How do you tell your friend that you disagree with them without hurting their feelings?

I believe starting with letting them know that you understand their point, and keep it on their point not them. Next I would ask them questions about their point and or ask them if they have considered... and offer an alternative view.

I would say that I understand where they are coming from, and that I will respect them for their opinion and that I do not agree with them on that matter.

This is actually kind of hard for me, because I have a thing about causing conflict. But I generally try to talk through the difference, explaining the rationale behind my opinion, and give my friend a chance to explain their side. Usually, the difference in opinion is because of a difference in background, so when you find out what is driving the other person, it's a lot easier to respect them and their opinion. You still might not agree, but if you approach it from a place of understanding, feelings usually stay unbruised.

By being polite and respectful and expressing your opinion stressing that it is your personal opinion and friends do not have to agree on everything.

I would say something like "hey I want you to know that I care about you but I don't agree with ..."

Acknowledge and try to understand how they are feeling, first. Then try explaining to them that you feel differently, but that their opinion is still valid nonetheless. Express that you understand where they are coming from and which parts of their opinion you might agree with and which you don't. Use sentences involving "I", for example say "I feel like this is the better option" instead of "You are wrong because". Assure your friend that you still cherish them despite not agreeing with them and explain to them that you can't always have the same opinion in a friendship and that that's okay. I'm sure they will understand!

In my experience, this is all about the wording and tone of voice. Rather than going out and saying that they're just wrong, say that you disagree. Be kind and calm about it. Show that you still respect their opinion and them as a person by not getting angry or rude to them.

Don't just outright say they're wrong, acknowledge them like maybe start with "I see where you're coming from but I think ...." and just stay respectful through it and don't make them feel dumb.

A true friend won't mind if you disagree with them. It mainly depends however on what it is. Try and avoid religion and politics unless you have both agreed to discuss it. Be respectful and tell them you disagree in a polite manner, ideally supported by facts.

well I think that if you're close enough, you can always have debates and honest conversations no matter how controversial.

It's okay to not always agree with people. It's just a part of life! We're not always going to like everything everybody says. You can either choose to ignore it, or talk to the person about it. If you choose to talk about it, it can be helpful to plan out what you're going to say in advance. You can write it out or even practice saying it. Make sure you're respectful, keep a calm tone, and list your reasons why you don't agree. In the grand scheme of things, they may or may not agree in the end, but you can't control that. It's worth talking to them about if it's really bothering you though.

It is very compassionate of you to consider your friends feelings. Telling people that you disagree is not combative so long as it is done peacefully and with the motivation of not changing them, but letting them know you disagree for these reasons, but you respectively disagree with their opinion. We are all humans, we can disagree, the problem is when people bring emotions into the mix instead of realizing we can't agree on everything. A real friendship will go through times when you will disagree with each other, that is is normal, it is how you handle your words that keeps the friendship on solid ground. It is always wise to take caution on tone and delivery of a topic you might disagree on.

Just be calm and try to explain your opinion and try not to make them think they're stupid. I think it works best when I give examples.

Tell them you respect their decision/ opinion but that you do not feel the same way and that you respectfully disagree

Tell them that you disagree, but there opinion is valid, and by working together we can find something that works for the both of us.

I would do it gently and gradually. Maybe start by explaining that you completely respect their opinion, however you politely disagree with their conclusion. Validate their feelings, thoughts and opinions, however explain that you simply have a different perspective due to having a different set of experiences. Then, calmly and with respect, explain your thoughts and reasons and ask if they can see your perspective. Also, make it abundantly clear that you are perfectly fine with agreeing to disagree and you respect their thoughts, opinions and points of view. The worst thing you can do, especially if this is a beleif or opinion that they hold dear, is to be confrontational about it or tell them they are "just plain wrong". If this opinion is key to their entire belief system, the are more likely they are to lash out at any perceived "attack" on their ideas. The more important their belief is to their sense of self, the more any contradiction will feel like a personal afront to who they are as a person. As long as it comes from a genuine place of friendship and respect they should understand that you are saying it, not to undermine them or their ideology, but to share your thoughts with someone you consider an equal and confidant and that is the only reason that you too opened up about your thoughts. I hope this helps!

Confession has to honest, if I am supposed to tell a friend of mine that I disagree with them then I would politely say it, politeness would never hurt anyone's feelings.. :)

Be honest without being harsh or brutal. It is completely alright to disagree. Make sure that they know just because you do not agree does not mean their opinion is wrong or they you cannot be friends. Sometimes people think that if you do not agree with them then you are disagreeing with who they are as a person or you cannot be friends. Tell them gently and ensure them that you are still in a good place.

Part of a friendship is being able to agree to disagree - if you are feeling that you always have to agree...then where is your voice in the relationship?

It's perfectly okay to disagree with friends! Approaching a difference in opinion is an important skill to develop when interacting with anyone, but especially with friends. While finding out that a friend holds different morals or beliefs to your own might be surprising, it is important to understand that your friends are absolutely allowed to believe whatever they want. Showing a respectful acceptance of the fact that your friend holds a different belief demonstrates strength and trustworthiness. Allowing your friend to explain, or asking respectful questions to gain understanding can actually strengthen your friendship and generate trust. If you disagree adimently, it is okay to state that you see things differently. Doing so in a respectful and reasonable manner is a vital ingredient to forming strong relationships with others. Avoid the knee-jerk reaction of becoming offended. Also, avoid the potential instinct to attempt to 'convert' your friend to agree with your own beliefs. If nothing else, it is fair to tell your friend, "I have very different beliefs on this topic and I'm not really ready to talk about it. Let's change the subject."

