Difference between revisions of "Language/English/Vocabulary/Helpful-Phrases-for-the-Business-World"

From Polyglot Club WIKI
Jump to navigation Jump to search
(Created page with "If you are planning to travel for work, you will probably find yourself in some major urban (big city) centers. English will be the universal (common) language in the office,...")
 
m (Quick edit)
 
(68 intermediate revisions by 2 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
If you are planning to travel for work, you will probably find yourself in some major urban (big city) centers. English will be the universal (common) language in the office, so to get ahead in business it’s good to know some of the language you will be using every day.
[[File:english-business-vocabulary.png|thumb]]


I hope that you find this guide helpful!
<languages/>
<translate>
<!--T:1-->
In today's lesson you will learn some essential vocabulary to help you in the business English world. To get ahead in this world, it’s important to know the language you will be using every day.


= '''Essential Phrases for Meetings, Presentations, Phone Calls and More''' =
<!--T:2-->
{| class="wikitable"
I hope you find this guide helpful!
!Phrase
!Meaning
|-
|'''a tough break'''
|When something unfortunate happens, it can be called a "tough break."
|-
|'''ahead of the curve'''
|To be "ahead of the curve" means to be more advanced than the competition.
|-
|'''ahead of the pack'''
|To be "ahead of the pack" means to be better or more successful than the competition.
|-
|'''ASAP'''
|"ASAP" is an acronym for "as soon as possible."
|-
|'''at stake'''
|"At stake" means at risk.
|-
|'''back to square one'''
|To go "back to square one" means to start something over again.
|-
|'''back to the drawing board'''
|To go "back to the drawing board" means to start something over and go back to the planning stage.
|-
|'''backroom deal'''
|A "backroom deal" is an agreement or decision that is made without the public knowing about it.
|-
|'''ballpark number/figure'''
|A "ballpark number" is a very inexact estimate.
|-
|'''behind someone's back'''
|To do something "behind someone's back" means to do something without someone's knowledge and in an unfair way.
|-
|'''behind the scenes'''
|What happens in secret or not in front of the general public is said to happen "behind the scenes."
|-
|'''big picture'''
|Everything that is involved with a particular situation is called "the big picture."
|-
|'''blue collar'''
|A "blue collar worker" is someone who works with his hands (manufacturing, construction, maintenance, etc.).
The opposite is a "white collar worker." A white collar worker is someone who works in an office (customer service, management, sales, etc.).


"Blue collar" (and "white collar") can also be used to describe a job, position, or a place.
<!--T:3-->
|-
Feel free to edit and add more phrases and examples. You can also leave comments below.
|'''by the book'''
 
|To do things "by the book" means to do things according to company policy or the law. It means to follow the rules 100%.
==an old hand== <!--T:4-->
|-
a person who has long experience, especially in one place.
|'''call it a day'''
 
|To "call it a day" means to decide to stop working for the day.
*Example: "He can help us set up a company in Paris. He's been working in France for many years and speaks French fluently. He's an old France hand."
|-
==ASAP== <!--T:5-->
|'''catch someone off guard'''
"ASAP" is an acronym for "as soon as possible.
|To "catch someone off guard" means to surprise someone by doing something that he or she was not expecting.
 
|-
*Example: "I'm in a meeting now, but I'll call you back asap."
|'''cave (or cave in)'''
==in the 11th hour== <!--T:6-->
|To "cave" or "cave in" means to give in or agree to something that someone previously did not want to accept.
very late, at the very last minute.
|-
 
|'''change of pace'''
*Example: "The Director reached an agreement in the 11th hour."
|"A change of pace" is something different from a normal routine or schedule.
==back to square one== <!--T:7-->
|-
To go "back to square one" means to start something over again.
|'''come up short'''
 
|To "come up short" means to try to achieve something but fail. We often say that someone has "come up short" when someone
*Example: "If they do not accept our deal, we will be back to square one."
fails to achieve a goal, but not completely.
==backroom deal== <!--T:8-->
|-
A "backroom deal" is an agreement or decision that is made without the public knowing about it.
|'''corner a market'''
 
|To "corner a market" means to dominate a particular market.
*Example: "I don' t care what backroom deal he made!"
|-
==ballpark number/figure== <!--T:9-->
|'''cut corners'''
A "ballpark number" is a very inexact estimate.
|To "cut corners" means to take shortcuts and find an easier or cheaper way to do something.
 
|-
*Example: "I know you can't tell me exactly the date, but can you give a ballpark estimate?"
|'''cut one's losses'''
==behind someone's back== <!--T:10-->
|To "cut one's losses" means to stop doing something that is unproductive and won't ever generate results.
To do something "behind someone's back" means to do something without someone's knowledge and in an unfair way.
|-
 
|'''cut-throat'''
*Example: "it's not right to talk about people behind their backs."
|"Cut-throat" is used to describe something that is very intense, aggressive, and merciless.
==behind the scenes== <!--T:11-->
|-
What happens in secret or not in front of the general public is said to happen "behind the scenes."
|'''diamond in the rough'''
 
|A "diamond in the rough" is something or someone that has a lot of potential but first requires a lot of work.
*Example: "He exerted some behind-the-scenes influence when the project was being planned."
|-
==bring to the table== <!--T:12-->
|'''easy come, easy go'''
whatever you can possibly offer.
|"Easy come, easy go," is an expression used to communicate that something gained easily is also lost easily.
 
