Business Vocabulary (PIA)

BUSINESS VOCABULARY 5N
Preface
English has become the language of the Internet, engineering, medicine, professional
training, trade and research. In the global environment, it has become common for non-
native speakers to learn Business English as a specific tool, with the aim of interacting with
English-speaking countries or with companies that use English as a shared language.
One way for a student to learn the language is for them to know vocabularies and learn
how to see them in a situation.
This book focuses on the vocabulary and phrases used throughout the business world and
the communication skills needed in the workplace and business conversation. A sound
grasp of Business English vocabulary enables the students to more effectively and fluently
communicate in English during day to day workplace scenarios, such as presentations,
negotiations, meetings, small talk, socializing, writing reports and CV writing.
This book contains fifteen (15) units which offer a variety of different types of activities,
including traditional ones such as gap-filling, but also more open-ended ones and
personalized activities which enable learners to talk about their own lives.
Pines International Academy Page1

TABLE OF CONTENTS
UNIT TITLE PAGE
1 Business idioms and Expressions (1) 3
2 Business idioms and Expressions (2) 5
3 Phrases used in Business Letters (1) 7
4 Phrases used in Business Letters (2) 8
5 Business Proverbs 11
6 Negotiations 13
7 Data/Trend Chart Vocabularies 15
8 Useful Phrases in Presenting Graphs 18
9 Useful Phrases for Presentations (1) 19
10 Useful Phrases for Presentations (2) 21
11 Business Slangs 23
12 Abbreviations and Acronyms 25
13 Efficiency and Competency idioms 28
14 Interview Questions (1) 30
15 Interview Questions (2) 31
References 34

Unit 1 Business Idioms and Expressions (1)
Idioms are words, phrases or expressions which are commonly used in everyday
conversation by native speakers of English.
1. business is business - used to say that profit is the

most important thing to consider
2. business as usual - when someone or something is still
working or operating normally when you think they
might not be
3. monkey business - an activity which is organized in a
deceitful or dishonest way
4. the bottom line - used in general to refer to the final outcome, or the most important
point to consider
5. get down to business – used when it’s time to start seriously focusing on the actual
work
6. go the extra mile - means to give more effort or do more than what’s expected of
you
7. blank check - if you authorize someone to do what they think is best in a difficult
situation
8. done and dusted - when a project, task or activity is done and dusted, it is
completely finished or ready
9. get (your) hands dirty - if you get your hands dirty in your job, you become involved
in all aspects of it, including work that is physical, unpleasant or less interesting
10. golden opportunity - a favorable time or an excellent occasion which should not be
missed
11. hit the ground running - if someone hits the ground running, they are ready and
eager to start immediately on a new activity
12. nuts and bolts - the nuts and bolts of something are the detailed facts and the
practical aspects
13. seal of approval - if a project or contract receives a seal of approval, it receives
formal support or approval from higher authorities
14. tricks of the trade – this term refers to a clever or expert way of doing things,
especially in a job
15. shape up or ship out - this expression is used to warn someone that if they do not
improve, they will have to leave their job
NOTE: It is important to remember that idiomatic expressions are used when speaking
informally. They are not used in formal exchanges.

Exercises
A. Fill the gaps in these sentences using the expressions learned.
1. It’s true that we’re very short-handed, _________________ is we must still deliver the
project on time.
2. He's a tough negotiator; he knows all the ____________________.
3. We've had a break and now we've got to _______________________________ again.
4. We can't conclude the deal without the director's _____________________.
5. We need to discuss the ________________ of the proposal before going any further.
6. The results announced seem suspicious – I think there's some _______________

going on.
7. An internship in that company would be a ____________________ for you – it might

lead to a permanent job later.
8. His willingness to __________________________won the respect and approval of the

whole team.
9. I've nearly finished preparing the presentation. When it's all ____________________
I'll be able to relax.
10. It was _________________________ at the supermarket the day after the hold-up.
B. Write a dialogue using the expressions learned.
Situation: You are having a discussion with your colleagues regarding customer’s
wants and needs.
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________

