B2- LGF - Language for Negotiations B2 Business English

Language of Negotiations

Vocabulary and Speaking

B2 Business English

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Warm-up: Discussion QuestionsInitiating and Conducting Negotiations Phrasal Verbs for Negotiations

Warm-up

Speak Up

What qualities do you think are essential for effective negotiation in a business setting?

Speak Up

In your opinion, what are the biggest challenges people face when negotiating in a business setting?

Speak Up

Outside of the work environment, where do you often find yourself negotiating?

Initiating & Conducting Negotiations

Sections:

Actions Adjectives

Initiating & Conducting Negotiations:

Actions

Click on a term to learn more about it.

• advocate
• broker
• concede
• counter-offer
• escalate

• leverage

• mediate
• navigate
• propose

Initiating & Conducting Negotiations:

Phrasal Verbs: Initiating Discussions

Complete the sentences with your own ideas. You can click on the phrase to see an example.

more employee training programs.

1. I would like to advocate for more... 2. I successfully brokered an agreement between... 3. I will never concede that...

two conflicting departments.

abandoning ethics will result in long-term success.

Initiating & Conducting Negotiations:

Phrasal Verbs: Initiating Discussions

Complete the sentences with your own ideas. You can click on the phrase to see an example.

negotiating employment terms.

1. I feel like I must counter-offer when... 2. I try to avoid escalating issues by... 3. I leverage my strengths by...

addressing concerns directly.

staying proactive in identifying new opportunities.

Initiating & Conducting Negotiations:

Phrasal Verbs: Initiating Discussions

Complete the sentences with your own ideas. You can click on the phrase to see an example.

remain neutral.

1. When mediating discussions, it is important to... 2. An issue that may be difficult to navigate is... 3. Proposing compromises may be difficult because...

effectively prioritizing tasks.

it requires striking a perfect balance.

Initiating & Conducting Negotiations:

Adjectives

Click on a term to learn more about it.

• mutually beneficial

• strategic
• win-win

• assertive
• collaborative
• concessionary

Initiating & Conducting Negotiations:

Phrasal Verbs: Initiating Discussions

Complete the sentences with your own ideas. You can click on the phrase to see an example.

presenting ideas that are supported with strong evidence.

1. I am more assertive when... 2. I seek collaborative opportunities when... 3. A concessionary attitude is required when...

facing complex projects.

negotiating with clients.

Initiating & Conducting Negotiations:

Phrasal Verbs: Initiating Discussions

Complete the sentences with your own ideas. You can click on the phrase to see an example.

1. Mutually beneficial solutions are difficult to reach because... 2. Something that requires strategic planning is... 3. The last win-win solution I was a part of was...

finding common ground can be challenging.

launching a new product.

a collaborative effort that increased efficiency and improved team morale.

Phrasal Verbs for Negotiations

Sections:

Initiating Discussions Exchanging Information Negotiating Terms Responding to Proposals Reaching Agreements Addressing Concerns Concluding Negotiations

Phrasal Verbs for Negotiations

Initiating Discussions

Click on a term to learn more about it.

bring up open up put forth

Phrasal Verbs for Negotiations

Initiating Discussions

Complete the sentences with your own ideas. You can click on the phrase to see an example.

interesting topics to keep conversations enjoyable.

1. In social situations, I often bring up... 2. Opening up a dialogue with my colleagues helps... 3. I recently put forth a plan to...

build a stronger sense of trust.

improve communication within our department.

Phrasal Verbs for Negotiations

Exchanging Information

Click on a term to learn more about it.

lay out go over fill in

Phrasal Verbs for Negotiations

Exchanging Information

Complete the sentences with your own ideas. You can click on the phrase to see an example.

a detailed schedule.

1. When planning an event, I often lay out... 2. To stay updated, I typically go over... 3. A document I often have to fill in is...

industry news and advancements.

my monthly invoice.

