English for professionals in international companies
Business English Vocabulary: 200 Key English Terms
Business English is the shared working language of international companies: the words you need to run a meeting, write a clear email, present results and agree a deal with colleagues in other countries. Managers, engineers, sales teams and assistants use these terms every day, and knowing the fixed phrases is often more useful than knowing rare words.
200 terms
11 topics
108 core terms
411 example sentences
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No account needed. Read the meaning, see where the term is used, then study the examples. Click any word in the lesson for help. You can also select a word and press Alt + Enter.
Meetings
agenda
noun
Meaning
A list of the topics that will be discussed in a meeting, usually in the order they will be covered and shared with attendees beforehand.
Where you use it
Sent before the meeting or with the invite. You set, share, circulate or stick to an agenda, and add items to it. In British and European companies the last item is often AOB (any other business).
Examples
I've attached the agenda for Thursday's meeting. Let me know if you want to add anything.
We're running out of time, so let's stick to the agenda.
Budget approval is the first item on the agenda.
Usage note
False friend: an agenda is not a planner or diary (Turkish 'ajanda'). For that, English uses planner or, in British English, diary.
Common phrases
set the agenda · circulate the agenda · stick to the agenda · item on the agenda · hidden agenda
The official written record of a meeting, listing who attended, what was discussed, what was decided and who will do what next.
Where you use it
Always plural in this meaning. Someone takes the minutes during the meeting and circulates them afterwards; at the next meeting the group may approve them. Boards and committees keep formal minutes; teams also say 'meeting notes'.
Examples
Could you take the minutes today? Elif is on holiday.
I'll send the minutes to everyone by the end of the day.
According to the minutes, we agreed to review the budget in March.
Usage note
Nothing to do with time here: 'take the minutes' means write the record of the meeting, not 'take a few minutes'.
Common phrases
take the minutes · circulate the minutes · approve the minutes · meeting minutes
A specific task agreed in a meeting, with one person responsible for it and usually a due date.
Where you use it
Listed at the end of meeting notes or minutes. Teams assign, own, track and close action items, and the next meeting often starts by going through the open ones. British English also says 'action points'.
Examples
Let's go through last week's action items before we start.
The action item on supplier prices is still open; Burak owns it.
Common phrases
assign an action item · own an action item · open action items · close an action item
To finish a meeting, discussion or piece of work, usually by summarizing the main points and agreeing on the next steps.
Where you use it
Common in meetings: 'Let's wrap up', 'We need to wrap up in five minutes', 'To wrap up, …'. The noun wrap-up means a final summary or a closing session.
Examples
We're almost out of time, so let's wrap up and agree on the next steps.
I'd like to wrap up the project by the end of June.
Common phrases
wrap up the meeting · wrap things up · let's wrap up · wrap-up session
A short summary of the main points of a meeting, call or discussion, given at the end or sent afterwards. Also used as a verb.
Where you use it
Short for recapitulate, but the long form is rare at work. People say 'Let me recap', 'To recap, …' and send a recap email after a call. It is less formal than minutes.
Examples
Let me quickly recap what we agreed before we finish.
I'll send a short recap of the call with the action items.
Common phrases
a quick recap · recap email · to recap · send a recap
A regular private meeting between two people, usually a manager and a team member, to discuss work, progress, problems and development.
Where you use it
Often written 1:1 or 1-on-1. Many managers hold weekly or biweekly one-on-ones with each direct report. British English also says one-to-one. It works as an adjective too: a one-on-one meeting.
Examples
I have my weekly one-on-one with my manager on Tuesdays.
Let's discuss your promotion in our next one-on-one.
Common phrases
weekly one-on-one · have a one-on-one · one-on-one meeting · skip-level one-on-one
To look at or discuss something carefully, point by point, in order to check it, explain it or understand it.
Where you use it
Common in meetings and reviews: 'Let's go over the numbers', 'Can we go over the contract once more?' Neutral and informal. Similar to 'review' and 'run through'.
Examples
Before we sign, let's go over the payment terms one more time.
I'll go over the slides with you tomorrow morning.
Usage note
'Go over budget' and 'go over time' have a different meaning: to exceed the limit.
Common phrases
go over the numbers · go over the details · go over the agenda · go over it again
A person who takes part in a meeting, conference, training session or other event.
Where you use it
Used in invitations, minutes and event planning: 'list of attendees', 'Attendees: Ali, Sara, Tom'. Participant is close in meaning but suggests more active involvement. The stress is on the last syllable.
Examples
The minutes should list all attendees and apologies.
We expect around 200 attendees at the conference.
Common phrases
list of attendees · meeting attendees · conference attendees · number of attendees
To lead a meeting by opening it, following the agenda, giving people turns to speak and keeping time. As a noun, the person who does this.
Where you use it
Common for formal meetings, committees and boards: 'Who's chairing today?', 'She chaired the board meeting.' Many organizations now prefer the noun 'chair' or 'chairperson' to 'chairman'.
Examples
Can you chair the meeting on Friday? I'll be travelling.
The steering committee is chaired by the COO.
Common phrases
chair a meeting · chair the committee · chair of the board · chairperson
The first meeting of a project or partnership, where the team and the client agree on goals, roles, scope and the timeline.
Where you use it
Also written 'kickoff meeting', especially in American English. The phrasal verb is 'kick off': 'We kick off the project on Monday.' It usually takes place soon after the contract is signed.
Examples
The kick-off meeting with the client is next Monday in Ankara.
At the kick-off meeting, we'll agree on the scope and who owns each workstream.
Common phrases
project kick-off meeting · hold a kick-off meeting · kick off the project · internal kick-off
A short, informal meeting or call to share updates and make sure people working on the same thing are coordinated. Also used as a verb.
Where you use it
Short for synchronize. Very common in tech and international teams: 'a quick sync', 'weekly sync', 'Let's sync up tomorrow', 'I'll sync with design and get back to you.'
Examples
Do you have ten minutes for a quick sync before the client call?
I'll sync with the design team and get back to you this afternoon.
Usage note
Pronounced like 'sink': the 'c' sounds like 'k'.
Common phrases
a quick sync · weekly sync · sync up · sync with someone
General agreement among all or most members of a group about a decision or an opinion.
Where you use it
Common in meetings and decision-making: reach a consensus, build consensus, 'There is a consensus that…'. In consensus-driven company cultures, decisions can take longer but get wider support.
Examples
We didn't reach a consensus, so the final decision is with the CEO.