Unit 2 Business Idioms and Expressions (2)
Company and People
1. blue chip company - this term refers to a company with a solid reputation for the
quality of its products and the stability of its growth and earnings
2. smokestack industries - industries involved in heavy manufacturing such as the
production of iron and steel, especially if they cause a lot of pollution
3. smooth waters - a business or operation that is in smooth waters is making regular and
easy progress
4. black market - it refers to the illegal buying and selling of goods or currencies
5. bricks and mortar or bricks and clicks - an established trading company
(office/shop) is referred to as a 'brick-and-mortar' business
'Click companies' refer to internet-based operations.
Companies which do both are called 'bricks and clicks'.
Click businesses are usually more flexible than brick-and-mortar operations.
6. cash cow - a product or service which is a regular source of income for a company
7. eager beaver - it refers to a person who is hardworking and enthusiastic, sometimes
considered overzealous
8. movers and shakers - it refers to people in power who take an active part in making
things happen
9. opposite number - a person who holds the same position as oneself in another
company or organization
10. too many chiefs, not enough Indians - it refers to a situation where there are too
many people giving instructions and not enough people doing the work
11. do the spadework - someone who does the preparatory work or the preliminary
research
12. go out of business - if a shop, firm or
enterprise goes out of business, it closes
down or goes bankrupt
13. sell ice to Eskimos - this expression is used
to describe a person who has the ability
to persuade someone to accept
something totally unnecessary or useless
14. win-win - it refers to a situation or
proposition where both or all parties
benefit from the outcome
15. play the market - if you play the market, you buy stocks and shares in the hope of
making a profit when you sell them

Exercises
A. Rearrange the following words/phrases to make a complete and correct

sentence.
1. the town will go out of business a lot of shops if the new road bypasses
_________________________________________________________________________________
2. was never mentioned I did all my name the spadework although
_________________________________________________________________________________
3. safe blue chip company in a it’s usually to invest
_________________________________________________________________________________
4. in smooth waters these days the company seems to be
_________________________________________________________________________________
5. are smokestack industries in residential areas no longer authorized
_____________________________________________________________________________
B. Write the correct words/phrases in the following dialogues.
1. A: Do you know Ted?

B: Oh, the new accountant.
A: He works all the time – first to arrive and last to leave. He's a real _______________!
2. A: It's not surprising he was named 'salesman of the year'. He could _______________
______________!
B: Yeah. He has an amazing skill talking to people.

Unit 3 Phrases Used in Business Letters (1)
Letter is an indispensable tool of communication in business. Business letters are

used to sell the products, make inquiry about customers or prices of goods, seek
information and advice, maintain good public relation, increase goodwill and
perform a variety of other business functions.
 Dear Mr. Brown

Salutation  Dear Sir or Madam
 Gentlemen
 I am contacting you for the following reasons…

 I recently read/heard about… and would like to know…
Starting
 Having seen your advertisement in…, I would like to…
 I would be interested in (obtaining/receiving)…
 I am enclosing ...
Enclosing
 Please find enclosed ...
Documents
 You will find enclosed …
 If we can be of any further assistance, please let us know.

 If I can help in any way, please do not hesitate to contact
me.
 If you require more information ...
Closing Remarks  For further details ...
 Thank you for taking this into consideration.
 Thank you for your help.
 We hope you are happy with this arrangement.
 We hope you can settle this matter to our satisfaction.
 Sincerely,
Ending Business  Sincerely Yours,
Letters  Regards,
 Best Regards,

Unit 4 Phrases Used in Business Letters (2)
Business Letters Content and Purpose
 Thank you for contacting us.

Referring to  Thank you for your letter regarding…
previous contract  With reference to our telephone conversation yesterday…
 I enjoyed having lunch with you last week in Tokyo.
 We would appreciate it if you would ...

 Could you please send me ...
Making a request  It would be helpful if you could send us ...
 I would appreciate your immediate attention to this matter.
 Please let me know what action you propose to take.
 Would you like us to

 We would be happy to ...
Offering help
 We are quite willing to ...
 Our company would be pleased to…
 We are pleased to announce that ...

Giving good news  I am delighted to inform you that...
 You will be pleased to learn that…
 We regret to inform you that ...