Phrasal Verbs for Negotiations

Negotiating Terms

Click on a term to learn more about it.

draw up hold out back down

Phrasal Verbs for Negotiations

Negotiating Terms

Complete the sentences with your own ideas. You can click on the phrase to see an example.

key discussion points.

1. In preparation for the meeting, I'll draw up... 2. In difficult situations, I try to hold out for... 3. Something I won't back down on is...

positive outcomes.

standing up for my values.

Phrasal Verbs for Negotiations

Responding to Proposals

Click on a term to learn more about it.

hold off look into take up

Phrasal Verbs for Negotiations

Responding to Proposals

Complete the sentences with your own ideas. You can click on the phrase to see an example.

1. I'll hold off on a decision when... 2. Before making a decision, I'll look into... 3. In the future, I plan to take up...

I need more information.

all available options.

new opportunities for personal growth.

Phrasal Verbs for Negotiations

Reaching Agreements

Click on a term to learn more about it.

bring about come to terms with work through

Phrasal Verbs for Negotiations

Reaching Agreements

Complete the sentences with your own ideas. You can click on the phrase to see an example.

set small achievable goals.

1. To bring about positive change in my life, I... 2. In business relationships, it is important to come to terms with... 3. I am able to work through stress by...

differing perspectives.

taking short breaks and practicing deep breathing.

Phrasal Verbs for Negotiations

Addressing Concerns

Click on a term to learn more about it.

get around iron out work out

Phrasal Verbs for Negotiations

Addressing Concerns

Complete the sentences with your own ideas. You can click on the phrase to see an example.

by finding alternative solutions.

1. I get around everyday obstacles by... 2. Ironing out the details of problems helps me... 3. Working out solutions to problems is easiest when...

achieve smoother outcomes.

I approach them with a calm mindset.

Phrasal Verbs for Negotiations

Concluding Negotiations

Click on a term to learn more about it.

round off settle on wrap up

Phrasal Verbs for Negotiations

Concluding Negotiations

Complete the sentences with your own ideas. You can click on the phrase to see an example.

having a nice dinner.

1. I like to round off my workweek by... 2. A challenging thing for my friends to settle on is... 3. Before going to bed, I wrap up the day by...

choosing a movie to watch.

reading a book.

escalate

Usage Tips

Verb

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"To" + higher authorities or the next level (e.g., escalate to the supervisor)

To increase in intensity or seriousness, especially in a disagreement or conflict, often leading to involving higher authorities or taking more severe actions.

Other Useful Information:

Formal vs. Informal: "Escalate" is formal and is often used in professional or serious contexts. Related Verbs: intensify, heighten, elevate Expressions with "Escalate": escalate a situation, escalate a conflict, escalate to higher management

Sample Sentences:

The disagreement between the two parties began to escalate, requiring intervention from upper management. It's important to address issues early to prevent them from escalating into major conflicts.

Discussion Question:

Can you share a situation where a disagreement or issue escalated at work or in your personal life? How was it resolved?

wrap up

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Words Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"Meeting" or "presentation" (e.g., wrap up a meeting) "Project" or "task" (e.g., wrap up a project)

To complete or finish something, typically by summarizing, finalizing, or concluding.

Sample Sentences:

The presenter took a moment to wrap up the key points before concluding the meeting. Let's wrap up this project by addressing any remaining tasks and ensuring everything is in order.

Other Useful Information:

Formal vs. Informal: "Wrap up" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: "Wrap up" is separable. For example, "Let's wrap the meeting up." Related Terms: conclude, finish, summarize Expressions: wrap up a meeting, wrap up a presentation, wrap up a project

Discussion Question:

How do you like to wrap up a busy workday?

go over

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Words Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"The details" or "the plan" (e.g., go over the details of a proposal) "A document" or "a report" (e.g., go over a document before submission)

To review, examine, or discuss something in detail, often to ensure understanding or clarity.