There's a clear consensus in the team that we need a better CRM system.
Usage note
Spelled with an s in the middle: consensus, not 'concensus'.
Common phrases
reach a consensus · build consensus · general consensus · consensus on something
To continue a discussion later, outside the current meeting and usually only with the people it concerns, so that the meeting can move on.
Where you use it
A polite way to stop a long side discussion: 'Let's take this offline', 'Can we take that offline?' It has nothing to do with the internet. Often said by the person chairing the meeting.
Examples
This is getting quite technical. Shall we take it offline and update everyone tomorrow?
Ahmet and I will take the pricing question offline.
Common phrases
let's take this offline · take the discussion offline · take it offline with someone
Comments about how good or useful someone's work, idea or performance is, given so that it can be improved.
Where you use it
Used in every part of working life: you give, get, ask for and act on feedback. Managers talk about positive and constructive feedback, and teams collect feedback from clients after a project.
Examples
Thanks for the draft. I've added some feedback in the comments.
The client's feedback on the new design was very positive.
Usage note
Uncountable: say 'some feedback' or 'a piece of feedback', not 'a feedback' or 'feedbacks'.
Common phrases
give feedback · get feedback · constructive feedback · feedback on something · act on feedback
To meet as a group and suggest many ideas quickly, without judging them at first, in order to solve a problem or plan something.
Where you use it
Common in planning meetings and workshops: 'Let's brainstorm some ideas', 'a brainstorming session'. It is also a noun: 'a quick brainstorm'. The usual rule is quantity first; ideas are judged later.
Examples
Let's spend ten minutes brainstorming names for the new product.
We brainstormed ways to cut delivery times and came up with twenty ideas.
Ideas, advice or information that someone contributes to a discussion, a decision or a piece of work.
Where you use it
A polite way to ask for opinions: 'I'd value your input', 'Any input on this?' You give, get or need input from someone. Like 'feedback', it is usually uncountable: 'some input', not 'an input'.
Examples
Thanks for your input, Kerem. That's a good point about the costs.
We need input from the sales team before we finalize the prices.
Common phrases
your input · input from someone · input on something · value someone's input
To stop someone while they are speaking, or to stop an activity for a short time, by saying or doing something.
Where you use it
In meetings, polite phrases make interrupting acceptable: 'Sorry to interrupt, but…', 'Can I just come in here?' To stop someone interrupting you, people say 'If I could just finish…'.
Examples
Sorry to interrupt, but we only have five minutes left.
The call was interrupted twice by a fire alarm test.
Common phrases
sorry to interrupt · interrupt someone · be interrupted · interrupt the meeting
A meeting or training session in which a group works actively on a topic or problem, rather than just listening.
Where you use it
Used for planning, design and training sessions: run, hold, facilitate or attend a workshop. A workshop usually includes exercises and group work. In a factory, a 'workshop' is a room where things are made or repaired.
Examples
We're running a two-day workshop to plan next year's product roadmap.
All new managers attend a workshop on giving feedback.
Common phrases
run a workshop · attend a workshop · half-day workshop · workshop on something · facilitate a workshop
To mention a subject, question or problem so that people can discuss it, for example in a meeting or an email.
Where you use it
Common partners: raise a point, a question, an issue, a concern or an objection. Problems are often 'raised with' a manager: 'You should raise it with HR'. In meetings: 'I'd like to raise something under any other business.'
Examples
Thanks for raising that point, Zeynep. Let's add it to the action items.
Several customers have raised concerns about the new payment system.
Usage note
As a noun in American English, 'a raise' is a pay increase (British English: 'a pay rise'). Don't confuse 'raise' (raise something) with 'rise' (go up by itself).
Common phrases
raise a point · raise an issue · raise concerns · raise a question · raise something with someone
A meeting for everyone in a company or department, usually led by senior management to share news, results and plans.
Where you use it
Common in tech and international companies, often monthly or quarterly and partly online. People also say 'an all-hands' or 'a town hall'. There is usually a Q&A at the end where staff can ask leaders questions.
Examples
The CEO will announce the new strategy at Friday's all-hands meeting.
The quarterly all-hands meeting will be streamed for colleagues in other offices.
Common phrases
company all-hands meeting · monthly all-hands · at the all-hands · all-hands Q&A
A very short daily team meeting, often about 15 minutes, where each person says what they did, what they will do next and what is blocking them.
Where you use it
It comes from agile software teams but is now used widely; people usually just say 'stand-up' or 'daily'. Participants originally stood to keep it short. Detailed problems are discussed after the meeting with the people involved.
Examples
Our stand-up meeting starts at 9:30, so please be on time.
Let's not try to fix the bug in the stand-up meeting; we'll take it offline.
Common phrases
daily stand-up meeting · morning stand-up · in the stand-up · skip the stand-up
Short for any other business: the last item on a meeting agenda, where people can raise topics that are not listed elsewhere.
Where you use it
Mostly British and used in more formal meetings: 'Is there any AOB?', 'Under AOB, I'd like to mention…'. The chair usually asks for AOB before closing the meeting. Important topics should go on the agenda instead.
Examples
Before we close, is there any AOB?
I've added the office move under AOB, as it came up yesterday.
Short for carbon copy: the email field for people who should see a message for information but are not expected to act on it. Also used as a verb.
Where you use it
Written CC or cc. As a verb: 'I'll cc my manager', 'She was cc'd on the email.' People in BCC (blind carbon copy) are hidden from the other recipients. People who must act go in the To field.
Examples
I'll cc Selin so she knows what we agreed.
Please cc me on all emails to the supplier.
Usage note
The past form is written cc'd or cc'ed: 'I cc'd the whole team.'
Common phrases
cc someone on an email · keep someone cc'd · in the CC field · remove someone from CC
A file, such as a document, spreadsheet or image, that is sent together with an email message.
Where you use it
You open, download, send or forget an attachment. Common phrases are 'see attachment', 'in the attachment' and 'the attached file'. Large files are often shared as a link instead of an attachment.
Examples
I can't open the attachment. Could you send it as a PDF?
Sorry, I forgot the attachment in my last email. Here it is.
The attachment is too large for our mail server, so I'll share a link instead.
Common phrases
open the attachment · send as an attachment · see attachment · forget the attachment
To contact someone again about something you discussed earlier, in order to check progress, ask for an answer or add information.
Where you use it
Very common in emails and meetings: you follow up on something and follow up with someone. The noun and adjective take a hyphen: a follow-up, a follow-up email, a follow-up meeting.