 I'm afraid it would not be possible to ...
Giving bad news
 Unfortunately we cannot / we are unable to ...
 After careful consideration we have decided (not) to…
 I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with ...

 I am writing to complain about ...
 Please note that the goods we ordered on (date) have not yet
arrived.
Complaining
 We regret to inform you that our order number (12345) is now
considerably overdue.
 I would like to query the transport charges which seem
unusually high.
 We are sorry for the delay in replying to...

 I regret any inconvenience caused (by ...
Apologizing
 I would like to apologize for the (delay, inconvenience)...
 Once again, please accept my apologies for…

 We are pleased to place an order with your company for…

 We would like to cancel our order number…
 Please confirm receipt of our order.
 Your order will be processed as quickly as possible.
Orders
 It will take about (two/three) weeks to process your order.
 We can guarantee the delivery before (date).
 Unfortunately these articles are no longer available / are out of
stock
 Please send us your price list.

 You will find enclosed our most recent catalogue and price list.
Prices
 Please note that our prices are subject to change without
notice.
 Our terms of payment are as follows...

 Our records show that we have not yet received payment of...
Referring to
 According to our records ...
payment
 Please send payment as soon as possible.
 You will receive a credit note for the sum of…
 We look forward to a successful working relationship in the

Referring to future future.
business  I would be happy to have an opportunity to work with your
firm.
 I look forward to seeing you next week.

 Looking forward to hearing from you.
Referring to future
 Looking forward to receiving your comments.
contract
 I would appreciate a reply at your earliest convenience.
 An early reply would be appreciated.

Exercise
Write a sample business letter using the phrases and expressions learned.
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________

 Unit 5 Business Proverbs
Proverbs and sayings are short statements of wisdom or advice that are transmitted from
generation to generation and have passed into general use.
The advice given in proverbs is generally based on experience or a traditionally-held

truth.
1. You are what you eat.

2. Worry often gives a small thing a big shadow.
3. Virtue is its own reward.
4. Two wrongs don’t make a right.
5. (Do not) put all your eggs in one basket.
6. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
7. Make a silk purse out of a sow’s ear.
8. It takes all sorts to make a world.
9. Gardens are not made by sitting in the shade.
10. Facts speak louder than words.
11. Early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.
12. Experience is the father of wisdom.
13. A danger foreseen is half avoided.
14. A calm sea does not make a skilled sailor.
15. Walls have ears.

Exercises
A: Write about a time in your life when you have experienced a situation that
matches the proverbs.
1. Virtue is its own reward.

_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
2. You are what you eat.

_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
3. Walls have ears.

_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
4. Gardens are not made by sitting in the shade.

_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
5. A calm sea does not make a skilled sailor.

_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________
B: Write the letter with the correct proverb that matches the pictures below.
a. It takes all sorts to make a world.

b. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
c. A danger foreseen is half avoided.
d. Facts speak louder than words.
1. 2. 3.
_____ _____ _____

Unit 6 Negotiations
Negotiation is an official discussion between the representatives of opposing groups

who are trying to reach an agreement, especially in business. Here are some of the
commonly used vocabularies in negotiations.
1. bedrock price (n) – lowest possible price

ex. The company wants to find a supplier that offers a bedrock price.
2. Compromise (n) – each party gives up certain demands in order to reach an
agreement
ex. Representatives of each side might well come to some sort of compromise.
3. counter-offer (n) – an offer that is higher than the previous one
ex. Celebrity voted to accept the RCI bid, despite a counter-offer of $525 million
from Carnival Corp.
4. counterproductive (adj.) – having the opposite effect to that intended
ex. Thus replication begets replication, until the costs of these counterproductive
activities finally bring the organization to a long-delayed breaking point.
5. feasible (adj.)– possible, something that can be done
ex. Solar heating is technically and economically feasible.
6. know-how (n) – practical knowledge or skill
ex. There was a lack of managerial and technical know-how in the steel industry.
7. joint venture (n) – a business activity in which two or more companies have invested
together
ex. Saudi Arabian and Japanese officials agreed on a joint venture to build oil
refineries in both countries.
8. point out (v) – draw attention to something
ex. Some economists have pointed out that low inflation is not necessarily a good
thing.
9. Tender (n) – a written offer to execute work or supply goods at a fixed price
ex. Councilors agreed that the contract to build the homes should be put out to
tender.
10. Turnkey (adj) – equipment ready for use or operation (for example, a factory)
ex. The system functions as a turnkey management solution to service providers,
making their operation more efficient and profitable.

