English
Arabic
Chinese (Simplified)
Dutch
French
German
Italian
Portuguese
Russian
SpanishAre you ready to take your business English to the next level in 2023? If so, this guide is for you!
With this comprehensive list of the most commonly used business English expressions, you will be able to confidently communicate with your colleagues, clients, and peers.
Whether you are a beginner or a professional, this guide will provide you with the essential knowledge you need to succeed in the business world in 2023. So let’s get started and learn the essential business English expressions that you need to know for success in 2023.
Get in touch
This phrase is commonly used in business communication to mean “to make contact with someone.” For example, when ending an email or phone conversation, you may say “Let’s stay in touch” or “Get in touch if you have any further questions.” This is a polite and professional way of indicating that you would like to maintain contact and be available for future communication.
That sounds great
This is a common phrase that is used to show enthusiasm and agreement in business communication. It is a polite way of showing your appreciation for an idea or plan that has been proposed. For example, a client might say “We should schedule a meeting for next Tuesday” and you might respond with “That sounds great. I’ll be there.”
I’m looking forward to it
This is a phrase that expresses enthusiasm and eagerness. It can be used in business communication to express enthusiasm for an upcoming meeting, conference, or event. For example, if your boss emails you about a meeting they have scheduled with a client, you can reply with, “I’m looking forward to it!” to show your enthusiasm for the meeting.
I’m afraid I can’t make it
This phrase is a polite way of declining an offer or invitation. It can be used to politely turn down a business proposal, meeting, or even a social gathering. For example, if you receive an invitation to attend a business event but have prior commitments that prevent you from attending, you could reply “I’m afraid I can’t make it” as a way of politely declining the invitation.
Thank you for your offer
This phrase is a polite and professional way to express gratitude for someone offering something to you, such as assistance, a product, or services. It’s an essential part of business communication and is used when the person wants to be thankful but doesn’t want to sound overly grateful.
For example, if a customer offered their opinion or insight on a project, you could say “Thank you for your offer. I appreciate it.” This expression is also commonly used in job interviews and when customers are requesting services. It’s important to use this expression to show appreciation and create a good impression with the other party.
I’d like to ask a favor
The phrase “I’d like to ask a favor” is commonly used in business communication when asking someone for help. It is a polite way of requesting assistance without being overly demanding or imposing.
For example, if a colleague needs help with a project, they might say “I’d like to ask a favor – can you take a look at this report for me?”. This phrase is a great way to show respect and gratitude when asking for help from someone.
That’s very kind of you
Expressing gratitude is an essential part of any business interaction. When someone goes out of their way to help you or do something nice, it’s important to acknowledge their efforts. One of the most popular phrases used to thank someone is “That’s very kind of you.”
This expression is a great way to show your appreciation without making a big fuss.
It’s important to remember that this phrase is meant to be sincere and heartfelt. If someone has offered their time or resources, make sure to sincerely thank them for their kindness.
Use the phrase in a way that conveys your genuine gratitude and appreciation.
It’s also important to remember that “That’s very kind of you” is not limited to one particular context. You can use this expression in many different scenarios, from receiving a gift or offer of help, to being invited to a gathering.
No matter what the situation, showing appreciation for someone’s kindness is always appreciated.
How about we…
This phrase is a great way to make a suggestion in business communication. It can be used as a way to make a proposal, express an idea, or even offer a solution. Using this phrase shows that you are willing to work together to come up with the best possible solution.
For example, if a manager and an employee need to come up with a new project idea, the manager might say “How about we come up with some potential ideas and then discuss them further at our next meeting?”.
This gives the employee the chance to come up with their own ideas and also allows the manager to provide their input as well.
I’m sorry, but…
This is a common expression used in business communication to apologize for a request or to reject an offer. This phrase indicates that you are aware of the inconvenience or disappointment you may be causing the other person, but that you need to be assertive about your decision.
For example, if a colleague offers to help you with a project but you don’t need their help, you could reply “I’m sorry, but I think I have it covered. Thank you for the offer though.” This phrase helps to soften the rejection and maintain positive relationships.
Can I ask for your opinion?
This is an expression that is used to politely request another’s opinion in a business setting. It shows respect for the other person and allows them to express their thoughts on a particular topic or situation.
An example of this phrase being used in business communication could be “Can I ask for your opinion on the new marketing campaign? We’d love to hear your thoughts.” Asking for someone’s opinion demonstrates that you value their input and encourages them to provide meaningful insight.
I need to get your input on this
This phrase is used when someone wants to ask for another person’s opinion or advice on a certain matter. It is often used in business communication, such as when you need to make a decision and you want the input of your team members.