Examples
I'm just following up on my email from last week about the invoice.
I'll follow up with the legal team and get back to you tomorrow.
Let's schedule a follow-up meeting for next week.
Usage note
The verb is two words (follow up); the noun and adjective take a hyphen (a follow-up call).
Common phrases
follow up on a request · follow up with a client · follow-up email · follow-up meeting
Short for for your information: shows that a message is shared so the reader knows something, not because they must act on it.
Where you use it
Often placed at the start of a forwarded email or chat message: 'FYI, the client moved the meeting.' Neutral to informal in tone. In speech, 'just so you know' does the same job.
Examples
FYI, the office will be closed on Monday for the public holiday.
Forwarding this FYI; no action needed on your side.
Common phrases
just FYI · FYI only · forwarding FYI · for your information
A fixed, polite phrase used in emails to tell the reader that a file is attached to the message.
Where you use it
Followed by the document: 'Please find attached the invoice.' It is slightly formal; in everyday emails 'I've attached…' or 'Attached is…' sound more natural. 'Please find enclosed' is used for letters and parcels.
Examples
Please find attached the signed contract and the payment schedule.
Please find attached our offer for the second phase of the project.
Usage note
A word-for-word translation of 'Ekte bulabilirsiniz', such as 'You can find in the attachment', sounds unnatural; 'Please find attached…' or 'I've attached…' is what native writers use.
Common phrases
please find attached the report · please find the attached file · attached is · I've attached
To feel pleased about something that is going to happen; in emails, a polite way to close and show that you expect a reply or a meeting.
Where you use it
Classic email closings: 'I look forward to hearing from you' (formal) and 'Looking forward to seeing you on Monday' (friendlier). It is followed by a noun or an -ing form.
Examples
Thank you for your time. I look forward to hearing from you.
We're looking forward to working with your team on this project.
Usage note
'To' here is a preposition, so the verb takes -ing: 'look forward to hearing', not 'look forward to hear'.
Common phrases
look forward to hearing from you · looking forward to meeting you · look forward to your reply · really looking forward to
To send an email or message that you have received to another person, often with a short comment of your own.
Where you use it
Forwarded emails show 'Fwd:' or 'FW:' in the subject line. You forward something to someone, or forward someone something: 'I'll forward you the details.' Also used for calls: 'forward calls to my mobile'.
Examples
Could you forward me the client's original email?
I've forwarded your question to our finance team.
Common phrases
forward an email · forward something to someone · forward the invite · forwarded message
To include someone in an email, conversation or project so that they are informed and can follow what is happening.
Where you use it
Informal and common in emails: 'Looping in Mehmet, who handles logistics.' Related phrases: 'keep someone in the loop' (keep them informed) and 'out of the loop' (not informed).
Examples
Looping in Deniz from procurement, who can answer your question about prices.
Please loop me in if the client replies.
Don't worry, I'll keep you in the loop.
Common phrases
loop someone in · keep someone in the loop · out of the loop · looping in
A polite closing phrase written just before your name at the end of a professional email.
Where you use it
Neutral and safe for most work emails. 'Kind regards' is a little warmer and very common in the UK; 'Regards' alone can feel short; 'Best' and 'Thanks' are informal. A comma follows it, and your name goes on the next line.
Examples
Please let me know if you have any questions. Best regards, Zeynep
In a first email to a new client, 'Best regards' is safer than just 'Best'.
Usage note
Standard style capitalizes only the first word: 'Best regards', not 'Best Regards'. 'İyi çalışmalar' has no word-for-word equivalent; 'Have a good work' is not English.
Common phrases
kind regards · warm regards · with best regards · give my regards to
An early version of a document, email or plan that is not final yet and will probably be changed. As a verb, to write that first version.
Where you use it
You write, prepare, circulate, review or comment on a draft. Common phrases: first draft, rough draft, final draft, 'draft a contract'. Unsent emails are saved in the Drafts folder.
Examples
I've shared a first draft of the report. Comments are welcome until Wednesday.
Legal will draft the agreement once we've agreed on the price.
Usage note
British English uses the spelling 'draught' only for meanings like a current of air or beer from a barrel; documents are 'drafts' in both the UK and the US.
Common phrases
first draft · rough draft · final draft · draft a contract · comment on a draft
To answer an email so that your reply goes to the sender and to everyone else who received the original message, including people in CC.
Where you use it
Named after the email button. Useful when the whole group needs the answer; annoying when only the sender does. People write 'Please don't reply all' or 'Sorry for the reply-all.'
Examples
Please reply all so the whole project team sees the new date.
Someone hit reply all by mistake, and 300 people saw his comment about the budget.
Common phrases
hit reply all · reply all by mistake · reply-all chain · don't reply all
Away from work, for example on holiday or a business trip; also the automatic email reply that tells senders you are away.
Where you use it
Often shortened to OOO. You set up an out-of-office reply, also called an auto-reply, with your return date and a contact person. In shared calendars, 'OOO' marks the days you are away.
Examples
I'll be out of office from 10 to 14 August with limited access to email.
I got an out-of-office reply, so I called her colleague instead.
Usage note
Before a noun it takes hyphens: an out-of-office message.
Common phrases
out-of-office reply · set up an out of office · be out of office · OOO
A short section at the start of a report or proposal that gives the main findings and recommendations for busy readers.
Where you use it
Usually one page or less. Senior managers often read only the executive summary, so it has to make sense on its own. You write, include or skim an executive summary.
Examples
Please keep the executive summary to one page; the board won't read more.
The executive summary recommends closing two of the five warehouses.
Common phrases
write an executive summary · one-page executive summary · in the executive summary · executive summary of the report
Short for key performance indicator: a measurable value that shows how well a person, team or company is achieving an important goal.
Where you use it
Used in reports, dashboards and performance reviews: set KPIs, track KPIs, hit a KPI. Examples include monthly sales, customer satisfaction scores and delivery times. The plural is KPIs.
Examples
Our main KPI this year is customer retention, not new sales.
The monthly report shows that we hit four out of five KPIs.
Common phrases
set KPIs · track KPIs · hit a KPI · KPI dashboard · sales KPIs
To contact someone, usually by email or phone, to offer help, ask a question or start a business relationship.
Where you use it
Very common in emails, especially in American business culture: 'Feel free to reach out if you have questions', 'I'm reaching out about…'. You reach out to someone. Some readers find it overused; 'contact' or 'get in touch' are simpler.