Exercises
A: Make a sentence using the vocabularies written in each number.
1. joint venture
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
2. counter-offer
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
3. bedrock price
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
4. point out
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
5. know-how
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
B: Match the vocabularies in Column A with the correct synonyms in Column B.
A B
______ 1. compromise a. failed
______ 2. counterproductive b. trade-off
______ 3. feasible c. present
______ 4. tender d. available
______ 5. turnkey e. bid
f. possible

Unit 7 Data/Trend Chart Vocabularies
Data/Trend charts are used to show trends in data over time. All processes vary, so
single point measurements can be misleading. Displaying data over time increases
understanding of the real performance of a process, particularly with regard to an
established target or goal.
NOUNS
a mathematical drawing or list, showing information arranged in a way

chart
that is clear and easy to understand
The chart shows the monthly food and drink sales in Keighley Cinema
during 2010.
the total number of products that are sold during a particular period of
sales time
The sales of all products increased in December.
a reduction in the amount, level, price, etc. of something

fall
A fall in the sales of ice cream could be seen from April to June.
a particular length of time

period The chart shows the sales of popcorn, ice cream and drink for a period
of one year.
an increase in number, amount, or value

rise
A rise in the sales of popcorn could be seen from April to August.

VERBS
to go down to a lower price, level, amount etc.

fall
The sales of ice cream fell from April to July.
if part of a graph, chart, etc. represents something, it shows that

represent information
The sales of popcorn are represented by the green line.
to increase in number, amount, or value

rise
When popcorn sales rise, there is also a rise in the sales of drinks.
to appear to be
seem
As you can see, it seemed that people drink more when they eat food.
to provide facts or information that make it clear that something is true,

that something exists, or that something has happened
show
The above chart shows the monthly food and drink sales in the Keighley
cinema during 2010.
ADJECTIVES
great and sudden

dramatic A dramatic increase in the sales of units were expected in the month of
December.
happening slowly over a long period of time

gradual There had been a gradual rise in the sales of drinks from March to
August.
small in degree
sight There was a slight increase in the sales of ice cream from August to
September.
staying at about the same level

steady
The sales of ice cream from April to July were almost steady.

Exercises
Describe the charts using the vocabularies learned.
1.
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
2.
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________

Unit 8 Useful Phrases in Presenting Graphs
 I’d like to show you this chart on which you will see…
 Let me draw your attention to this part of the graph.
 Let’s look more closely at (this month’s) figures.
Presenting  The chart represents (sales Asian outlets).
Visuals  Here you can see a comparison between…
 On the line graph you will note:
a strong upward trend in the sales of Product A
the overall performance of Product B is good
 INCREASES
a slight/constant/marked/substantial/increase in sales
an increase of about/roughly/approximately/in the region of (%)..
a little over/above what we predicted
the recovery/upturn began in (month)
an overall increase in ...
an upward trend in the demand for ...
sales reached record levels / reached a peak in (month)
a strong surge in the sales of ...
by (month), the figure had risen to ...
we predict that sales will soar in (the coming year/over the next..)
 DECREASES
Commenting way below our expectations
Trends a slight / notable / significant decrease in...
the downturn began in (month)
the situation began to deteriorate in (month)
the number has continued to fall
 FLUCTUATIONS
a slow start developed into steady progress in sales
an initial upward trend was followed by...
we note slight fluctuations through the year
normal seasonal variations are the cause of occasional
downward trends
sales have been (rather) irregular
the level / the rate has been unstable since...
you will note a certain instability in the rate of ...
 We must focus our attention on...

 What I suggest is...
 There is a necessity for...
 We need more...
 Appropriate measures must be taken.
Conclusion  The only option we have is to...
 These changes are inevitable.
 We will have to revise our estimation.
 The result/outcome will be...
 I strongly recommend...
 To conclude, I am happy (I regret) to announce that...