Sample Sentences:

Other Useful Information:

Before finalizing the agreement, it's essential to go over the terms one more time. During the meeting, the team will go over the project milestones and address any concerns.

Formal vs. Informal: "Go over" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: "Go over" is inseparable. Related Terms: review, examine, discuss Expressions: go over details, go over a plan, go over a document

Discussion Question:

Share a challenge you faced when going over a plan with a team. How did you overcome it?

round off

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Words Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"Project" or "presentation" (e.g., round off a project) "Evening" or "celebration" (e.g., round off an evening)

To complete or finish something in a satisfying or well-rounded manner; to add a concluding element to make a whole.

Sample Sentences:

Other Useful Information:

The team worked together to round off the project with a successful presentation. She decided to round off the evening by expressing gratitude to everyone who attended.

Formal vs. Informal: "Round off" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: "Round off" is separable. For example, "We need to round the event off with a thank-you message." Related Terms: conclude, finish, wrap up Expressions: round off a project, round off an evening, round off a celebration

Discussion Question:

What's your favorite way to round off a meal ?

mutually beneficial

Usage Tips

Adjective

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"For" + the parties involved (e.g., mutually beneficial for both companies)

Describing an arrangement, agreement, or interaction that brings advantages or positive outcomes to all parties involved.

Other Useful Information:

Sample Sentences:

Formal vs. Informal: "Mutually beneficial" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Related Adjectives: advantageous, win-win, favorable Expressions with "Mutually Beneficial": mutually beneficial agreement, mutually beneficial collaboration, be mutually beneficial

The collaboration between the two companies was mutually beneficial, leading to increased success for both. In negotiations, the goal is to find solutions that are mutually beneficial for everyone at the table.

Discussion Question:

Can you share an example from your experience where a mutually beneficial arrangement or agreement contributed to a positive outcome?

come to terms with

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Words Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"A loss" or "a challenge" (e.g., come to terms with a loss) "Reality" or "situation" (e.g., come to terms with the reality of the situation)

To accept or reconcile oneself to a situation, fact, or condition, often after a period of struggle or resistance.

Sample Sentences:

Other Useful Information:

It took time for her to come to terms with the loss of her job. The team had to come to terms with the unexpected challenges posed by the project.

Formal vs. Informal: "Come to terms with" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: Come to terms with" is not separable. Related Terms: accept, reconcile, make peace with Expressions: come to terms with a loss, come to terms with a challenge, come to terms with reality

Discussion Question:

What is a reality that many people have a difficult time coming to terms with?

navigate

Usage Tips

Verb

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"Through" + a situation or challenge (e.g., navigate through a difficult decision)

To find a way or manage through a situation, often implying skillful maneuvering through challenges.

Sample Sentences:

She had to navigate through the complex project requirements to meet the deadline. Successfully navigating a negotiation involves understanding the interests of all parties.

Other Useful Information:

Formal vs. Informal: "Navigate" is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Related Verbs: maneuver, handle, steer Expressions with "Mediate": navigate a process, navigate through challenges, skillfully navigate

Discussion Question:

Can you share an experience where you had to navigate through a challenging task or situation, and what strategies did you use?

mediate

Usage Tips

Verb

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"Between" + conflicting parties (e.g., mediate between two colleagues) "In" + the discussion or negotiation (e.g., mediate in a business dispute)

To help people in a disagreement find a solution by getting involved and guiding the discussion.

Sample Sentences:

Our manager was asked to mediate between the conflicting teams to find a common ground. Mediating discussions can lead to mutually beneficial outcomes.

Other Useful Information:

Formal vs. Informal: "Mediate" is formal and commonly used in professional or conflict resolution contexts. Related Verbs: arbitrate, negotiate, intervene Expressions with "Mediate": mediate a dispute, mediate a resolution, mediate between parties

Discussion Question:

Can you share an experience where someone had to mediate in a conflict, and how did it impact the final resolution?

look into

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Words Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"The matter" or "the issue" (e.g., look into the matter) "For" + information or details (e.g., look into options for improvement)

To investigate, examine, or research a matter in order to gather more information or understanding.