Examples
I'm reaching out to see if you'd be interested in a short call next week.
If anything is unclear, please reach out to me or to Selin directly.
Common phrases
reach out to someone · feel free to reach out · reach out directly · reach out about something
The short line at the top of an email that tells the reader what the message is about before they open it.
Where you use it
A clear subject line helps busy people decide what to read first. Good ones are specific: 'Q3 report: final draft for approval' rather than just 'Report'. Some teams add tags such as 'URGENT' or 'Action required'.
Examples
Please put the order number in the subject line so we can find your email quickly.
His email had no subject line, so it went straight to my spam folder.
Common phrases
in the subject line · a clear subject line · change the subject line · the subject line reads
Short for blind carbon copy: an email field for people who should receive a copy without the other recipients seeing their address.
Where you use it
Used to protect privacy when you email a large group, or to keep someone informed quietly. It is also a verb: 'I'll bcc you on my reply'. Many people write it in lower case: bcc.
Examples
Please put all the customers in BCC so they can't see each other's email addresses.
I bcc'd my manager on the reply, just to keep her informed.
Usage note
If someone in BCC clicks 'reply all', everyone will see that they received the email.
Common phrases
put someone in BCC · bcc someone · BCC field · bcc the whole team
A standard phrase that opens a formal email or letter and states its purpose straight away, as in 'I am writing to confirm…'.
Where you use it
Used in the first line after the greeting: 'I am writing to confirm / to ask about / to apologise for…'. 'I'm writing to' is fine in most emails; 'I am writing in connection with…' is more formal.
Examples
Dear Mr Lee, I am writing to confirm our meeting on 14 May.
I'm writing to ask whether the training can be moved to the afternoon.
Usage note
Use the continuous form: 'I am writing to…', not 'I write to…'.
Common phrases
I am writing to confirm · I am writing to inform you · I am writing to ask · I am writing in connection with
The folder in an email program where new messages arrive; also used to mean all the emails waiting for your attention.
Where you use it
Common phrases: 'It's in your inbox', 'My inbox is full', 'I'm going through my inbox', 'inbox zero' (no emails left to deal with). 'It's sitting in my inbox' means you have not dealt with something yet.
Examples
I've just sent the contract; it should be in your inbox now.
After two weeks off, I have over 400 emails in my inbox.
Common phrases
in your inbox · check your inbox · full inbox · inbox zero · clear my inbox
A short report, often by email or in a meeting, that tells others how a project or task is progressing and what has changed.
Where you use it
Managers ask for status updates regularly: 'Can you send me a quick status update?', 'weekly status update'. A good one says what is done, what is next and any problems, often with green, amber and red labels.
Examples
Could everyone send me a short status update by Thursday afternoon?
In the weekly status update, the data migration is marked red because of the vendor delay.
Common phrases
send a status update · weekly status update · quick status update · status update on something
A polite formula, usually at the end of an email, that invites the reader to contact you or ask questions if they need anything.
Where you use it
The classic form is 'Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions'. It sounds formal and a little old-fashioned; in friendlier emails 'Feel free to get in touch' or 'Just let me know' is more common.
Examples
If you need any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Please do not hesitate to call our support line if the problem continues.
Usage note
Use 'to' + verb after it: 'hesitate to contact', not 'hesitate contacting'.
Common phrases
do not hesitate to contact me · do not hesitate to ask · do not hesitate to get in touch · don't hesitate to call
A series of emails or chat messages that reply to each other on the same subject and are grouped together.
Where you use it
Common in email and chat tools such as Slack and Teams: 'See the thread below', 'Reply in the thread', 'I've added Sam to the thread'. When a thread gets long and hard to follow, someone usually sends a short summary.
Examples
I've added Leyla to this thread because she handles the Spanish accounts.
The details are further down the thread, in Tom's email from Monday.
Usage note
It rhymes with 'red', and the 'th' is not pronounced like a Turkish 't'.
Common phrases
email thread · reply in the thread · add someone to the thread · start a thread · long thread
A formal way of saying 'according to' or 'as stated in', used to refer back to an earlier instruction, agreement or message.
Where you use it
Very common in emails: 'as per our conversation', 'as per the contract', 'as per your request'. It is correct but can sound stiff, and 'as per my last email' often sounds impatient. Simpler options: 'as we discussed', 'as you asked'.
Examples
As per our call this morning, I've attached the revised price list.
Payment will be made in two instalments, as per the contract.
Usage note
Don't add another preposition: 'as per the contract', not 'as per to the contract'.
Common phrases
as per our conversation · as per the contract · as per your request · as per my last email
One page of a presentation that is shown on a screen, usually with a title, short text, charts or images.
Where you use it
Presenters say 'Next slide, please', 'On this slide you can see…' and 'I'll skip this slide.' You add, prepare, share or go back to a slide. A full set of slides is a deck or presentation.
Examples
On this slide you can see our sales by region for the last quarter.
Could you go back one slide? I missed the numbers.
Let's keep it to ten slides; the board only has twenty minutes.
Common phrases
next slide · title slide · go back a slide · skip a slide · slide deck
A set of presentation slides, usually prepared in PowerPoint, Keynote or Google Slides and shared as a file.
Where you use it
Informal but standard in offices: 'Can you send me the deck?', 'I'm updating the deck for Monday.' Types include pitch deck, sales deck and board deck. A deck is often sent to be read without a presenter.
Examples
I'll share the deck after the meeting so you can go through it again.
The pitch deck needs a slide on our competitors.
Common phrases
slide deck · pitch deck · send the deck · update the deck · sales deck
To explain something to someone step by step, often while showing it on a screen, so that they understand it fully.
Where you use it
Usually 'walk someone through something': 'Let me walk you through the proposal.' Common at the start of presentations and demos. The noun walkthrough means a step-by-step explanation or demo.
Examples
Let me walk you through the main changes in the new contract.
Could you walk the new hires through the expense process?
Common phrases
walk someone through · walk you through the slides · a quick walkthrough · walk through the process
Short for questions and answers: the part of a presentation, meeting or event when the audience can ask the speaker questions.
Where you use it
Usually comes at the end: 'We'll have ten minutes for Q&A.' Speakers say 'I'll take questions at the end' or 'Let's open it up for questions.' A written FAQ is different: it lists common questions with their answers.
Examples
There will be a short Q&A after the presentation.
Please save your questions for the Q&A at the end.
Common phrases
Q&A session · open the floor for Q&A · live Q&A · take questions
To draw attention to the most important points or results so that people notice and remember them. As a noun, the best or most important part.