We often use this expression after something has been lost.
*Example: "I will meet with Teacher Joe's new company to show him what we can bring to the table."
|-
==carve out a niche == <!--T:13-->
|'''fifty-fifty'''
find a special market that you can control.
|"Fifty-fifty" means something is divided equally -- 50% for one party, 50% for the other party.
 
|-
*Example: "To succeed in this competitive world, you have to focus on part of it. Try to carve out a niche and be number one in that are."
|'''from the ground up'''
==a deadline== <!--T:14-->
|If you start a business, project, or something else from zero, you start it "from the ground up."
the latest date by which something should be finished.
|-
 
|'''game plan'''
*Example: "The deadline for handing in our essays is 5:00 this Monday"
|A "game plan" is a strategy or plan.
==deep pockets== <!--T:15-->
|-
have a lot of money.
|'''get back in/into the swing of things'''
 
|To "get back in/into the swing of things" means to get used to doing something again after having a break from that activity.
*Example: "If there is a price war, we won't win because we don't have deep enough pockets."
|-
==down time== <!--T:16-->
|'''get down to business'''
when equipment of facilities are not available, so you cannot work.
|To "get down to business" means to stop making small talk and start talking about serious topics related to business.
 
|-
*Example: "There will probably be a lot of down time at the conference, so I'm bringing a lot of paperwork."
|'''get something off the ground'''
==easy come, easy go== <!--T:17-->
|To "get something off the ground" means to start a project or business.
"Easy come, easy go," is an expression used to communicate that something gained easily is also lost easily.
|-
 
|'''get the ball rolling'''
*Example: "it's easy come, easy go, really, because I've just lost a small amount of money. "
|To "get the ball rolling" means to start something (a project, for example).
==fifty-fifty== <!--T:18-->
|-
"Fifty-fifty" means something is divided equally -- 50% for one party, 50% for the other party.
|'''get/be on the good side of someone'''
 
|If someone likes you, you are "on the good side" of that person.
<!--T:19-->
|-
*Example: "There is a fifty-fifty chance of this happening"
|'''get/have one's foot in the door'''
 
|To "get or have one's foot in the door" means to take a low-level position with a company with the goal of eventually getting a better position with the same company.
==free ride== <!--T:20-->
|-
get benefit at no cost.
|'''give someone a pat on the back'''
 
|To "give someone a pat on the back" means to tell someone that they did a good job.
*Example: "Of course we should make them pay for our travel expenses. WHy should we give them a free ride?"
|-
==from day one== <!--T:21-->
|'''give the thumbs down'''
from the beginning.
|To "give something or someone the thumbs down" means to deny approval.
 
|-
*Example: "Teacher Joe has been providing the best English-learning web site from day one!"
|'''give the thumbs up'''
==from the ground up== <!--T:22-->
|To "give something or someone the thumbs up" means to give approval.
If you start a business, project, or something else from zero, you start it "from the ground up."
|-
 
|'''go broke'''
*Example: "He must plan his sales campaign carefully from the ground up."
|To "go broke" means to go bankrupt or to lose all the money a person or business had.
==game plan== <!--T:23-->
|-
A "game plan" is a strategy or plan.
|'''go down the drain'''
 
|When someone wastes or loses something, it is said to "go down the drain."
*Example: "Part of their game plan is to expand into China"
|-
==get back in/into the swing of things== <!--T:24-->
|'''go the extra mile'''
To "get back in/into the swing of things" means to get used to doing something again after having a break from that activity.
|To "go the extra mile" means to do more than what people expect.
 
|-
<!--T:25-->
|'''go through the roof'''
*Example: "He only started work last week, but he quickly got into the swing of things."
|If something is "going through the roof," it means it is rapidly increasing.
 
|-
==get down to business== <!--T:26-->
|'''gray area'''
To "get down to business" means to stop making small talk and start talking about serious topics related to business.
|If something is in a "gray area," it means that it is something undefined and not easily categorized.
 
|-
*Example: "As you have a lot to do, you better get down to business."
|'''ground-breaking'''
==get something off the ground== <!--T:27-->
|If something is "ground-breaking," it means it is new and innovative.
To "get something off the ground" means to start a project or business.
|-
 
|'''hands are tied'''
*Example: "It is my job to get this project off the ground."
|Someone's "hands are tied" if they do not have control over a situation.
==get the ball rolling== <!--T:28-->
|-
To "get the ball rolling" means to start something (a project, for example).
|'''have someone's work cut out'''
 
|If you have a lot of work to do or a particularly difficult assignment, you "have your work cut out for you."
*Example: "Let's get the ball rolling!"
|-
==get your foot in the door== <!--T:29-->
|'''hit the nail on the head'''
have a small opportunity that can become a big opportunity in the future, if you do good work.
|To "hit the nail on the head" means to do or say something 100% correctly.
 
