When it comes to professional communication, business English is essential in the global workplace. Whether you work in an international company, or you are preparing for a job interview, having a strong grasp of common workplace expressions in English is vital.

 

You may already be fluent in English, but adding idioms and phrases into the language you use at work will help elevate your workplace English.

 

Here are fifteen business English expressions to boost your vocabulary:

 

1. “Let’s touch base.” This means to have a conversation about a certain topic and is often used to check in with a colleague or client.

 

2. “I’m swamped.” This expression is used to describe a situation in which you are overwhelmed with work. It’s a way of expressing that you have too much to do.

 

3. “Let’s brainstorm.” Brainstorming is a creative process used to generate ideas and solutions. It’s often used in the workplace to come up with new ideas or strategies.

 

4. “It’s a win-win.” This phrase is used to describe a situation in which everyone involved benefits.

 

5. “Go the extra mile.” This describes someone who puts in extra effort and is often used to encourage people to put in more effort than what is expected by the client.

 

6. “I’m on the same page.” Use this phrase in a situation in which everyone involved is in agreement.

 

7. “Let’s get down to business.” This expression is used to direct the conversation towards a particular goal.

 

 

8. “That’s not feasible.” A situation in which something is not possible or practical can be described like this.

 

9. “That’s a red flag.” For a scenario in which something is suspicious or potentially dangerous. Use it if you are sceptical about a business plan or idea.

 

10. “It’s a no-brainer.” This expression is used to describe an obvious decision or solution.

 

11. “Let’s take it offline.” For situations when you want to propose that a conversation should be continued in private, perhaps because it isn’t relevant to the current discussion.

 

12. “Let’s table it.” This expression is used to suggest that a discussion or decision should be delayed.

 

13. “I’ll circle back.” Circling back indicates that you will revisit a particular topic or conversation at a later date.

 

14. “Let’s pick up the pace.” This expression is used to suggest that the speed of a task or project should increase.

 

15. “I’ll take it under advisement.” This signals that you will consider a suggestion or advice before making a decision. You might want to seek a second opinion on a matter.

 

Using business English expressions is an important part of professional communication. By learning these fifteen expressions, you will be able to communicate effectively in the workplace. Why not practice using these expressions in conversation, to broaden your vocabulary and take your business English to the next level!

 

About the author:

Corinne is a CELTA-qualified English language teacher and has experience setting up and managing language training programmes for the government and corporate firms.

 

 

PLS is a language training provider based in London who provide online and in-person foreign language lessons to a variety of corporate and government clients. Get in touch today to discover how we can help you or your colleagues reach your language learning goals.