Where you use it
Common in presentations and reports: 'I'd like to highlight three points', 'key highlights of the quarter'. Also literal: to highlight text in yellow in a document.
Examples
I'd like to highlight one risk before we move on.
The report highlights a 12% increase in online sales.
I've highlighted the changes in yellow.
Common phrases
highlight a risk · highlight the key points · key highlights · highlight in yellow
A printed or digital document given to the audience during or after a presentation, with the key points, figures or slides.
Where you use it
You prepare, print, give out or send a handout. Presenters say 'You'll find the figures in your handout.' Handout can also mean money or help given for free, often in a negative tone.
Examples
I'll give out the handout at the end so you can listen now instead of reading.
The handout includes the full price list and our contact details.
Common phrases
give out a handout · prepare a handout · in your handout · printed handout
A short item in a list that starts with a small dot or symbol, used on slides and in documents to present information clearly.
Where you use it
People say 'put it in bullet points', 'three bullet points per slide' and 'a bulleted list'. Bullet points are usually short phrases rather than full sentences.
Examples
Can you summarize the findings in three or four bullet points?
This slide has too many bullet points; let's split it into two.
Common phrases
in bullet points · bullet-point list · three bullet points · a bulleted list
The main idea, lesson or message that people should remember after a presentation, meeting or report.
Where you use it
Very common in presentations and meeting summaries: 'key takeaways', 'My main takeaway is…', 'What are the takeaways for our team?' Often used as the title of the final slide.
Examples
The key takeaway from today is that customers want faster delivery, not lower prices.
Could you send everyone three takeaways from the workshop?
Usage note
In British English a takeaway is also a meal bought to eat at home (American English: takeout).
Common phrases
key takeaways · main takeaway · takeaways from the meeting · three takeaways
To stop talking about one topic and start on the next one; used to guide listeners through a presentation or meeting.
Where you use it
A key signposting phrase: 'Let's move on to the budget', 'Moving on to the next point…', 'Before I move on, are there any questions?' Similar phrases: 'turn to' and 'go on to'.
Examples
If there are no more questions, let's move on to the sales figures.
Before I move on to the next slide, I'd like to stress one point.
Common phrases
move on to the next point · let's move on · moving on to · before I move on
A phrase that introduces a short summary of the main points at the end of a presentation, meeting or piece of writing.
Where you use it
Common at the end of presentations and reports. Similar phrases: 'To summarize', 'In summary', 'In short' and, more informally, 'So, basically…'. It is followed by the two or three key points.
Examples
To sum up, sales grew in every region except the Middle East.
So, to sum up: we need a decision on the budget by Friday.
Usage note
Turkish speakers often use 'shortly' for 'kısaca', but shortly means 'soon'. 'In short' or 'briefly' is correct.
Common phrases
sum up the discussion · sum up the main points · to summarize · in summary
A short, persuasive presentation or speech that tries to convince someone to buy a product, approve an idea or invest in a business.
Where you use it
Used in sales, marketing and startups: sales pitch, elevator pitch (a very short one), pitch deck. Also a verb: 'pitch an idea to management', 'pitch for a new client'.
Examples
We have twenty minutes to make our pitch to the investors.
She pitched the idea to the marketing director, and he loved it.
Common phrases
sales pitch · elevator pitch · pitch deck · pitch an idea · make a pitch
A detailed list or explanation that divides a total, such as a cost or a result, into its separate parts.
Where you use it
Common in reports, quotes and presentations: 'a cost breakdown', 'a breakdown by region', 'Can you send me a breakdown of the price?' The verb is 'break down', written as two words.
Examples
Could you send us a breakdown of the costs before we approve the budget?
This slide shows a breakdown of revenue by product line.
Usage note
It also means a failure of a machine or vehicle, or a sudden collapse: 'a breakdown in negotiations'.
Common phrases
cost breakdown · breakdown by region · detailed breakdown · break down the numbers
The group of people who listen to a presentation or speech, or the people a message, report or product is meant for.
Where you use it
Presenters are told to 'know your audience': adapt the level, language and detail to the people in the room. 'Target audience' is used for reports and marketing. You address, engage or lose an audience.
Examples
The audience will be mostly engineers, so you can skip the basic explanations.
Who is the target audience for this report: the board or the sales team?
Common phrases
know your audience · target audience · address the audience · engage the audience
A short general description of a subject or situation that gives the main facts without going into the details.
Where you use it
Typical at the start of a presentation or report: 'I'll give you a quick overview of the project', 'Here's an overview of today's agenda'. The overview comes first; the details and the breakdown follow.
Examples
Before we look at the numbers, let me give you a brief overview of the market.
The first slide is just an overview; the details are in the appendix.
Common phrases
give an overview · a brief overview · a quick overview · overview of the project
A picture that shows numbers or information in a visual way, such as a bar chart, a pie chart or a line chart.
Where you use it
Used constantly in slides and reports: 'As you can see from this chart…', 'The chart shows…'. Bar charts compare amounts, line charts show change over time and pie charts show the parts of a whole.
Examples
This chart shows our monthly sales over the last two years.
Could you turn these figures into a bar chart for the slides?
Usage note
'Chart' and 'graph' overlap, but a 'table' is rows and columns of numbers, not a picture.
Common phrases
bar chart · pie chart · line chart · the chart shows · org chart
A practical show of how a product, system or feature works, usually given to customers, managers or colleagues.
Where you use it
Short for 'demonstration'. You give, do, run or book a demo; a 'live demo' happens in real time. Sales teams also use it as a verb: 'demo a product'. Many presenters keep a recorded backup in case the live demo fails.
Examples
I'll give you a quick demo of the new dashboard after the slides.
The client asked for a live demo before signing the contract.
Common phrases
give a demo · live demo · product demo · book a demo · demo day
The general direction in which something is changing or developing over time, such as sales, prices or customer behaviour.
Where you use it
Key in presentations about numbers: an upward or downward trend, a long-term trend, 'the trend continues'. Describing trends uses verbs such as rise, fall, peak, level off and fluctuate.
Examples
As you can see, there's a clear upward trend in online orders since March.
If this trend continues, we'll reach our annual target by October.
Common phrases
upward trend · downward trend · market trend · the trend continues · reverse a trend
To give more details or explanation about something you have said, especially when someone asks you to.