|-
*Example: "Right now, I just want to get my foot in the door, so they can see what I can do. Next year I hope to start moving up in the company."
|'''in a nutshell'''
==get/be on the good side of someone== <!--T:30-->
|"In a nutshell" means in a few words.
If someone likes you, you are "on the good side" of that person.
|-
==get/have one's foot in the door==
|'''in full swing'''
To "get or have one's foot in the door" means to take a low-level position with a company with the goal of eventually getting a better position with the same company.
|If a project is "in full swing," it means that it has been completely started and that it is progressing or moving as fast as it ever will.
 
|-
*Example: "You've got a clever way of getting your foot in the door, and then we can't get it closed until the proposition is carried"
|'''in the black'''
==give someone a pat on the back== <!--T:31-->
|If a company is "in the black," it means that it is making a profit.
To "give someone a pat on the back" means to tell someone that they did a good job.
|-
 
|'''in the driver's seat'''
*Example: "The teacher patted all the students on the back for their good work."
|To be "in the driver's seat" means to be in control.
==give the thumbs down== <!--T:32-->
|-
To "give something or someone the thumbs down" means to deny approval.
|'''in the red'''
 
|If a company is "in the red," it means that is not profitable and is operating at a loss.
*Example: "The committee gave my suggestion the thumbs down."
|-
==give the thumbs up== <!--T:33-->
|'''keep one's eye on the ball'''
To "give something or someone the thumbs up" means to give approval.
|To "keep one's eye on the ball" means to give something one's full attention and to not lose focus.
 
|-
*Example: "We all gave Vincent's report the thumbs up"
|'''last straw'''
==go broke== <!--T:34-->
|The "last straw" means the last annoyance, disturbance, or betrayal which causes someone to give up, lose their patience, or become angry.
To "go broke" means to go bankrupt or to lose all the money a person or business had.
|-
 
|'''learn the ropes'''
*Example: "This company is going to go broke if nothing is done"
|To "learn the ropes" means to learn the basics of something.
==go down the drain== <!--T:35-->
|-
When someone wastes or loses something, it is said to "go down the drain."
|'''long shot'''
 
|A "long shot" is something that has a very low probability of happening.
*Example: "I'm scared I'm going to be out of a job, and my experience will be down the drain."
|-
==go the extra mile== <!--T:36-->
|'''loophole'''
To "go the extra mile" means to do more than what people expect.
|A legal "loophole" occurs if a law is unclear or omits information. This lack of legal clarity allows people or corporations to pay less in taxes or gain some other advantage.
 
|-
*Example: "The teacher goes the extra mile to help the weaker students understand."
|'''lose ground (opposite: gain ground)'''
==go through the roof== <!--T:37-->
|To "lose ground" means to lose some type of an advantage (market share, for example) to a competitor.
If something is "going through the roof," it means it is rapidly increasing.
|-
 
|'''lose-lose situation (or no-win situation)'''
*Example: "Prices for gasoline are going through the roof."
|A "lose-lose situation" is when there will be a negative outcome regardless of what decision is made.
==gray area== <!--T:38-->
|-
If something is in a "gray area," it means that it is something undefined and not easily categorized.
|'''nine-to-five'''
 
|A "nine-to-five" is a job during normal working hours. The term came into existence because many work days start at 9 a.m. and end at 5 p.m.
*Example: "There is a lot of gray area when it comes to how products are marketed."
|-
==ground-breaking== <!--T:39-->
|'''no brainer'''
If something is "ground-breaking," it means it is new and innovative.
|If a decision is really obvious or really easy to make, the decision is a "no brainer."
 
|-
*Example: "This expression goes back to the ground-breaking days of computers"
|'''no strings attached'''
==in a nutshell== <!--T:40-->
|If something is given without expecting anything in return, it is given with "no strings attached."
"In a nutshell" means in a few words.
|-
 
|'''no time to lose'''
*Example: "In a nutshell, I think he’s a genius"
|If there is "no time to lose," it means that there is a lot of pressure to finish something quickly.
==in full swing== <!--T:41-->
|-
If a project is "in full swing," it means that it has been completely started and that it is progressing or moving as fast as it ever will.
|'''not going to fly'''
 
|If a solution isn't effective, we can say that it "isn't going to fly."
*Example: "In the summermonths, things really get into full swing around here"
|-
==in the black== <!--T:42-->
|'''off the top of one's head'''
If a company is "in the black," it means that it is making a profit.
|If someone says something "off the top of their head," it means that they give a response without thinking about it much or doing any research on the subject.
==in the driver's seat==
|-
To be "in the driver's seat" means to be in control.
|'''on a roll'''
 
|If someone is "on a roll," it means that he or she has had several successes in a row.
<!--T:90-->
|-
*Example: "I wish my accounts were in the black."
|'''on the ball'''
 
|To be "on the ball" means to be alert and aware of things.
==in the red== <!--T:43-->
|-
If a company is "in the red," it means that is not profitable and is operating at a loss.
|'''on the same page page'''
 
|If two people are "on the same page," they are in agreement about something.
*Example: "I wish my accounts were not in the red"
|-
==keep one's eye on the ball== <!--T:91-->
|'''on top of something'''
To "keep one's eye on the ball" means to give something one's full attention and to not lose focus.
|To be "on top of something" means to be in control of a situation and aware of changes.
 