For this it really does depend on the relationship level of your friend and you, the topic of discussion, and how much it is worth disagreeing with them on that topic and the importance of it! If you still want to then you have to talk to them normally and calmly but by being careful with your choice of words and making sure to reiterate that it is your opinion and you respect there’s as well! Respect is a HUGE part of why people’s feelings generally get hurt in arguments or in disagreements with friends because respect can go out the window sometimes in heated conversations SO for this just remember to stay kind and understanding and empathetic to their views and respect what they have to say in order for them to also respect YOUR opinion!

First speak softly and kindly. You can also say explicitly that even though you do not agree, still you respect their view and you are open to change your own mind. For example, my spouse may agree with the republicans while I am leaning towards the democratic party. We can have a conversation about specific aspects and leaders and try to talk about content more than about the outer form. Also, I may not always voice my disagreement, in particular if it could entail pain. Trying always to look at the broader picture. Unity in diversity.

I've taken much care and thought into what you've said. That's a great idea that could work in a different situation but not this time. You always bring such strong ideas to the table and I don't want you to feel like I don't appreciate your idea It's just not appropriate at this time. You and I are just too good of friends to let this come between us. I've always thought you were really understanding and open to new ideas and ways of thinking so thank you for being exactly that, understanding and open. Do you understand where I'm coming from?

One piece of advice I’ve been given is to use “I” statements. Start your sentence with “I”. Instead of saying “you’re wrong because”, say “I think”. That way they are less likely to be defensive and feel personally hurt. You can also pay special attention to your tone of voice and body language. If you act calm and casual, your friend might take it more lightly. Be sure to phrase your opinions as opinions, not as facts. It’s also important to recognize that it isn’t always worth it. Some issues are small ones, and while you should be able to express yourself to a friend, you should pick your battles, especially if it’s a touchy subject.

If you disagree with your friend, you should be honest with them by telling them how you feel. If they are your true friend they will understand why you feel that way. Keeping your feelings on the inside may hurt you and your friend in the long run, being honest now can save you from further drama. Telling them respectfully is very important in avoiding to hurt their feelings. As long as you stick with your opinion, but also see their side of the story, your friend should respect your opinion and you guys can come up with a compromise or an understanding.

Well by starting with "don't take this the wrong way, but I disagree with what you said because I think...." But the way you say it also affects the way the take it, so try to sound like you're not arguing and its just your opinion. You can also say "I understand what you're saying and I wont take that from you,but I think that I have to disagree with you on that" which tells them you are disregarding their opinion but they should also take yours into consideration. I hope this was helpful in any way possible, and if not then sorry I guess.

We all have different opinions and we all have different reactions to other's opinions. You have a friend means you may know how they react. If you think they will react badly you may be hurting things by expressing yours. If you don't know how they react, say that and don't be afraid of their answer. Most people who are prepared have a much diminished reaction if it is negative. Make every effort to share though. We all grow because new perspectives and other opinions shape what we know and believe about the world around us. The least answered question is the one not asked and the least explored topic is the one that nobody talks about.

A fairly reasonable approach in how you express your feelings towards a friend without hurting their feelings through understanding and respect. While being there for them as a friend, you can do your best at maintaining a calm, polite attitude when you address that you disagree with them. Friends are not always right and it is important in any relationship that we agree to disagree. You can also be aware of the little things like your body language, tone of voice, and the positive words to use instead of negative words. For example instead of saying 'I hate it when you do..', you can try saying 'It hurts me when you do..'.

You can't really prevent someone's feelings being hurt. Ultimately, anyway. Be respectful and sensitive and be careful not to introduce your own point of view dismissively. Remember that everyone's point of view is personal to them - including yours - and that they are valid. What people think and believe is very real to them and there is a way of going about disagreeing without invalidating anyone. Let's say you're debating with a friend about what cheese you like. Your friend likes blue cheese and you think that mature cheddar is best. It doesn't need to be a lecture. It's a conversation. As far as you might think your friend may think you're also wrong and disagree with your opinion. People disagree. It's healthy. Different perspectives is what you want (anti-echo chamber). Ask questions and politely introduce your own persective. Then, discuss - and whatever happens next. Agree to diagree. A mutual understanding. Or a middle ground. I didn't really finish the cheese example. And I have no idea what you may or may not be disagreeing on as a friend. If it's something major and serious - then lead with your intentions as a friend that cares. I don't think it's about talking at people - but talking with them. But that's just my two pence. Hope it helps either way.

The best thing to do is to stay respectful and to explain why you disagree. First, you can say that while you do see where they are coming from, your opinion differs from theirs. Next, you can explain your reasoning while making sure they understand and are not hurt by anything you are saying. You can respond to their statement and / or opinion just do not make it sound like you think it is bad. You can also ask them to explain their opinion more so that they see that you respect them and their statement even though you disagree.