Where you use it
Common in Q&A sessions, meetings and interviews: 'Could you elaborate on that?', 'Let me elaborate'. It is followed by 'on'. As an adjective, 'elaborate' /ɪˈlæbərət/ means detailed or complicated: 'an elaborate plan'.
Examples
You mentioned some risks with the supplier. Could you elaborate on that?
I won't elaborate on the technical details now, but they're all in the handout.
Common phrases
elaborate on something · could you elaborate · let me elaborate · elaborate further
A polite request for someone to be patient while you find something, fix a problem or finish what you are doing.
Where you use it
Very common in presentations and calls when technology is slow: 'Bear with me while I open the file', 'Bear with me for a second'. The plural form is 'bear with us'.
Examples
Bear with me a moment; my laptop isn't connecting to the projector.
If you could bear with me, I'll just find the latest version of the contract.
Usage note
It is spelled 'bear', not 'bare', although both words sound the same.
Common phrases
bear with me a moment · bear with me for a second · please bear with us · thanks for bearing with me
To stop rising or falling and stay at about the same level; used when describing figures on a graph.
Where you use it
A key verb for describing trends in presentations and reports, usually after a rise or fall: 'Sales rose sharply and then levelled off'. Similar phrases: 'flatten out', 'stabilize', 'remain steady'.
Examples
Costs went up in the first half of the year but have levelled off since July.
We expect demand to level off once the summer season is over.
Usage note
British spelling: levelled; American spelling: leveled.
Common phrases
level off at · begin to level off · sales levelled off · prices level off
To discuss something formally with another side in order to reach an agreement both can accept, for example on price or contract terms.
Where you use it
You negotiate a contract, a price or a salary, and negotiate with a supplier or client. The noun is negotiation: 'We're still in negotiations.' Something that can be changed is negotiable.
Examples
We managed to negotiate a 5% discount for orders over 1,000 units.
Legal is still negotiating the terms of the contract with the distributor.
Usage note
The 'ti' is pronounced 'sh': ne-GO-shee-ate.
Common phrases
negotiate a contract · negotiate a price · negotiate with a supplier · negotiating position · open to negotiation
An agreement between two or more sides, especially a business arrangement to buy, sell or work together on agreed terms.
Where you use it
Very frequent in sales and negotiations. You make, close, strike, sign or lose a deal; a deal can go through or fall through. 'It's a deal!' accepts an offer informally.
Examples
We closed the deal with the hotel chain last night.
The deal fell through when the supplier raised its prices.
If you can deliver by June, we have a deal.
Usage note
The verb 'deal with' means handle or take care of: 'I'll deal with the complaint.'
Common phrases
close a deal · strike a deal · the deal fell through · a good deal
A formal plan or offer, written or spoken, that is put forward for others such as a client or management to consider and accept.
Where you use it
You write, submit, present, accept or reject a proposal. A business proposal usually explains the problem, the solution, the price and the timeline. The verb is propose.
Examples
We need to submit the proposal to the client by the 15th.
Management liked the proposal but asked us to cut the budget by 10%.
Common phrases
submit a proposal · business proposal · accept a proposal · reject a proposal · draft proposal
An agreement in which each side gives up part of what it wanted so that both can accept the result. Also used as a verb.
Where you use it
You reach, find, suggest or agree to a compromise. As a verb: 'We compromised on the delivery date.' In negotiations it is a positive word that shows flexibility.
Examples
After two hours, we reached a compromise: a smaller discount but faster payment.
We're willing to compromise on price if you can commit to a two-year contract.
Usage note
As a verb it can also mean 'weaken or put at risk': 'compromise quality', 'compromise security'.
Common phrases
reach a compromise · find a compromise · compromise on price · willing to compromise
The conditions of an agreement or contract that both sides accept, such as the price, payment dates, delivery and responsibilities.
Where you use it
Always plural in this meaning. You agree on, negotiate, accept or break the terms. Common types: payment terms (for example 30 days), terms and conditions, terms of the contract.
Examples
Our standard payment terms are 30 days from the invoice date.
Both sides have agreed on the terms, so the contract can be signed next week.
Usage note
'In terms of' is a different expression meaning 'regarding': 'In terms of cost, option B is better.'
Common phrases
payment terms · terms and conditions · agree on the terms · on favourable terms · terms of the contract
The most important fact or the final position in a discussion; also a company's profit or loss, shown on the last line of its income statement.
Where you use it
In negotiations, 'What's your bottom line?' asks for the lowest price or final offer. In discussions: 'The bottom line is, we need more staff.' In finance: 'The cuts improved the bottom line.'
Examples
We can talk about delivery dates, but the bottom line is that we can't go below this price.
The new energy contract will have a direct impact on our bottom line.
Common phrases
the bottom line is · what's your bottom line · impact the bottom line · improve the bottom line
Describing a situation or agreement in which both sides gain something and nobody loses.
Where you use it
Common in negotiations and partnership talks: 'a win-win solution', 'This is a win-win for both companies.' Also used as a noun. Some people find it a cliché, but everyone understands it.
Examples
If you handle installation and we handle training, it's a win-win.
We're looking for a win-win agreement, not just the lowest price.
A new offer made in reply to an offer you have received, usually with a different price or different conditions.
Where you use it
You make, receive, accept or reject a counteroffer. Also written counter-offer, especially in the UK. Common in sales, purchasing, property and job offers, for example when an employer tries to keep someone who has resigned.
Examples
They rejected our first offer, but they came back with a counteroffer of €48,000.
We'll discuss their counteroffer internally and reply by Friday.
Common phrases
make a counteroffer · accept a counteroffer · reject a counteroffer · come back with a counteroffer
Something that one side agrees to give up or allow during a negotiation in order to reach an agreement.
Where you use it
You make, offer, ask for or win concessions. Negotiators often trade them: 'We can make a concession on price if you extend the contract.' Often used in the plural.
Examples
We're not willing to make any more concessions on the delivery schedule.
In return for a longer contract, the supplier made a small concession on price.
Usage note
In other contexts it can mean a reduced price for some groups (UK) or the right to run a business on someone else's premises.
Common phrases
make a concession · concession on price · win concessions · mutual concessions
A single issue or condition so important that, if it is not accepted, one side will refuse the whole deal.
Where you use it
Informal but common in negotiations, hiring and buying decisions: 'Price isn't a deal-breaker for us', 'Is the exclusivity clause a deal-breaker?' Also written dealbreaker.
Examples
A six-month payment period is a deal-breaker for us; we need payment within 60 days.
For many candidates, having no remote work at all is a deal-breaker.