|-
==last straw== <!--T:44-->
|'''on your toes'''
The "last straw" means the last annoyance, disturbance, or betrayal which causes someone to give up, lose their patience, or become angry.
|To be "on your toes" means to be alert.
 
|-
*Example: "If you want to get along in this office, you're going tohave to keep your eye on the ball."
|'''out in the open'''
==learn the ropes== <!--T:45-->
|If something is "out in the open," it is public knowledge and not hidden from people.
To "learn the ropes" means to learn the basics of something.
|-
 
|'''out of the loop (opposite: in the loop)'''
*Example: "It'll take some time for the new receptionist to learn the ropes."
|To be "out of the loop" means to not know something that a select group of people knows. The opposite, to be "in the loop," means to be part of a select group with knowledge that others do not have.
==long shot== <!--T:46-->
|-
A "long shot" is something that has a very low probability of happening.
|'''pink slip'''
 
|Someone who gets the "pink slip," has been fired by their employer.
<!--T:47-->
|-
*Example: "I know it's a long shot because of her busy schedule, but maybe I can convince her to help me."
|'''play hardball'''
 
|To "play hardball" means to be competitive in a cruel and merciless way. Playing hardball means doing anything possible to win.
==on a shoestring== <!--T:48-->
|-
with limited money.
|'''put all one's eggs in one basket'''
 
|To "put all one's eggs in one basket," means to rely on only one thing to bring success.
*Example: "They started their company on a shoestring and built it up to one of the largest companies in the world!"
|-
==rock the boat== <!--T:49-->
|'''put the cart before the horse'''
To "rock the boat" means to cause problems or disrupt a peaceful situation.
|To "put the cart before the horse" means to do or think about things in the wrong order.
 
|-
*Example: "Everything is going fine here. Please, don't rock the boat!"
|'''raise the bar'''
==round-the-clock== <!--T:50-->
|To "raise the bar" means to set the standards or expectations higher, usually by achieving or creating something better than what had previously existed.
"Round the clock" means 24 hours a day.
|-
 
|'''read between the lines'''
*Example: "This place is guarded around the clock."
|To "read between the lines" means to understand something that isn't communicated directly. Reading between the lines involves understanding what someone is implying or suggesting but not saying directly.
==run/go around in circles== <!--T:51-->
|-
To "run (or go) around in circles" means to do the same thing over and over again without getting any results.
|'''red tape'''
 
|"Red tape" refers to excessive rules, procedures, and regulations that make it difficult to accomplish something. We usually use "red tape" to talk about government requirements that create difficult, time-consuming barriers for people and businesses.
*Example: "The discussion kept going around in circles."
|-
==safe bet== <!--T:52-->
|'''rock the boat'''
A "safe bet" means something that will probably happen.
|To "rock the boat" means to cause problems or disrupt a peaceful situation.
 
|-
*Example: "He is a safe bet for re-election."
|'''round-the-clock'''
==In the same boat== <!--T:53-->
|"Round the clock" means 24 hours a day.
If people are in the same situation, they are in the "same boat."
|-
Example : "He was in the same boat as any other worker who had lost a job."
|'''run/go around in circles'''
==see eye to eye==
|To "run (or go) around in circles" means to do the same thing over and over again without getting any results.
To "see eye to eye" with someone means to agree with that person.
|-
 
|'''safe bet'''
*Example: "They don't always agree but when it comes to the most important things they see eye to eye."
|A "safe bet" means something that will probably happen.
==see something through== <!--T:54-->
|-
To "see something through" means to do something until it is finished.
|'''same boat'''
 
|If people are in the same situation, they are in the "same boat."
*Example: "Having come this far, he really wanted to see things through."
|-
==sever ties== <!--T:55-->
|'''second nature'''
To "sever ties" means to end a relationship.
|When someone does something so well that it seems like they were born knowing how to do it, we say that the activity is "second nature" to that person.
 
|-
*Example: " The company severed its ties with the CEO"
|'''see eye to eye'''
==shoot something down== <!--T:56-->
|To "see eye to eye" with someone means to agree with that person.
To "shoot something down" means to reject something, such as a proposal or idea.
|-
 
|'''see something through'''
*Example: "He raised a good point, but they shot him down immediately."
|To "see something through" means to do something until it is finished.
==sky's the limit== <!--T:57-->
|-
"The sky's the limit" if there is no limit to what can be achieved.
|'''sever ties'''
 
|To "sever ties" means to end a relationship.
*Example: "it seems like the sky is the limit for this talented man."
|-
==small talk== <!--T:58-->
|'''shoot something down'''
"Small talk" is conversation about unimportant topics that do not offend people (the weather, for example).
|To "shoot something down" means to reject something, such as a proposal or idea.
 