Sample Sentences:

Other Useful Information:

The team will look into the potential challenges before finalizing the project plan. It's essential to look into customer feedback to improve our products.

Formal vs. Informal: "Look into" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: "Look into" is inseparable. Related Terms: investigate, examine, research Expressions: look into a matter, look into an issue, look into options

Discussion Question:

What was a recent problem you faced that you had to look into in order to find a proper resolution?

get around

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Words Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"Obstacle" or "challenge" (e.g., get around a scheduling obstacle) "Limitation" or "issue" (e.g., get around a budget limitation)

To find a way to overcome an obstacle, limitation, or problem; to navigate or bypass a challenge.

Sample Sentences:

Other Useful Information:

In a congested city, commuters often find creative ways to get around traffic delays. When faced with technical issues, a skilled IT professional can quickly get around the problem to ensure smooth operations.

Formal vs. Informal: "Get around" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: "Get around" is not separable. Related Terms: overcome, circumvent, bypass Expressions: get around an obstacle, get around a challenge, get around a limitation

Discussion Question:

Have you ever had to get around a problem by thinking creatively?

lay out

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Words Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"The details" or "the plan" (e.g., lay out the details of a proposal) "A roadmap" or "a strategy" (e.g., lay out a roadmap for success)

To present or explain information in a clear and organized manner, typically involving details or a plan.

Sample Sentences:

Other Useful Information:

It's important to lay out the key points before entering into negotiations. When discussing a project, it's helpful to lay out the timeline and objectives.

Formal vs. Informal: "Lay out" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: "Lay out" is separable. For example, "She laid the plan out during the presentation." Related Terms: present, explain, outline Expressions: lay out information, lay out a plan, lay out the details

Discussion Question:

From your work or personal life, what is some information that you have had to lay out for others?

bring up

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"For" + discussion topic (e.g., bring up options for consideration)

To introduce or mention a topic for discussion or consideration.

Other Useful Information:

Sample Sentences:

Formal vs. Informal: "Bring up" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: "Bring up" is separable. For example, "During the meeting, I brought some concerns up." Related Terms: raise, introduce, mention Expressions: bring up concerns, bring up a topic, bring up for discussion

During the negotiation, it's essential to bring up key points to ensure clarity. When discussing terms, it's important to bring up any concerns or potential issues.

Discussion Question:

What are some topics that you avoid bringing up among your friends? Why don't you talk about it?

propose

Usage Tips

Verb

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"To" + the audience or decision-makers (e.g., propose to the committee)

To suggest an idea, plan, or solution for consideration, often in a formal or organized manner.

Sample Sentences:

She decided to propose a new strategy during the team meeting. When negotiating, it's crucial to propose solutions that benefit all parties involved.

Other Useful Information:

Formal vs. Informal: "Propose" is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. Related Verbs: suggest, recommend, advocate Expressions with "Propose": propose an idea, propose a plan, formally propose

Discussion Question:

Think of a time when you had to propose an idea or plan. How was it received by others?

settle on

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Words Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"Option" or "choice" (e.g., settle on an option) "Date" or "plan" (e.g., settle on a date)

To reach a decision or agreement after considering various options or possibilities.

Sample Sentences:

Other Useful Information:

After much discussion, the team was able to settle on a design for the new product. The group spent hours trying to settle on a date for the upcoming event.

Formal vs. Informal: "Settle on" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: "Settle on" is not separable. Related Terms: decide on, agree on, choose Expressions: settle on an option, settle on a date, settle on a plan

Discussion Question:

Share a situation where you and your friends had to settle on a destination for a day trip.

broker

Usage Tips

Verb / Noun

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"Between" + parties involved in the negotiation (e.g., broker between two companies) "For" + the specific purpose or product (e.g., broker for a real estate transaction)

Verb: To negotiate or arrange transactions, especially in business. Noun: A person or entity that acts as an intermediary in negotiating or arranging transactions, typically in financial or real estate markets.