Unit 9 Useful Phrases for Presentations (1)
Preparation is essential for an effective presentation. When giving a presentation,

certain keywords are used to signpost the different stages. It's a good idea to memorize
them and practice using them, so that they come to mind easily during a presentation.
PHRASES EXAMPLES
 Good morning / Good Good morning ladies and

afternoon ladies and gentlemen. What I’m going to
gentlemen talk about today is the
Starting the
 The topic of my presentation feasibility of putting up our first
presentation
today is… factory in the Philippines.
 What I’m going to talk about
today is…
 The main points I will be talking The main points I will be talking
about are: about are: Firstly, the total cost of
Stating the main Firstly, the establishment. Secondly, the
points Secondly, benefits of the project. Finally,
Next, we’re going to look at how the
Finally… locals work.
Introducing the  Let’s start/begin with… Let’s begin with the total cost of
first point the establishment.
Showing graphics,
 I’d like to illustrate this by I’d like to illustrate this by showing
transparencies,
slides, etc.
showing you… you the timetable of this project.
 I’d like to recap the main points I’d like to recap the main points
of my presentation: of my presentation: First I covered
►First I covered… the expenses that we’ll need in
Summing up the ►Then we talked about… this project. Then we talked
main points ►Finally we looked at… about the advantages of the
 I’d now like to sum up the main said factory. Finally we looked at
points which were: First… how it will benefit the locals.
Second… Third…
 I’m going to conclude by… I’m going to conclude by telling

(First… Second… Third…) everyone that putting up a
Conclusion
 In conclusion… (First… factory in the Philippines is
Second… Third…) feasible.
 Now I’d like to invite any

Sir/Ma’am, do you have any
Questions questions you may have.
questions?
 Do you have any questions?

Exercise
Write the suitable phrases and expressions used in presentations in the gaps
provided.
“SALES PRESENTATION”
____________________________. We are so glad to see you all here today. My name is

Cecilia Wan, the general manager of the Walk Company. _________________________
________________ our company – Walk Company and our newly invented product -
“Super Socks”. This is our innovative and creative product with high level of technology.
_____________________________________: ___________, I will introduce our company.

_________, I will show you our product and tell you about its special features.
________________, I will show you our advertising campaign. Please feel free to ask any
questions at the end of our presentation.
_________________ giving you some details about our company. Our company is
specialized in producing socks. That’s why our company logo is made up of a pair of
socks. We encourage people to walk more by wearing our product. Therefore, our
company motto is “Walk more!”
_______________________ showing you how fantastic our new products are. “Super Socks”
are specially designed for kids. They are durable and super comfortable. They are
made of 100% cotton and can absorb sweat and keep the small feet dry. We
guarantee that our socks will not be worn out after wearing 100 times.
_________________, our socks are made with high technology. Compared with similar
products on the market, our socks are definitely your ideal selection in summer. If you
use our product, a rainy day will become a bright day! Don’t hesitate, come and buy a
few pairs and try. I am sure you will come back for more!
You can fill in our order form attached to our leaflet and hand it to our staff. An
additional 20% discount is offered today. Buy it now!
That brings me to the end of our presentation today. Thanks for your time today.
______________________________________________________?

Unit 10 Useful Phrases for Presentations (2)
PHRASES EXAMPLES
 The purpose of this The purpose of this

Why you are giving presentation is… presentation is to show that it is
this presentation  This is important because… possible to establish a factory
 My objective is to… in the Philippines.
Moving to the next  Now let’s move on to… Now let’s move on to the main
point points of this presentation.
 I’d like to expand on (this I’d like to expand on the

aspect/problem/point…) benefits of the said project. It
Giving more details  Let me elaborate on that. would eventually give a lot of
 Would you like to employment opportunities.
expand/elaborate on that?
 I’d like to digress here for a I’d like to digress here for a
Referring to moment and just mention… moment and just mention that
something which is our employers would totally
off the topic enjoy the amazing sceneries
as they visit the country.
 Let me go back to what I said Let me go back to what I said

Referring back to
earlier about… earlier about the initial cost of
an earlier point
the project in 6 months.