|-
*Example: "Meetings often starts with small talks."
|'''sky's the limit'''
==smooth/clear sailing== <!--T:59-->
|"The sky's the limit" if there is no limit to what can be achieved.
"Smooth sailing" is a term used to describe a situation where success is achieved without difficulties.
|-
 
|'''small talk'''
*Example: "Once you've passed your exam, it will be smooth sailing to graduation"
|"Small talk" is conversation about unimportant topics that do not offend people (the weather, for example).
==snail mail== <!--T:60-->
|-
"Snail mail" is the term used for the traditional mail that goes through the post office.
|'''smooth/clear sailing'''
==stand one's ground==
|"Smooth sailing" is a term used to describe a situation where success is achieved without difficulties.
To "stand one's ground" means to not change one's opinion or position.
|-
 
|'''snail mail'''
<!--T:92-->
|"Snail mail" is the term used for the traditional mail that goes through the post office.
*Example: "He tried to confuse me during the meeting, but Imanaged to stand my ground"
|-
 
|'''stand one's ground'''
==start off on the right foot== <!--T:61-->
|To "stand one's ground" means to not change one's opinion or position.
To "start off on the right foot" means to start something in a positive way.
|-
 
|'''start off on the right foot'''
*Example: "We started our meetings on time and started off on the right foot."
|To "start off on the right foot" means to start something in a positive way.
==start off on the wrong foot== <!--T:62-->
|-
To "start off on the wrong foot" means to start something in a negative way.
|'''start off on the wrong foot'''
 
|To "start off on the wrong foot" means to start something in a negative way.
*Example: "I don't want to start off on the wrong foot today!"
|-
==take the bull by the horns== <!--T:63-->
|'''state of the art'''
To "take the bull by the horns" means to directly confront a difficult situation.
|Something that is "state of the art" is modern and technologically advanced.
 
|-
*Example: "Let's take the bull by the horns and get this done!"
|'''take something lying down'''
==talk someone into something== <!--T:64-->
|To "take something lying down" means to accept something unpleasant without fighting back.
To "talk someone into something" means to convince someone to do something.
|-
 
|'''take the bull by the horns'''
*Example: "He talked me into working for him."
|To "take the bull by the horns" means to directly confront a difficult situation.
==talk someone out of something== <!--T:65-->
|-
To "talk someone out of something" means to convince someone not to do something.
|'''talk someone into something'''
 
|To "talk someone into something" means to convince someone to do something.
*Example: "He talked me out of working for him."
|-
==the elephant in the room== <!--T:66-->
|'''talk someone out of something'''
"The elephant in the room" refers to an obvious problem or controversial issue that no one wants to talk about.
|To "talk someone out of something" means to convince someone not to do something.
 
|-
*Example: "Increasing poverty in the world is the western politicians’ elephant in the room."
|'''the elephant in the room'''
==think big== <!--T:67-->
|"The elephant in the room" refers to an obvious problem or controversial issue that no one wants to talk about.
To "think big" means to have ambitious goals and big plans for the future.
|-
 
|'''think big'''
*Example: "To start own business, you should think big."
|To "think big" means to have ambitious goals and big plans for the future.
==think outside the box== <!--T:68-->
|-
To "think outside the box" means to think of creative, unconventional solutions instead of common ones.
|'''think outside the box'''
 
|To "think outside the box" means to think of creative, unconventional solutions instead of common ones.
<!--T:69-->
|-
*Example: "You won't come up with new ideas until you think outside the box."
|'''throw in the towel'''
 
|To "throw in the towel" means to quit.
==throw in the towel== <!--T:70-->
|-
To "throw in the towel" means to quit.
|'''time's up'''
 
|"Time's up" means that the time for something or someone has ended.
*Example: "She threw in the towel and left."
|-
==time's up== <!--T:71-->
|'''touch base'''
"Time's up" means that the time for something or someone has ended.
|To "touch base" means to make contact with someone.
 
|-
<!--T:72-->
|'''twist someone's arm'''
*Example: "Your time's up, and you have to leave now"
|To "twist someone's arm" means to persuade or convince someone to do something that he or she does not want to do.
 
|-
==touch base== <!--T:73-->
|'''under the table'''
To "touch base" means to make contact with someone.
|Something done secretly (and usually illegally) in the business world is done "under the table."
 
|-
<!--T:74-->
|'''up in the air'''
*Example: "I need to touch base with Pat on this matter."
|If something is undecided, it is "up in the air."
 
|-
==under the table== <!--T:75-->
|'''uphill battle'''
Something done secretly (and usually illegally) in the business world is done "under the table."
|Something that is difficult to achieve because of obstacles and difficulties is an "uphill battle."
 
|-
<!--T:76-->
|'''upper hand'''
*Example: "They probably pay them under the table so they won't have pay tax on it."
|If someone has an advantage over someone else, he or she has the "upper hand."
 
|-
==up in the air== <!--T:77-->
|'''white collar'''
If something is undecided, it is "up in the air."
|A "white collar worker" is someone who works in an office (customer service, management, sales, etc.). The opposite of a white collar worker is a "blue collar worker." A blue collar worker is someone who works with his hands (manufacturing, construction, maintenance, etc.). "White collar" (and "blue collar") can also be used to describe a job, position, or place.
==uphill battle==
|-
Something that is difficult to achieve because of obstacles and difficulties is an "uphill battle."
|'''win-win situation'''
 
|A "win-win situation" is a situation where everyone involved gains something.
<!--T:78-->
|-
*Example: "Things were kind of up in the air the last time we met."
|'''word of mouth'''
 
|If something spreads by "word of mouth," people hear about it through informal conversation with friends, family members, acquaintances, etc.
==upper hand== <!--T:79-->
|-
If someone has an advantage over someone else, he or she has the "upper hand."
|'''writing on the wall'''
 
|The "writing on the wall" refers to the evidence and clues that something (usually negative) is going to happen.
<!--T:80-->
|-
*Example: "He is always trying to get the upper hand on others"
|'''yes man'''
 
|A "yes man" is someone who always agrees with his or her superiors.
==win-win situation== <!--T:81-->
|-
A "win-win situation" is a situation where everyone involved gains something.
|'''24/7'''
 
|"24/7" means 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
<!--T:82-->
|}
*Example: "We have to come up with a win-win proposition."
 