Other Useful Information:

Sample Sentences:

Formal vs. Informal: "Broker" is neutral and can be used formally or informally. Related Verbs: negotiate, arrange, mediate Related Nouns: negotiator, intermediary, middleman Expressions with "Broker": broker a deal, broker a compromise, broker between parties

She managed to broker a deal between the two companies. The real estate broker facilitated the sale of the property.

Discussion Question:

Can you share an experience where you had to broker a compromise or deal in a professional or personal setting? What strategies did you use?

collaborative

Usage Tips

Adjective

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"In" + a collaborative effort or project (e.g., in a collaborative initiative)

Involving people working together towards a common goal, emphasizing cooperation and joint effort.

Other Useful Information:

Sample Sentences:

Formal vs. Informal: "Collaborative" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal settings. Related Adjectives: cooperative, team-oriented, joint Expressions with "Collaborative": collaborative teamwork, collaborative approach, be collaborative

The team used a collaborative approach to solve the project challenges. A collaborative effort between departments led to the successful completion of the task.

Discussion Question:

Can you share an experience where collaboration played a key role in achieving a positive outcome, either at work or in a personal project?

bring about

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Words Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"A change" or "an improvement" (e.g., bring about a change in strategy) "Resolution" or "understanding" (e.g., bring about a resolution to a dispute)

To cause or make something happen, often referring to a change, result, or outcome.

Sample Sentences:

Other Useful Information:

The new policies aim to bring about a positive shift in workplace culture. Effective communication can bring about a resolution to conflicts within a team.

Formal vs. Informal: "Bring about" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: "Bring about" is separable. For example, "The team brought the transformation about through collaborative efforts." Related Terms: cause, induce, generate Expressions: bring about a change, bring about an improvement, bring about a resolution

Discussion Question:

Think of a historic moment in your country's history. What brought about this event/change?

draw up

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Words Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"A plan" or "a proposal" (e.g., draw up a plan for the project) "A contract" or "an agreement" (e.g., draw up a contract for the partnership)

To create, formulate, or prepare a document, plan, or proposal, often in a detailed and organized manner.

Sample Sentences:

Other Useful Information:

Before the presentation, the team will draw up a comprehensive plan outlining the project details. When entering negotiations, it's crucial to draw up a contract that clearly defines the terms.

Formal vs. Informal: "Draw up" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: "Draw up" is separable. For example, "They drew the proposal up before the meeting." Related Terms: Create, formulate, prepare Expressions: draw up a plan, draw up a proposal, draw up a contract

Discussion Question:

When was the last time you had to draw up a plan? What was it for?

work through

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Words Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"Issues" or "challenges" (e.g., work through project issues) "A problem" or "a situation" (e.g., work through a difficult situation)

To systematically address or resolve issues, problems, or challenges through effort, analysis, or discussion.

Sample Sentences:

The team needs to work through the issues hindering project progress. Couples often attend counseling to work through relationship challenges.

Other Useful Information:

Formal vs. Informal: "Work through" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: "Work through" is not separable. Related Terms: address, resolve, tackle Expressions: work through issues, work through challenges, work through a problem

Discussion Question:

Can you share an experience where working through a problem or challenge led to a positive outcome, either personally or professionally?

work out

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Words Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"Problem" or "solution" (e.g., work out a problem) "Details" or "arrangements" (e.g., work out the details of a plan)

To successfully resolve, solve, or finalize a problem, situation, or plan through effort, discussion, or negotiation.

Sample Sentences:

The team collaborated to work out a comprehensive strategy for the upcoming project. Despite initial challenges, the group managed to work out a mutually agreeable solution.

