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Writing an Opinion Article

阅读 10 分钟 · ～に先立って (prior to) · ～を契機に (taking the opportunity of)

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词汇

に先立ってprior to
を契機にtaking the opportunity of
社説editorial
論説opinion piece/editorial
持論one's own theory/opinion
是非right and wrong/pros and cons
賛否approval and disapproval
主張するto assert/argue
反駁するto refute
提唱するto advocate/propose

Writing an Opinion Article in Japanese

At C1 level, writing a compelling opinion article (意見記事) requires mastering two key grammar patterns that add sophistication to your argumentation.

～に先立って (ni sakidatte) means "prior to" or "ahead of." It is used in formal writing to introduce background or preparatory context before a main event or argument.

議論に先立って、基本的な事実を確認しよう。
Prior to the discussion, let us confirm the basic facts.

～を契機に (wo keiki ni) means "taking the opportunity of" or "triggered by." It marks a turning point or catalyst that led to change.

この事件を契機に、法律が改正された。
Triggered by this incident, the law was revised.

In opinion writing, these patterns help you structure logical flow: 先立って sets up context, while 契機に introduces cause-and-effect reasoning. Combine them with assertion verbs like 主張する and 提唱する for persuasive prose.