinking." This means looking at a problem from many sides before deciding. From this angle is a linguistic tool for that process. It shows you are open-minded and not stuck in one way of thinking. It became very popular in the 20th century as people started focusing more on individual perspectives in philosophy and science.
Common Variations
You might hear people say from another angle. This is used when you want to switch topics entirely. Looking at it from this angle is a slightly longer version. It feels a bit more casual and conversational. Some people say from this perspective. That is much more formal and common in textbooks. If you want to sound very academic, you can say through this lens. It means the same thing but sounds more sophisticated. All of these help you navigate complex conversations smoothly.
Usage Notes
The phrase is highly versatile, fitting into both formal essays and casual debates. It acts as a 'softener' when disagreeing, making your point sound like an observation rather than an attack.
Use it to soften disagreement
If you want to disagree with a boss, start with 'From this angle...' to make your point sound like an observation rather than a challenge.
Don't say 'In this angle'
This is the most common mistake. Always use 'from' when talking about a viewpoint.
Journalism 'Angles'
In English-speaking media, an 'angle' is the specific focus of a news story. If you're a writer, always ask yourself: 'What's my angle?'
Examples
6From this angle, the marketing costs are actually quite reasonable.
From this angle, the marketing costs are actually quite reasonable.
The speaker is focusing specifically on the budget aspect.
From this angle, you can see the park through the window.
From this angle, you can see the park through the window.
A literal use referring to a physical viewpoint.
From this angle, the main character is actually the villain.
From this angle, the main character is actually the villain.
Used to present a unique interpretation of a story.
From this angle, it looks like he just forgot to reply.
From this angle, it looks like he just forgot to reply.
Trying to find a logical explanation for a friend's behavior.
Well, from this angle, it doesn't look *that* crooked!
Well, from this angle, it doesn't look *that* crooked!
Using the phrase to try and find a 'silver lining' in a funny way.
From this angle, moving abroad seems like the only way to grow.
From this angle, moving abroad seems like the only way to grow.
Expressing a deeply held personal perspective on a major decision.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing preposition.
____ this angle, the painting looks like a sunset.
In English, we always use 'from' to indicate the starting point of a perspective.
Which sentence uses the phrase figuratively?
Choose the best option:
This sentence uses 'angle' to mean a mental perspective on a financial situation.
Complete the dialogue with the most natural response.
Speaker A: 'I think we should cancel the event because of the rain.' Speaker B: 'I disagree. ________, the rain makes it more atmospheric and unique.'
'From this angle' is the standard way to introduce a counter-perspective in a discussion.
Match the 'angle' to the context.
Match: 1. Financial Angle, 2. Physical Angle, 3. Ethical Angle
These adjectives modify 'angle' to specify the type of perspective being used.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercises____ this angle, the painting looks like a sunset.
In English, we always use 'from' to indicate the starting point of a perspective.
Choose the best option:
This sentence uses 'angle' to mean a mental perspective on a financial situation.
Speaker A: 'I think we should cancel the event because of the rain.' Speaker B: 'I disagree. ________, the rain makes it more atmospheric and unique.'
'From this angle' is the standard way to introduce a counter-perspective in a discussion.
Match: 1. Financial Angle, 2. Physical Angle, 3. Ethical Angle
These adjectives modify 'angle' to specify the type of perspective being used.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsYes! 'From that angle' is used when referring to a perspective someone else just mentioned.
It's neutral. You can use it with your friends or in a business report.
'Perspective' is slightly more formal and broad. 'Angle' often implies a more specific or sharp focus.
Not usually. You wouldn't say 'From this angle, John is tall' unless you are literally looking at him from a weird position.
Related Phrases
From my point of view
synonymBased on my personal opinion or experience.
In my opinion
similarWhat I think about something.
From every angle
builds onConsidering all possible perspectives.
A different slant
similarA specific, often biased, way of looking at something.
Standpoint
synonymA position from which things are considered.