Exercise
Write a presentation script using the phrases learned.
Topic: Business Ethics
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

Unit 11 Business Slangs
Business English is a bit like the fashion world – words, terms and phrases come into
popular use only to become passé (no longer modern or fashionable) next year but
terminologies will remain in use for many years which means business people need to be
familiar with it. Below are some of the colloquial American business words.
Slang Meaning
cake walk Easily accomplished
Do you read me? Do you understand?
downtime Period when equipment isn’t available to perform
it refers to a time spent speaking face to face especially to

facetime
senior management
save our bacon save from danger
slam dunk a complete business success
zero-sum game if someone wins, someone must lose
savvy smart, aware, knowledgeable
a jungle out there a difficult market with tough competitors
free ride obtaining benefit for no cost
catch 22 whatever you do, it won’t work
C-level people at the top of the organization chart: CEO, COO, etc.
special/secret sauce it’s used to refer to anything proprietary
touch base to request to meet again to discuss the current status of a

project or task

Exercises
Read the following dialog then change the underlined words into business slang to
make the conversation more casual. (You can add S,V,Adj.)
1. A: I heard Mr. Smith saved us from bankruptcy.
B: Yeah. It’s true. The managers are actually talking to him right now.
A: Well, I guess, we really have to be smarter this time. There are a lot of competitors
out there.
B: Yeah. And once we hit the ground, nothing will work.
A: That’s true. If one company fails, another will surely succeed.
B: Anyway, I couldn’t finish this report because all the fax machines are not working.
A: Have you tried to talk to the maintenance about it?
2. A: Good morning sir. I have a proposal.
B: Okay. Make it quick. I’m in a hurry.
A: What if we ask the proprietors to attend our product launching so that they could
also see what we’re doing?
B: That’s a good idea! Okay, send them invitations. Make sure the product
launching will be successful.
A: No worries sir!
B: By the way, please call Ms. Pemberton. I’d like to talk to her in person. ASAP.
Understand?
A: Consider it done, sir.
B: Oh, and one more thing, after you talk to the proprietors, let’s talk about the
project.
A: Yes sir.

Unit 12 Abbreviations and Acronyms
Abbreviation is a shortened form of a written word, phrase or name used in place of the
whole.
Acronym is a word which is formed from the first letters of other words, and which is
pronounced.
ABBREVIATION
MEANING USAGE AND DEFINITION
ACRONYM
usually used when followed by an
@ at
address
an arrangement between a bank and

a/c account a customer that allows the customer to
pay in and take out money
a meeting held once a year by a club,

business, or organization for the
AGM Annual General Meeting
members to discuss the previous year’s
business, elect officials, etc.
instead of someone, or as their

a/o account of (in behalf of)
representative
written on the front or at the top of a

Attn. for the attention of letter when you want a particular
person to read it or deal with it
used in an email when sending

someone a copy of a message that
you have also sent to someone else, so
Bcc blind carbon copy
that this person does not know that
other people will also receive the
message
used in a business letter or email to

Cc carbon copy show that you are sending a copy to
someone else
used when you are sending something

to someone who is living in someone
c/o care of
else’s house or receiving mail at their
place of work
used when you are listing some

e.g. exempli gratia (for example) examples of things you are talking
about

the total value of all goods and

services produced in a country, in one
GDP Gross Domestic Product year, except for income received from
abroad
used in the names of companies or

Ltd. Limited
businesses
used on forms to show that you are not

N/A not applicable answering a question because it is not
designed for people in your situation
used to make a reader pay attention

NB nota bene
to an important piece of information
p.a. per annum per year
an amount of something that can be

Qty quantity
counted or measured
the part of a business concerned with

R&D Research and Development studying new ideas and planning new
products
the profit on an investment in relation

ROI Return on Investment
to the amount invested
used on invitations to ask someone to

RSVP Repondez s’il vous plait
reply
an envelope that you put your name,

s.a.e. stamped address envelope address, and a stamp on, so that
someone can send you something
someone who is very famous or