Other Useful Information:

Formal vs. Informal: "Work out" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: "Work out" is separable. For example, "Let's work the schedule out before confirming." Related Terms: resolve, settle, figure out Expressions: work out a problem, work out a solution, work out details

Discussion Question:

Can you think of a time when you had to work out a compromise with a friend or family member?

hold out

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"For" + desired outcome (e.g., hold out for a better deal) "Against" + challenges or pressure (e.g., hold out against adversity)

To resist or continue to survive in a difficult situation, often against challenges or pressure.

Sample Sentences:

Other Useful Information:

During tough negotiations, it's crucial to hold out for favorable terms. The team decided to hold out against market fluctuations to maintain stability.

Formal vs. Informal: "Hold out" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: "Hold out" is separable. For example, "The team held the negotiations out for a better agreement." Related Terms: resist, endure, persevere Expressions: hold out for, hold out against

Discussion Question:

Is there a purchase that you held out for until the right moment? Why did you wait before buying the item/service?

assertive

Usage Tips

Adjective

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"In" + a situation or communication style (e.g., assertive in a meeting)

Confidently expressing your thoughts, needs, or opinions in a clear and direct manner.

Other Useful Information:

Sample Sentences:

Formal vs. Informal: "Assertive" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal situations. Related Adjectives: confident, decisive, self-assured Expressions with "Assertive": assertive communication, assertive behavior, be assertive

Being assertive in a negotiation means clearly stating your position and expectations. She demonstrated assertive communication by expressing her ideas with confidence.

Discussion Question:

Can you think of a situation where being assertive was important in a professional or personal context? What was the result?

put forth

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Words Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"An idea" or "a proposal" (e.g., put forth an idea for consideration) "Effort" or "energy" (e.g., put forth effort to improve the situation)

To propose or present an idea, suggestion, or proposal for consideration or discussion.

Sample Sentences:

Other Useful Information:

During negotiations, it's crucial to put forth innovative solutions to reach agreements. When faced with challenges, team members are encouraged to put forth their ideas for improvement.

Formal vs. Informal: "Put forth" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: "Put forth" is separable. For example, "He put the suggestion forth during the meeting." Related Terms: propose, present, suggest Expressions: put forth an idea, put forth a proposal, put forth effort

Discussion Question:

Can you think of a situation where putting forth a specific proposal or suggestion helped achieve a positive outcome?

hold off

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"On" + an action or decision (e.g., hold off on a project) "Until" + a specific time or event (e.g., hold off until the results are available)

To delay or postpone an action, decision, or event for a certain period.

Sample Sentences:

Other Useful Information:

The team decided to hold off on the product launch until market conditions improved. Let's hold off on making a final decision until we have more information.

Formal vs. Informal: "Hold off" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: "Hold off" is separable. For example, "We decided to hold the meeting off until next week." Related Terms: postpone, delay, defer Expressions: hold off on, hold off until

Discussion Question:

What is a plan you are currently holding off on? Why are you postponing it?

counter-offer

Usage Tips

Noun / Verb

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"To" + the party making the counter-offer (e.g., counter-offer to the seller)

Noun: A new proposal made in response to the original offer during a negotiation. Verb: To make a new proposal in response to the original offer.

Other Useful Information:

Formal vs. Informal: "Counter-offer" is commonly used in formal negotiations. Related Verbs: proposal, offer, suggestion Expressions with "Counter-Offer": present a counter-offer, negotiate a counter-offer

Sample Sentences:

Instead of accepting the initial offer, he presented a counter-offer with revised terms. She decided to counter-offer after carefully considering the terms presented.

Discussion Question:

Can you think of a situation where making a counter-offer was beneficial in reaching a good outcome in a negotiation?

advocate

Usage Tips

Verb / Noun

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"For" + cause or policy (e.g., advocate for environmental conservation) "Against" + opposing cause or policy (e.g., advocate against discrimination)

Verb: To publicly support or recommend a particular cause or policy. Noun: A person who publicly supports or recommends a particular cause or policy.

