Understanding business language is crucial for effective communication in the professional world. This blog post explores 20 essential idioms and phrasal verbs that are commonly used in business contexts. Mastering these expressions will help you navigate meetings, negotiations, and everyday workplace interactions with confidence.
1. Back to the drawing board
Meaning: Start over.
Example: We failed; let’s go back to the drawing board.
2. Cut corners
Meaning: Do something poorly.
Example: Don’t cut corners with this important project.
3. Get the ball rolling
Meaning: Start something.
Example: We need to get the ball rolling on this deal.
4. In the black
Meaning: Profitable.
Example: Our company has been in the black for years.
5. In the red
Meaning: Losing money.
Example: We’ve been in the red since last quarter.
6. Think outside the box
Meaning: Be creative.
Example: We need to think outside the box to solve this.
7. Touch base
Meaning: Brief contact.
Example: Let’s touch base next week about the report.
8. Learn the ropes
Meaning: Understand basics.
Example: She’s still learning the ropes in her new job.
9. Bring to the table
Meaning: Offer something.
Example: What skills can you bring to the table?
10. Cut to the chase
Meaning: Get to the point.
Example: Let’s cut to the chase and finalize this deal.
11. Hands-on
Meaning: Direct involvement.
Example: The manager is very hands-on with her team.
12. Hit the ground running
Meaning: Start quickly.
Example: She hit the ground running in her new role.
13. Long shot
Meaning: Unlikely success.
Example: Getting that contract is a long shot.
14. Take it to the next level
Meaning: Improve further.
Example: We need to take our marketing to the next level.
15. Up in the air
Meaning: Uncertain.
Example: The decision is still up in the air.
16. Win-win situation
Meaning: Mutual benefit.
Example: This partnership is a win-win situation for both.
17. Behind the scenes
Meaning: In secret.
Example: A lot of work happens behind the scenes here.
18. Go the extra mile
Meaning: Make extra effort.
Example: Our team always goes the extra mile for clients.
19. Put on the back burner
Meaning: Delay.
Example: We need to put this project on the back burner.
20. Raise the bar
Meaning: Increase standards.
Example: This new policy will raise the bar for everyone.