VIP very important person powerful and is treated with special
care and respect

Exercises
1. Write an email using the abbreviations and acronyms learned. Write them on the
spaces provided for you.
2. Match the following acronyms and abbreviations on the left with the correct
infromation on the right.
______ 1. RSVP a) google.com

______ 2. a/c b) 2381778910
______ 3. @ c) Queen Elizabeth II
______ 4. AGM d) Yes, we would love to join the
______ 5. VIP conference.
e) When: January 25, 2018
Where: Country Club

Unit 13 Efficiency and Competence Idioms
Idioms Meaning and Examples
 if you are on the ball, you are aware of what is happening and
on the ball are able to deal with things quickly and intelligently
ex. We need someone who is really on the ball to head the
fund-raising campaign.
 if you kill two birds with one stone, you succeed in doing two
kill two birds with things at the same time
one stone ex. By studying on the train on the way home, Claire kills two
birds with one stone.
 to say that there are ways and means of achieving something
means that there are several methods which will produce the
ways and means desired result
ex. All ways and means will be used to provide assistance to the
survivors.
 if a person delivers the goods, they do what is expected of them
deliver the goods or what they have promised to
ex. Let's hope that the new whiz-kid the boss hired can deliver the
goods!
explore all  if you explore all avenues, you try out every possibility in order to
avenues obtain a result or find a solution
ex. We can't say it's impossible until we've explored all avenues.
 this expression refers to a significant part of the effort or work
half the battle needed to achieve something
ex. We've already obtained a loan for the project - that's half the
battle!
 a person who thinks on their feet is capable of adjusting rapidly to
think on your feet new developments and making quick decisions
ex. Good lawyers need to be able to think on their feet when
pleading a case.
 if a person or organization is ahead of the pack, they are better
ahead of the or more successful than their rivals
pack ex. Our products will have to be more innovative if we want to
stay ahead of the pack.
 if a method has been tried and tested, it can be trusted because
tried and tested it has been used successfully in the past and is known to work
ex. There's no risk involved. The method has been tried and
tested.
 if you can walk and chew gum, you are able to do more than
walk and chew one thing at a time (often used negatively to indicate
gum incompetence)
ex. Why did you hire that guy? He can't walk and chew gum at
the same time!

Exercises
1. Write sentences using the idioms below.
a) half the battle

_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
b) ahead of the pack
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
c) on the ball
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
d) deliver the goods
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
e) tried and tested
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
f) ways and means
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
g) kill two birds with one stone
_______________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________
2. Write a dialog using the idioms learned.
Situation: You are talking to your boss about the project you just presented.

Unit 14 Interview Questions (1)
Preparation for an interview is essential. The list of questions below is designed to serve
as a guide so that you are not taken by surprise.
Tell me about yourself.

•to check your communication skill and how you present yourself
•the employer is really asking what you can offer and why you are
best fit for the job
What are your weaknesses?

•the employer is asking this question to see your self-awareness
•the employer is asking whether you are constantly trying to
improve yourself
Why should we hire you?

•it is asking about why the employer should hire you above the
other candidates. You have to know your competitive advantage
stressing your accomplishments qualifications and fit
•to check your confidence level
Are you a team player?

•asking about whether you get along with others - and can
succeed in a team setting
•to discuss a specific example of a good team experience
Why do you want to work for our company?

•the employer wants to know whether the candidate has
researched about the company or not
•the hiring manager wants to make sure that you are sincerely
interested in the job and will be motivated to perform if hired

Unit 15 Interview Questions (2)
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

•the interviewer is looking for evidence of career goals and
ambitions
Tell me about a time when you failed.
• No one wins all the time, so discuss forthright what you learned
from the situation.
• the interviewer may also want to hear how you handled any
resulting fallout
Tell me about a time you faced an ethical dilemma?

• the interviewer is looking for evidence of your high ethical
standard and honesty
Tell me about the worst boss you ever had?

•to understand how much a candidate has learned from previous
bad experiences with managers
Why do you want to leave you current job?

