20 Must-Know Phrasal Verbs for Business Discussions

In the world of business English, a well-known challenge for non-native speakers is understanding and applying phrasal verbs.?

Phrasal verbs can be tricky because they're made up of a verb followed by one or more prepositions. Furthermore, a phrasal verb can have several meanings depending on the context.

But once you get the hang of them, they can make your English sound more professional and will add variety to the way you express yourself.

Understanding Phrasal Verbs

Phrasal verbs are everywhere in English, whether in business communication or day-to-day English. They add layers of meaning and context to simple verbs, allowing speakers to convey precise actions and intentions.?

For instance, consider the phrasal verb "to follow up." On its own, "follow" simply suggests moving behind someone. Yet, when combined with "up," it transforms into a crucial term in business discussions, signifying the act of pursuing or continuing an action or discussion.

Benefits of Mastering Phrasal Verbs

There are multiple benefits to mastering phrasal verbs in the field of business English.?

Firstly, they enhance clarity and efficiency in communication. Instead of relying on lengthy explanations, the proficient use of phrasal verbs enables speakers to convey complex ideas more objectively.

Additionally, mastering phrasal verbs demonstrates linguistic competence and cultural awareness.

20 commonly used phrasal verbs in business discussions

1. Follow up

To take further action or continue a discussion.

Example: "I'll follow up with the client to discuss their feedback on the proposal."

2. Reach out

To make contact or communicate with someone.

Example: "I'll reach out to the marketing team to get their input on the campaign."

3. Touch base

To make contact or connect briefly with someone.

Example: "Let's touch base next week to review the project status."

4. Back up

To provide support or evidence for a claim or decision.

Example: "We need to back up our proposal with data from our market research."

5. Bring up

To introduce or mention a topic for discussion.

Example: "I'd like to bring up some concerns about our budget projections."

6. Break down

To analyze or explain something in detail.

Example: "Let's break down the costs of the project to see where we can make cuts."

7. Carry out

To perform or execute a task or plan.

Example: "We need to carry out the marketing campaign according to the timeline."

8. Cut back

To reduce or decrease something, usually expenses or resources.

Example: "We'll have to cut back on travel expenses to stay within budget."

9. Get ahead

To make progress or succeed, often in comparison to others.

Example: "We need to innovate to get ahead in the competitive market."

10. Put off

To postpone or delay something.

Example: "Let's put off the meeting until next week when everyone is available."

11. Run into

To encounter a problem or difficulty unexpectedly.

Example: "We ran into some issues with the new software implementation."

12. Set up

To establish or arrange something.

Example: "We need to set up a meeting with the stakeholders to discuss the project."

13. Sort out

To resolve or solve a problem or issue.

Example: "Let's meet tomorrow to sort out the logistical challenges."

14. Take on

To accept responsibility or a task.

Example: "I'm willing to take on the leadership role for this project."

15. Work out

To find a solution or reach an agreement through discussion or negotiation.

Example: "We need to work out a compromise that satisfies both parties."

16. Go over

To review or examine something in detail.

Example: "Let's go over the sales report to identify areas for improvement."

17. Bring in

To introduce or involve someone or something new.

Example: "We should bring in an expert to advise us on the market trends."

18. Hold off

To delay or postpone something temporarily.

Example: "Let's hold off on making a decision until we have more information."

19. Keep up

To maintain the same pace or level as others.

Example: "We need to keep up with our competitors to stay relevant in the market."

20. Look into

To investigate or examine something.

Example: "We'll look into the customer complaints to address any issues."

Practical Ways to Learn and Use Phrasal Verbs

For non-native speakers, adopting phrasal verbs may seem daunting initially. However, with dedication and strategic practice, mastery is within reach. Here are some practical ways to learn and incorporate phrasal verbs into your speech:

Contextual Learning

Surround yourself with business-related materials, such as articles, reports, or presentations, and identify phrasal verbs within them. Analyze how they are used in different contexts to grasp their meanings and applications.

Adopt a Review Routine?

Create flashcards on the Quizlet app and set aside five minutes a day to review newly learned phrasal verbs. Reviewing is an essential aspect of building your phrasal verb repertoire.

Put into Practice

Actively engage with phrasal verbs by incorporating them into your daily vocabulary and writing. Challenge yourself to use them in emails, meetings, or conversations, gradually integrating them into your speech patterns.

Conclusion

Mastering phrasal verbs is a pivotal step in enhancing proficiency and fluency in business English for non-native speakers. By practicing consistently, you will soon build your phrasal verb repertoire and, therefore, achieve more variety and objectivity in your English communication.?

Next Steps...

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