I wouldn't go that far - what does it mean?

[Heidi L]

What does it mean , I wouldn't go that far, in the following context? Thank you.

A: I think a scooter is more practical.

B: Why is that?

A: Well, scooters go as fast as cars in the city, so they don't hold up traffic. And they can get through crowed streets like a bike.

B: True, but ...

A: (interrupts) The convenience of a scooter can't be matched!

B: I wouldn't go that far. Scooters may be practical, but what about their effect on the environment?

 

[emsr2d2]

It means "I wouldn't use such a strong/bold statement. I would use something a bit more mild/less drastic". In this case, B disagrees with A about scooters being unmatched so she is effectively saying "I wouldn't say something as strong as 'The convenience of a scooter can't be matched'. I might say they're practical but bad for the environment."

You will also hear "I wouldn't go as far as to say that" in the same sort of situation.