• the interviewer wants to make sure that you won't walkout after
six months and you'll be satisfied in your position

Exercises
Answer the questions from the interviewer.
A – Interviewee B – Interviewer
1.
A: Good morning.
B: Good morning, Ms. Evans. Welcome to ABC Company.
A: I am glad for the chance to be interviewed.
B: What specific job are you applying for?
A: I am an engineer and I would like to try to get the job you advertised on the Net last
week.
B: Okay. Tell something about yourself?
A: __________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
B: What are your weaknesses?
A: __________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
B: Thanks for letting us know. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
A: __________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
B: I’m glad to hear that. Thank you.
2.
A: Good morning, I am here for my interview.

B: Hello, nice to meet you. I’m Mr. Collins. Have you had any trouble finding this
place?
A: No problem.
B: So why do you want to work for our company?
A: __________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
B: I see. Then, why should we hire you?
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
A: That’s great. Tell me about a time when you failed?
B: __________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
A: Why do you want to leave your current job?
B: __________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
A: We appreciate hearing that about you!

REFERENCES
1. Passages
https://www.learn-english-today.com/business-english/A-business-english-
contents.html
https://www.learn-english-today.com/proverbs/proverbs.html
https://www.fluentu.com/blog/business-english/business-english-idioms-and-
phrases/
https://www.moresteam.com/toolbox/trend-chart.cfm
http://www.businessenglishebook.com/business-english-vocabulary/business-
english-jargon-and-slang-2/
https://www.livecareer.com/career/advice/interview/interview-question-meaning
http://smartbusinesstrends.com/common-interview-questions-meaning-behind/
www.google.com/images

Business Vocabulary (PIA)

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Business Vocabulary (PIA)

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

BUSINESS VOCABULARY 5N

Pines International Academy Page1

1 Business idioms and Expressions (1) 3

2 Business idioms and Expressions (2) 5

3 Phrases used in Business Letters (1) 7

4 Phrases used in Business Letters (2) 8

7 Data/Trend Chart Vocabularies 15

8 Useful Phrases in Presenting Graphs 18

9 Useful Phrases for Presentations (1) 19

10 Useful Phrases for Presentations (2) 21

12 Abbreviations and Acronyms 25

13 Efficiency and Competency idioms 28

14 Interview Questions (1) 30

15 Interview Questions (2) 31

Pines International Academy Page2

Unit 1 Business Idioms and Expressions (1)

1. business is business - used to say that profit is the

Pines International Academy Page3

A. Fill the gaps in these sentences using the expressions learned.

2. He's a tough negotiator; he knows all the ____________________.

3. We've had a break and now we've got to _______________________________ again.

4. We can't conclude the deal without the director's _____________________.

6. The results announced seem suspicious – I think there's some _______________

7. An internship in that company would be a ____________________ for you – it might

8. His willingness to __________________________won the respect and approval of the

B. Write a dialogue using the expressions learned.

Pines International Academy Page4

Unit 2 Business Idioms and Expressions (2)

Company and People

Pines International Academy Page5

A. Rearrange the following words/phrases to make a complete and correct

2. was never mentioned I did all my name the spadework although

3. safe blue chip company in a it’s usually to invest

4. in smooth waters these days the company seems to be

5. are smokestack industries in residential areas no longer authorized

B. Write the correct words/phrases in the following dialogues.

1. A: Do you know Ted?

Pines International Academy Page6

Unit 3 Phrases Used in Business Letters (1)

Letter is an indispensable tool of communication in business. Business letters are

 Dear Mr. Brown

 I am contacting you for the following reasons…

 If we can be of any further assistance, please let us know.

Pines International Academy Page7

Unit 4 Phrases Used in Business Letters (2)

Business Letters Content and Purpose

 Thank you for contacting us.

 We would appreciate it if you would ...

 Would you like us to

 We are pleased to announce that ...

 We regret to inform you that ...

 I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with ...

 We are sorry for the delay in replying to...

Pines International Academy Page8

 We are pleased to place an order with your company for…

 Please send us your price list.

 Our terms of payment are as follows...

 We look forward to a successful working relationship in the

 I look forward to seeing you next week.

Pines International Academy Page9

Pines International Academy Page10

 Unit 5 Business Proverbs

The advice given in proverbs is generally based on experience or a traditionally-held

___ _ ___

___________________________: _, I will introduce our company.