Common phrases
a real deal-breaker · a deal-breaker for us · not a deal-breaker · potential deal-breaker
To reach an agreement by each side accepting part of what the other wants, for example by splitting a price difference.
Where you use it
Used in friendly negotiations: 'Can we meet halfway?', 'I'm willing to meet you halfway on the price.' Similar to 'split the difference' and 'find a middle ground'.
Examples
You asked for 15% and we offered 5%. Can we meet halfway at 10%?
If you can meet us halfway on delivery costs, we'll sign today.
Common phrases
meet someone halfway · meet halfway on the price · willing to meet halfway · split the difference
Offered or available for discussion in a negotiation or meeting; something that is 'off the table' is no longer being considered.
Where you use it
Common in negotiations: 'Our offer is still on the table', 'Everything is on the table', 'A price increase is off the table.' Turkish uses the same image with 'masada'.
Examples
Our offer is on the table until the end of the month.
At this stage, all options are on the table, including closing the factory.
Usage note
The verb 'table' differs: in British English 'table a proposal' means present it for discussion; in American English it means postpone discussing it.
Common phrases
still on the table · put an offer on the table · everything is on the table · off the table
A person or organization that pays a company or professional for services or advice, often over a long period.
Where you use it
'Client' is usual for services such as consulting, law, advertising, IT and agencies; 'customer' is usual for people who buy products in shops or online. You meet, win, lose and keep clients, and jobs that deal with them directly are 'client-facing'.
Examples
We're meeting the client on Thursday to present the new campaign.
She manages our three biggest clients in Germany.
Common phrases
meet a client · win a client · key client · client-facing · client meeting
A statement that you are willing to sell, buy, pay or do something under certain conditions, which the other side can accept or reject.
Where you use it
The basic word of negotiation: make, improve, accept, reject or withdraw an offer. A 'firm offer' will not change; a 'best and final offer' is the last one. It is also a verb: 'We can offer a 5% discount'.
Examples
Their first offer was too low, but we think they'll come back with a better one.
We've decided to accept the offer, provided delivery starts in March.
Usage note
Turkish 'teklif' covers both 'offer' and 'proposal'; a proposal is usually a longer written plan.
Common phrases
make an offer · accept an offer · reject an offer · final offer · job offer
A formal written agreement between two or more parties that sets out what each side must do and can be enforced by law.
Where you use it
You draw up, negotiate, sign, renew, break or terminate a contract. Employees can be 'on a fixed-term contract' or 'on a permanent contract'. Before signing, companies usually ask their legal team to review it.
Examples
The contract runs for three years and can be renewed for another two.
Legal still needs to review the contract before we sign it.
Usage note
As a noun, the stress is on the first syllable: CON-tract.
Common phrases
sign a contract · renew a contract · draw up a contract · terms of the contract · breach of contract
A written or spoken statement of the exact price a supplier will charge for a particular job, product or service.
Where you use it
Buyers ask for, get or compare quotes; suppliers give or send them. 'Quotation' is the more formal word. As a verb: 'They quoted us 5,000 euros'. A quote usually has an expiry date.
Examples
We've received three quotes for the new website, and Atlas is the cheapest.
Could you send us a quote for 500 units, including delivery?
Usage note
In general English, 'quote' also means repeating someone's exact words.
Common phrases
ask for a quote · get a quote · send a quote · quote for something · written quote
An amount or percentage taken off the usual price, for example for large orders, early payment or loyal customers.
Where you use it
In negotiations you ask for, offer, give or agree a discount: 'a 10% discount', 'a volume discount', 'a discount for early payment'. Sellers often give a discount only in return for something, such as a longer contract.
Examples
If you order more than 1,000 units, we can offer a 7% discount.
They agreed to a discount on condition that we sign a two-year contract.
Common phrases
offer a discount · volume discount · 10% discount · discount on something · early payment discount
To end a negotiation or leave a deal because the terms on offer are not acceptable to you.
Where you use it
A key idea in negotiation planning: know your 'walk-away point', the worst terms you will accept. 'We're prepared to walk away', 'They walked away from the deal'. Being ready to walk away gives you more power.
Examples
If they won't move on price, we should be ready to walk away.
The buyer walked away from the deal at the last minute.
Common phrases
walk away from the deal · walk away from the table · walk-away point · be prepared to walk away
A situation in which you accept less of one thing in order to get more of another, such as a lower price for a longer contract.
Where you use it
Used in negotiations and decisions: 'There's a trade-off between speed and quality', 'make a trade-off', 'What's the trade-off?' Managers often ask teams to explain the trade-offs before choosing an option.
Examples
The trade-off is simple: a lower price, but a three-year commitment.
We had to make some trade-offs between features and the launch date.
Common phrases
make a trade-off · a trade-off between X and Y · a fair trade-off · accept the trade-off
Interests, opinions or goals that two sides share, which can be used as a starting point for an agreement.
Where you use it
Usually with 'find', 'look for' or 'there is': 'Let's try to find some common ground'. Good negotiators often start with the common ground before moving on to the difficult points.
Examples
We disagree on price, but there's common ground on delivery and quality.
The mediator helped both sides find common ground.
Common phrases
find common ground · look for common ground · some common ground · common ground on something
Short for non-disclosure agreement: a contract in which people or companies promise not to share confidential information they receive.
Where you use it
Usually signed before sharing prices, plans or technical details with a possible partner, supplier or investor: 'sign an NDA', 'under NDA', 'mutual NDA' (both sides are protected). It is 'an NDA' because N is pronounced 'en'.
Examples
Before we share the technical drawings, we'll need you to sign an NDA.
I can't tell you the client's name; it's covered by the NDA.
Common phrases
sign an NDA · under NDA · mutual NDA · breach of the NDA
A phone or online call in which three or more people in different places talk together at the same time.
Where you use it
You set up, join, dial in to or host a conference call. Today most of them happen on video platforms, and people often just say 'call': 'I'm on a call', 'Let's get everyone on a call.'
Examples
We have a conference call with the Munich office at 10.
I'll send the dial-in details for the conference call this afternoon.
Common phrases
set up a conference call · join a conference call · host a conference call · dial-in details
To contact someone again later, usually to give them an answer or information that you do not have yet.
Where you use it
A standard phrase on calls and in emails: 'I'll get back to you on that', 'Sorry for not getting back to you sooner.' Useful when you need time to check something before you answer.
Examples
I don't have the exact figure right now, but I'll get back to you by tomorrow.