==word of mouth== <!--T:83-->
If something spreads by "word of mouth," people hear about it through informal conversation with friends, family members, acquaintances, etc.
 
<!--T:84-->
*Example: "We could use word of mouth marketing as a cheap way to get our product known."
 
==writing on the wall== <!--T:85-->
The "writing on the wall" refers to the evidence and clues that something (usually negative) is going to happen.
 
<!--T:86-->
*Example: "As the CEO, he should have seen the handwriting on the wall and come up with an alternative idea."
 
==yes man== <!--T:87-->
A "yes man" is someone who always agrees with his or her superiors.
 
<!--T:88-->
*Example: "You really cannot trust what he might say in front of the boss. Everyone knows that he is just a yes man."
 
 
<!--T:89-->
{{#seo:
|title=English phrases useful for business
|keywords=sentenses, idioms, expressions, words, vocabulary, jobs, business, deals, work
|description=In this class we will teach you essential phrases to use when doing business or working in English.
        |og:image=https://polyglotclub.com/wiki/images/f/f5/English-business-vocabulary.png
}}
</translate>
 
[[Category: English/Advanced]]
[[Category: English/Intermediate]]
 
==Related Lessons==
* [[Language/English/Vocabulary/Useful-Sentenses|Useful Sentenses]]
* [[Language/English/Vocabulary/Top-Job-Interview-Questions|Top Job Interview Questions]]
* [[Language/English/Vocabulary/Makeup|Makeup]]
* [[Language/English/Vocabulary/Altogether-and-all-together|Altogether and all together]]
* [[Language/English/Vocabulary/Diminutives|Diminutives]]
* [[Language/English/Vocabulary/Parts-of-the-Body|Parts of the Body]]
* [[Language/English/Vocabulary/(a)round-and-about|(a)round and about]]
* [[Language/English/Vocabulary/Best-Songs-to-Learn|Best Songs to Learn]]
* [[Language/English/Vocabulary/Commonly-Confused-Words|Commonly Confused Words]]
* [[Language/English/Vocabulary/Phrasal-Verbs-with-OFF|Phrasal Verbs with OFF]]

Latest revision as of 17:15, 26 February 2023

English-business-vocabulary.png

In today's lesson you will learn some essential vocabulary to help you in the business English world. To get ahead in this world, it’s important to know the language you will be using every day.

I hope you find this guide helpful!

Feel free to edit and add more phrases and examples. You can also leave comments below.

an old hand[edit | edit source]

a person who has long experience, especially in one place.

  • Example: "He can help us set up a company in Paris. He's been working in France for many years and speaks French fluently. He's an old France hand."

ASAP[edit | edit source]

"ASAP" is an acronym for "as soon as possible.

  • Example: "I'm in a meeting now, but I'll call you back asap."

in the 11th hour[edit | edit source]

very late, at the very last minute.

  • Example: "The Director reached an agreement in the 11th hour."

back to square one[edit | edit source]

To go "back to square one" means to start something over again.

  • Example: "If they do not accept our deal, we will be back to square one."

backroom deal[edit | edit source]

A "backroom deal" is an agreement or decision that is made without the public knowing about it.

  • Example: "I don' t care what backroom deal he made!"

ballpark number/figure[edit | edit source]

A "ballpark number" is a very inexact estimate.

  • Example: "I know you can't tell me exactly the date, but can you give a ballpark estimate?"

behind someone's back[edit | edit source]

To do something "behind someone's back" means to do something without someone's knowledge and in an unfair way.

  • Example: "it's not right to talk about people behind their backs."

behind the scenes[edit | edit source]

What happens in secret or not in front of the general public is said to happen "behind the scenes."

  • Example: "He exerted some behind-the-scenes influence when the project was being planned."

bring to the table[edit | edit source]

whatever you can possibly offer.

  • Example: "I will meet with Teacher Joe's new company to show him what we can bring to the table."

carve out a niche[edit | edit source]

find a special market that you can control.

  • Example: "To succeed in this competitive world, you have to focus on part of it. Try to carve out a niche and be number one in that are."

a deadline[edit | edit source]

the latest date by which something should be finished.

  • Example: "The deadline for handing in our essays is 5:00 this Monday"

deep pockets[edit | edit source]

have a lot of money.

  • Example: "If there is a price war, we won't win because we don't have deep enough pockets."

down time[edit | edit source]

when equipment of facilities are not available, so you cannot work.