Other Useful Information:

Sample Sentences:

Formal vs. Informal: "Advocate" is generally formal; consider "support" or "back" for informal contexts. Related Verbs: support, endorse, champion Related Nouns: supporter, proponent, champion Expressions with "Advocate": a strong advocate, an outspoken advocate, advocate for change

She decided to advocate for sustainable business practices. He is a passionate advocate for equal employment opportunities.

Discussion Question:

Discuss a time when someone advocated for a change in company policies or procedures. What did they advocate for and how did they succeed?

back down

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"From" + a position or decision (e.g., back down from a stance) "In" + a confrontation or argument (e.g., back down in a debate)

To withdraw from a position, decision, or argument, often due to pressure, confrontation, or reconsideration.

Sample Sentences:

In negotiations, it's important to stand firm on key points and not easily back down. Faced with opposition, she refused to back down from her principles.

Other Useful Information:

Formal vs. Informal: "Back down" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: "Back down" is inseparable. Related Terms: yield, concede, retract Expressions: back down from, back down in, back down on

Discussion Question:

Can you think of a situation where deciding not to back down played a significant role in achieving a positive outcome?

iron out

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Words Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"Issues" or "disputes" (e.g., iron out project issues) "Differences" or "details" (e.g., iron out differences in opinions)

To resolve or settle issues, disputes, or difficulties through discussion, negotiation, or clarification.

Sample Sentences:

Other Useful Information:

During the team meeting, members worked together to iron out the details of the upcoming project. After hours of negotiation, the diplomats managed to iron out the differences between the two nations.

Formal vs. Informal: "Iron out" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: "Iron out" is separable. For example, "We need to iron the details out before moving forward." Related Terms: resolve, settle, clarify Expressions: iron out issues, iron out disputes, iron out differences

Discussion Question:

When planning a vacation, how do you and your travel companions iron out destination preferences?

fill in

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Words Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"The details" or "the gaps" (e.g., fill in the details on a form) "An update" or "information" (e.g., fill in the team on recent developments)

To provide missing information, details, or updates, often to complete a form, document, or plan.

Sample Sentences:

Other Useful Information:

Before the meeting, please fill in the necessary details on the agenda. It's essential to fill in any gaps in the project timeline to ensure a smooth workflow.

Formal vs. Informal: "Fill in" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: "Fill in" is separable. For example, "I filled the form in with the necessary information." Related Terms: complete, provide, update Expressions: fill in details, fill in the gaps, fill in information

Discussion Question:

Can you recall a situation where filling in missing information was crucial for the success of a project or task?

open up

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"About" + the topic (e.g., open up about preferences) "To" + the person or group (e.g., open up to your colleagues)

To begin a discussion or reveal information, making communication more open and honest.

Other Useful Information:

Sample Sentences:

Formal vs. Informal: "Open up" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Separability: In this meaning, "open up" is inseparable. Alternative meanings of "open up" are separable. Related Terms: disclose, reveal, share Expressions: open up about, open up to

It's important to open up about your expectations during negotiations. When faced with challenges, opening up about concerns can lead to better understanding.

Discussion Question:

Why are people often hestiant about opening up about their problems?

win-win

Usage Tips

Adjective

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"For" + the parties involved (e.g., a win-win situation for both teams)

Describing a situation, agreement, or outcome where all parties involved benefit or gain something positive.

Other Useful Information:

Sample Sentences:

Formal vs. Informal: "Win-win" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Related Adjectives: mutually beneficial, advantageous, favorable Expressions with "Propose": win-win solution, win-win collaboration, be win-win

The negotiation resulted in a win-win solution that satisfied both companies. A win-win collaboration ensures that everyone involved achieves their goals.