Sorry for not getting back to you sooner; it's been a busy week.
Usage note
'Get back to work' means return to work; 'get back to someone' means reply to them later.
Common phrases
get back to you on that · get back to someone by Friday · sorry for not getting back to you · get back to me
To let the other people on a video call see what is on your computer screen, such as slides, a document or an application.
Where you use it
One of the most frequent requests in online meetings: 'Can you share your screen?', 'Let me share my screen.' Also 'stop sharing' and 'Can you see my screen?' The noun is screen sharing.
Examples
Could you share your screen so we can all see the spreadsheet?
Let me share my screen. Can you all see the dashboard now?
Common phrases
let me share my screen · stop sharing · screen sharing · share a window
To wait for a short time, especially on the phone while the other person checks something or transfers the call.
Where you use it
Informal: 'Hold on a second', 'Can you hold on while I check?' More formal: 'Please hold' or 'Would you mind holding?' Being 'on hold' means waiting on a phone line, often listening to music.
Examples
Hold on a moment, I'll just check the order number.
I was on hold for twenty minutes before someone answered.
Usage note
'Put a project on hold' means to stop it for a while, not to cancel it.
Common phrases
hold on a second · hold on a moment · put someone on hold · on hold
A short phrase that tells someone they may start speaking or doing something, for example when two people talk at once on a call.
Where you use it
On calls, when two people start speaking at the same moment: 'Sorry, go ahead.' Also used to give permission: 'Go ahead and send it.' The noun 'the go-ahead' means official approval.
Examples
Oh, sorry, we both spoke at once. Go ahead, Mark.
If the numbers look fine, go ahead and place the order.
We finally got the go-ahead from the board.
Common phrases
sorry, go ahead · go ahead and send it · get the go-ahead · give the go-ahead
On a phone or video call, to sound unclear or cut in and out because of a weak signal or a poor internet connection.
Where you use it
Almost always in the continuous form: 'You're breaking up', 'Sorry, you broke up there.' Typical replies: 'Can you repeat that?', 'Let me call you back.'
Examples
Sorry, you're breaking up. Could you say that again?
The line kept breaking up, so I called her back from a landline.
Usage note
In everyday English 'break up' also means to end a relationship; the context makes the meaning clear.
Common phrases
you're breaking up · the line is breaking up · keep breaking up · breaking up a bit
A system that records phone messages when the person you call does not answer; also a single recorded message.
Where you use it
You leave, check, listen to or get a voicemail, and a call can 'go to voicemail'. A clear business voicemail gives your name, company, reason for calling and a number to call back.
Examples
I tried calling him, but it went straight to voicemail.
I left a voicemail for the client asking her to call me back.
Common phrases
leave a voicemail · go to voicemail · check your voicemail · voicemail message
To leave an online meeting or call before it ends, either on purpose or because the connection is lost.
Where you use it
Common in video meetings: 'I need to drop off at 3', 'Sorry, I dropped off; what did I miss?' Similar phrases: 'leave the call', 'jump off'.
Examples
I have to drop off in five minutes for another meeting.
Elena dropped off the call, so let's wait for her to rejoin.
Usage note
In everyday English 'drop off' also means to deliver something or give someone a lift: 'I'll drop off the documents', 'Can you drop me off at the station?'
Common phrases
drop off the call · need to drop off · drop off early · jump off the call
To start or join a quick, informal phone or video call, usually to sort something out faster than by email.
Where you use it
Informal and common in chat and email: 'Can you hop on a call?', 'Let's hop on a quick call to sort this out.' 'Jump on a call' means the same; a more neutral version is 'have a quick call'.
Examples
This email thread is getting long. Can we hop on a call for ten minutes?
I'll hop on the call as soon as my other meeting ends.
Common phrases
hop on a quick call · jump on a call · hop on a call with the client · hop off the call
To end a phone call by pressing a button or putting the phone down; on video calls, to leave the call.
Where you use it
'Don't hang up' asks someone to stay on the line. 'Hang up on someone' means ending the call suddenly while they are still talking, which is rude. The past tense is 'hung up'.
Examples
Please don't hang up; I'll just check the order details.
I'm going to hang up and call you back from my desk phone.
Common phrases
hang up the phone · hang up on someone · don't hang up · hang up and call back
To phone someone who called you earlier, or to phone someone again later.
Where you use it
Very common on the phone and in messages: 'Could you call me back?', 'I'll call you back in five minutes'. The noun is 'callback'. 'Return someone's call' is a more formal alternative.
Examples
I'm in a meeting right now. Can I call you back after three?
Mr Demir asked if you could call him back about the delivery.
Common phrases
call someone back · call back later · call you right back · ask someone to call back
Ten questions from this glossary. Pick the right meaning for each term and see your score.
How to learn business english vocabulary
Learn phrases, not single words: "wrap up the meeting", "push back the deadline" and "loop someone in" are what colleagues actually say.
Read real business texts every week, such as company announcements, annual reports and business news, and notice how emails open and close.
Keep a list of your own email sentences and replace word-for-word translations from Turkish with the natural English phrases you come across.
Watch out for words that look familiar but mean something else: an "agenda" is not a diary, and the "minutes" of a meeting have nothing to do with time.
Practise the sentences you need on calls, such as "You're on mute" and "Could you share your screen?", out loud before you need them.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Business English and general English?
The grammar is the same. The difference is in the vocabulary, the fixed phrases and the tone: Business English focuses on meetings, emails, presentations, negotiations and calls, and it values clear, polite and concise sentences.
How do I start and end a professional email in English?
A safe pattern is a greeting such as "Dear Ms Smith," or "Hi Anna,", a first sentence that says why you are writing, and a closing such as "Best regards," or "Kind regards," followed by your name. Match the tone of the person you are writing to.
Are idioms like "touch base" and "circle back" too informal for work?
They are normal in spoken English and internal emails, especially in companies with an American work culture. In formal letters, contracts and official reports, plain verbs such as "contact" or "discuss later" are a better fit.
Which Business English words do Turkish speakers often get wrong?
Typical traps are "agenda" (gündem, not ajanda), "minutes" (tutanak, not dakika), "bring forward" (to make earlier, not to postpone) and "shortly" (soon, not kısaca). A frequent grammar slip is "look forward to hear" instead of "look forward to hearing".
How can I improve my Business English faster?
Read real business texts, such as company emails, reports, press releases and business news, and collect the phrases that keep coming back. Then reuse them in your own emails and meetings; a phrase you have used at work a few times stays with you.