  • Example: "There will probably be a lot of down time at the conference, so I'm bringing a lot of paperwork."

easy come, easy go[edit | edit source]

"Easy come, easy go," is an expression used to communicate that something gained easily is also lost easily.

  • Example: "it's easy come, easy go, really, because I've just lost a small amount of money. "

fifty-fifty[edit | edit source]

"Fifty-fifty" means something is divided equally -- 50% for one party, 50% for the other party.

  • Example: "There is a fifty-fifty chance of this happening"

free ride[edit | edit source]

get benefit at no cost.

  • Example: "Of course we should make them pay for our travel expenses. WHy should we give them a free ride?"

from day one[edit | edit source]

from the beginning.

  • Example: "Teacher Joe has been providing the best English-learning web site from day one!"

from the ground up[edit | edit source]

If you start a business, project, or something else from zero, you start it "from the ground up."

  • Example: "He must plan his sales campaign carefully from the ground up."

game plan[edit | edit source]

A "game plan" is a strategy or plan.

  • Example: "Part of their game plan is to expand into China"

get back in/into the swing of things[edit | edit source]

To "get back in/into the swing of things" means to get used to doing something again after having a break from that activity.

  • Example: "He only started work last week, but he quickly got into the swing of things."

get down to business[edit | edit source]

To "get down to business" means to stop making small talk and start talking about serious topics related to business.

  • Example: "As you have a lot to do, you better get down to business."

get something off the ground[edit | edit source]

To "get something off the ground" means to start a project or business.

  • Example: "It is my job to get this project off the ground."

get the ball rolling[edit | edit source]

To "get the ball rolling" means to start something (a project, for example).

  • Example: "Let's get the ball rolling!"

get your foot in the door[edit | edit source]

have a small opportunity that can become a big opportunity in the future, if you do good work.

  • Example: "Right now, I just want to get my foot in the door, so they can see what I can do. Next year I hope to start moving up in the company."

get/be on the good side of someone[edit | edit source]

If someone likes you, you are "on the good side" of that person.

get/have one's foot in the door[edit | edit source]

To "get or have one's foot in the door" means to take a low-level position with a company with the goal of eventually getting a better position with the same company.

  • Example: "You've got a clever way of getting your foot in the door, and then we can't get it closed until the proposition is carried"

give someone a pat on the back[edit | edit source]

To "give someone a pat on the back" means to tell someone that they did a good job.

  • Example: "The teacher patted all the students on the back for their good work."

give the thumbs down[edit | edit source]

To "give something or someone the thumbs down" means to deny approval.

  • Example: "The committee gave my suggestion the thumbs down."

give the thumbs up[edit | edit source]

To "give something or someone the thumbs up" means to give approval.

  • Example: "We all gave Vincent's report the thumbs up"

go broke[edit | edit source]

To "go broke" means to go bankrupt or to lose all the money a person or business had.

  • Example: "This company is going to go broke if nothing is done"

go down the drain[edit | edit source]

When someone wastes or loses something, it is said to "go down the drain."

  • Example: "I'm scared I'm going to be out of a job, and my experience will be down the drain."

go the extra mile[edit | edit source]

To "go the extra mile" means to do more than what people expect.

  • Example: "The teacher goes the extra mile to help the weaker students understand."

go through the roof[edit | edit source]

If something is "going through the roof," it means it is rapidly increasing.

  • Example: "Prices for gasoline are going through the roof."

gray area[edit | edit source]

If something is in a "gray area," it means that it is something undefined and not easily categorized.

  • Example: "There is a lot of gray area when it comes to how products are marketed."

ground-breaking[edit | edit source]

If something is "ground-breaking," it means it is new and innovative.

  • Example: "This expression goes back to the ground-breaking days of computers"

in a nutshell[edit | edit source]

"In a nutshell" means in a few words.

  • Example: "In a nutshell, I think he’s a genius"

in full swing[edit | edit source]

If a project is "in full swing," it means that it has been completely started and that it is progressing or moving as fast as it ever will.

  • Example: "In the summermonths, things really get into full swing around here"

in the black[edit | edit source]

If a company is "in the black," it means that it is making a profit.

in the driver's seat[edit | edit source]

To be "in the driver's seat" means to be in control.

  • Example: "I wish my accounts were in the black."

in the red[edit | edit source]

If a company is "in the red," it means that is not profitable and is operating at a loss.

  • Example: "I wish my accounts were not in the red"

keep one's eye on the ball[edit | edit source]

To "keep one's eye on the ball" means to give something one's full attention and to not lose focus.

last straw[edit | edit source]

The "last straw" means the last annoyance, disturbance, or betrayal which causes someone to give up, lose their patience, or become angry.

  • Example: "If you want to get along in this office, you're going tohave to keep your eye on the ball."

learn the ropes[edit | edit source]

To "learn the ropes" means to learn the basics of something.

  • Example: "It'll take some time for the new receptionist to learn the ropes."

long shot[edit | edit source]

A "long shot" is something that has a very low probability of happening.

  • Example: "I know it's a long shot because of her busy schedule, but maybe I can convince her to help me."

on a shoestring[edit | edit source]

with limited money.