For example, if you are making a new business plan, you might say “I need to get your input on this before we move forward with the project.” This phrase shows that you value their opinion and encourages them to be part of the decision-making process.
What do you think?
“What do you think?” is a phrase commonly used in business communication to solicit the opinion of another person. It’s used to get feedback on decisions, proposals, or ideas that need input from other people. For example, a manager might ask their team, “What do you think about the new product launch schedule?”
The manager is seeking input from their team on the decision they are about to make. Asking for their opinion allows everyone to feel included and heard before making a final decision.
I completely agree
This phrase is used to indicate that one person fully agrees with a statement or opinion made by another. It is often used in business communication to convey understanding and agreement. An example of this phrase being used in business communication is:
“I completely agree with your proposed strategy. Let’s move forward with it.”
I’m not sure I agree
This phrase is often used in business communication when someone wants to express disagreement but is not sure if their opinion is valid.
For example, if a colleague presents a proposal and you are not convinced it is the right move, you may say “I’m not sure I agree” to express your hesitation.
This phrase allows for a more polite way of disagreeing with someone than saying “I disagree”.
I’m afraid I disagree
This phrase is often used in business communication when expressing disagreement or reluctance. It is a polite way of conveying one’s disapproval without offending the other person.
For example, a colleague might say “I think we should hire a new marketing manager” and you might respond with “I’m afraid I disagree; I think we have enough staff already.” This phrase can be used to express dissent or displeasure in a professional manner.
That’s a good point
This phrase is used in business communication to acknowledge and express appreciation for a well-thought-out opinion or idea. This phrase shows that the speaker values the other person’s opinion, as well as their ability to think critically about the subject.
For example, a manager might say “That’s a good point, Jane. I hadn’t thought of that” when their employee suggests an alternative solution to a problem they are trying to solve. This phrase acknowledges the employee’s contribution while also showing appreciation for the idea they presented.
I hadn’t thought of that
This phrase is a response to something someone has just said or suggested that the speaker had not previously considered. It is often used in business conversations when a colleague provides insight that was not previously on the speaker’s radar.
For example, if a coworker suggests a new product design feature, the speaker could respond with “I hadn’t thought of that!” to express appreciation and acknowledgement of the suggestion.
That’s an interesting perspective
This phrase is used to acknowledge and appreciate someone else’s opinion or idea that they have just presented in a conversation. It is a way to show interest in the person’s thoughts and encourage further discussion.
For example, if someone presents their thoughts on a new business strategy, you might respond with “That’s an interesting perspective. Can you tell me more about your ideas?” This allows the conversation to continue while showing appreciation for the other person’s opinion.
I’m not sure I follow
This phrase is used to indicate that you don’t understand what has been said or proposed. It is a polite way of asking for more information or clarification. An example of this phrase being used in business communication could be, “I’m not sure I follow. Can you explain the new procedure again?”
This phrase can be used in many different situations such as when someone is giving instructions or making a suggestion. In these cases, it is important to provide additional details to help ensure that everyone understands the instructions or suggestion.
Can you elaborate?
This is a common business English expression used to ask someone to provide more information or detail. It’s commonly used when someone makes an argument or statement that you don’t understand, or need more clarification on. An example of this being used in business communication could be: “I’m afraid I don’t follow. Can you elaborate on what you mean?”
To Sum Up Business English Phrases
- Get in touch: Reach out and contact someone
- That sounds great: Expressing enthusiasm
- I’m looking forward to it: Anticipating something with excitement
- I’m afraid I can’t make it: Apologising for not being able to attend
- Thank you for your offer: Acknowledging and appreciating an offer
- I’d like to ask a favor: Requesting help
- That’s very kind of you: Appreciating someone’s generosity
- How about we...: Suggesting an idea
- I’m sorry, but...: Apologising before making a statement or refusing something
- Can I ask for your opinion?: Requesting feedback
- I need to get your input on this: Asking for advice
- What do you think?: Seeking someone’s opinion
- I completely agree: Agreeing with someone
- I’m not sure I agree: Expressing doubt over an opinion
- I’m afraid I disagree: Disagreeing with someone
- That’s a good point: Acknowledging someone’s valid point
- I hadn’t thought of that: Acknowledging another perspective
- That’s an interesting perspective: Showing interest in someone’s point of view
- I’m not sure I follow: Asking for clarification.
With these common business English phrases, you’ll be sure to make the right impression in any workplace. Having these phrases ready to use will help you communicate more confidently and effectively in any professional situation.
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest
Reddit
Telegram
WhatsApp