Discussion Question:

Can you think of a recent win-win situation you found yourself in? Why do you think win-win situations often difficult to achieve?

leverage

Usage Tips

Verb / Noun

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"To" + what is being used or gained (e.g., leverage to enhance the deal)

Verb: To use something to your advantage, typically in negotiations or achieving a goal. Noun: The power or advantage gained by using a specific resource or circumstance.

Other Useful Information:

Formal vs. Informal: "Leverage" can be used in both formal and informal settings. Related Verbs: exploit, utilize, capitalize Related Nouns: advantage, influence, power Expressions with "Escalate": leverage a skill, leverage a resource, have leverage

Sample Sentences:

He knew how to leverage his skills to secure a better deal. The company had the leverage of a strong brand in the negotiation.

Discussion Question:

Can you think of a situation where someone successfully leveraged their strengths or resources in a negotiation or business deal?

strategic

Usage Tips

Adjective

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"In" + a strategic plan or approach (e.g., in a strategic decision)

Relating to carefully planned actions or decisions designed to achieve specific long-term goals.

Other Useful Information:

Sample Sentences:

Formal vs. Informal: "Strategic" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Related Adjectives: planned, calculated, deliberate Expressions with "Strategic": strategic decision, strategic approach, be strategic

The company adopted a strategic approach to expand its market presence. In negotiations, it's essential to think strategically to attain the best outcomes.

Discussion Question:

Can you share a situation where adopting a strategic mindset was crucial, either in your professional or personal life? How did it contribute to success?

take up

Usage Tips

Phrasal Verb

Words Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"The matter" or "the issue" (e.g., take up the matter of contract terms) "A proposal" or "a point" (e.g., take up a proposal for consideration)

To initiate or engage in a new aspect of negotiations, such as introducing a topic, addressing a point, or starting a discussion on a particular issue.

Sample Sentences:

In the meeting, the negotiators decided to take up the matter of pricing to reach a mutual agreement. The team is prepared to take up the proposal and discuss potential modifications.

Other Useful Information:

Formal vs. Informal: "Take up" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts within negotiation settings. Separability: Take up" is separable. For example, "The team took the suggestion up during the negotiation." Related Terms: initiate, address, introduce Expressions: take up a matter, take up an issue, take up a proposal

Discussion Question:

Share an experience where you decided to take up a new challenge or project. How did it impact your personal or professional growth?

concessionary

Usage Tips

Adjective

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"In" + a concessionary negotiation or approach (e.g., in a concessionary agreement)

Involving or related to making concessions, which are compromises or agreements made to reach a mutual understanding.

Other Useful Information:

Sample Sentences:

Formal vs. Informal: "Concessionary" is more formal and commonly used in professional or negotiation contexts. Related Adjectives: compromising, conciliatory, flexible Expressions with "Concessionary": concessionary agreement, concessionary approach, be concessionary

The negotiation process became more concessionary as both parties sought middle ground. A concessionary approach can be effective in finding solutions that satisfy all parties involved.

Discussion Question:

Can you think of a situation where a concessionary attitude helped in resolving a disagreement or negotiation? How did it contribute to a positive outcome?

concede

Usage Tips

Verb

Prepositions Often Used With the Term:

Definition:

"To" + the opposing party or idea (e.g., concede to the competitor's demands) "In" + a discussion or negotiation (e.g., concede in a debate)

To admit or yield, especially in a discussion or negotiation, by accepting or agreeing to the points made by the opposing party.

Sample Sentences:

Other Useful Information:

Despite strong arguments, she decided to concede certain points during the negotiation. It's essential to know when to concede in order to maintain a cooperative atmosphere.

Formal vs. Informal: "Concede" is formal and is commonly used in professional and academic contexts. Related Verbs: acknowledge, yield, admit Expressions with "Concede": concede a point, concede defeat, reluctantly concede

Discussion Question:

Can you think of a situation where conceding a point or compromise was necessary for a successful resolution?