  • Example: "They started their company on a shoestring and built it up to one of the largest companies in the world!"

rock the boat[edit | edit source]

To "rock the boat" means to cause problems or disrupt a peaceful situation.

  • Example: "Everything is going fine here. Please, don't rock the boat!"

round-the-clock[edit | edit source]

"Round the clock" means 24 hours a day.

  • Example: "This place is guarded around the clock."

run/go around in circles[edit | edit source]

To "run (or go) around in circles" means to do the same thing over and over again without getting any results.

  • Example: "The discussion kept going around in circles."

safe bet[edit | edit source]

A "safe bet" means something that will probably happen.

  • Example: "He is a safe bet for re-election."

In the same boat[edit | edit source]

If people are in the same situation, they are in the "same boat." Example : "He was in the same boat as any other worker who had lost a job."

see eye to eye[edit | edit source]

To "see eye to eye" with someone means to agree with that person.

  • Example: "They don't always agree but when it comes to the most important things they see eye to eye."

see something through[edit | edit source]

To "see something through" means to do something until it is finished.

  • Example: "Having come this far, he really wanted to see things through."

sever ties[edit | edit source]

To "sever ties" means to end a relationship.

  • Example: " The company severed its ties with the CEO"

shoot something down[edit | edit source]

To "shoot something down" means to reject something, such as a proposal or idea.

  • Example: "He raised a good point, but they shot him down immediately."

sky's the limit[edit | edit source]

"The sky's the limit" if there is no limit to what can be achieved.

  • Example: "it seems like the sky is the limit for this talented man."

small talk[edit | edit source]

"Small talk" is conversation about unimportant topics that do not offend people (the weather, for example).

  • Example: "Meetings often starts with small talks."

smooth/clear sailing[edit | edit source]

"Smooth sailing" is a term used to describe a situation where success is achieved without difficulties.

  • Example: "Once you've passed your exam, it will be smooth sailing to graduation"

snail mail[edit | edit source]

"Snail mail" is the term used for the traditional mail that goes through the post office.

stand one's ground[edit | edit source]

To "stand one's ground" means to not change one's opinion or position.

  • Example: "He tried to confuse me during the meeting, but Imanaged to stand my ground"

start off on the right foot[edit | edit source]

To "start off on the right foot" means to start something in a positive way.

  • Example: "We started our meetings on time and started off on the right foot."

start off on the wrong foot[edit | edit source]

To "start off on the wrong foot" means to start something in a negative way.

  • Example: "I don't want to start off on the wrong foot today!"

take the bull by the horns[edit | edit source]

To "take the bull by the horns" means to directly confront a difficult situation.

  • Example: "Let's take the bull by the horns and get this done!"

talk someone into something[edit | edit source]

To "talk someone into something" means to convince someone to do something.

  • Example: "He talked me into working for him."

talk someone out of something[edit | edit source]

To "talk someone out of something" means to convince someone not to do something.

  • Example: "He talked me out of working for him."

the elephant in the room[edit | edit source]

"The elephant in the room" refers to an obvious problem or controversial issue that no one wants to talk about.

  • Example: "Increasing poverty in the world is the western politicians’ elephant in the room."

think big[edit | edit source]

To "think big" means to have ambitious goals and big plans for the future.

  • Example: "To start own business, you should think big."

think outside the box[edit | edit source]

To "think outside the box" means to think of creative, unconventional solutions instead of common ones.

  • Example: "You won't come up with new ideas until you think outside the box."

throw in the towel[edit | edit source]

To "throw in the towel" means to quit.

  • Example: "She threw in the towel and left."

time's up[edit | edit source]

"Time's up" means that the time for something or someone has ended.

  • Example: "Your time's up, and you have to leave now"

touch base[edit | edit source]

To "touch base" means to make contact with someone.

  • Example: "I need to touch base with Pat on this matter."

under the table[edit | edit source]

Something done secretly (and usually illegally) in the business world is done "under the table."

  • Example: "They probably pay them under the table so they won't have pay tax on it."

up in the air[edit | edit source]

If something is undecided, it is "up in the air."

uphill battle[edit | edit source]

Something that is difficult to achieve because of obstacles and difficulties is an "uphill battle."

  • Example: "Things were kind of up in the air the last time we met."

upper hand[edit | edit source]

If someone has an advantage over someone else, he or she has the "upper hand."

  • Example: "He is always trying to get the upper hand on others"

win-win situation[edit | edit source]

A "win-win situation" is a situation where everyone involved gains something.

  • Example: "We have to come up with a win-win proposition."

word of mouth[edit | edit source]

If something spreads by "word of mouth," people hear about it through informal conversation with friends, family members, acquaintances, etc.

  • Example: "We could use word of mouth marketing as a cheap way to get our product known."

writing on the wall[edit | edit source]

The "writing on the wall" refers to the evidence and clues that something (usually negative) is going to happen.

  • Example: "As the CEO, he should have seen the handwriting on the wall and come up with an alternative idea."

yes man[edit | edit source]

A "yes man" is someone who always agrees with his or her superiors.

  • Example: "You really cannot trust what he might say in front of the boss. Everyone knows that he is just a yes man."


Related Lessons[edit | edit source]