The 10 most essential phrasal verbs for business meetings include 'bring up,' 'follow up,' 'put off,' 'go over,' and 'wrap up.' Mastering these common verb phrases will help you participate confidently, understand discussions, and communicate your ideas clearly and professionally.
Navigating professional communication in English can be challenging, especially when native speakers use idiomatic language. Phrasal verbs—verbs combined with a preposition or adverb—are everywhere in the corporate world. Learning the essential phrasal verbs for business meetings is a critical step toward fluency and sounding more natural at work.
Why Are Phrasal Verbs So Important in Professional Communication?
Phrasal verbs are a cornerstone of conversational English, and business settings are no exception. While you might know formal synonyms, using phrasal verbs correctly shows a deeper understanding of the language. They make your speech sound more fluid and less like a textbook. Using them helps you integrate better with colleagues and understand the nuances of office conversations, from casual updates to formal negotiations.
Your Guide to the 10 Essential Phrasal Verbs for Business Meetings
To help you improve your business English, we've compiled a list of ten key phrasal verbs. We'll explain what each one means and how to use it in a typical meeting scenario.
How do you use 'bring up'?
Meaning: To introduce a topic or subject for discussion.
This is perfect for when you need to raise a point that isn't on the official agenda.
- Example: "During the marketing update, I'd like to bring up the results from our latest social media campaign."
What does 'go over' mean?
Meaning: To review or examine something carefully.
Use this when you need to discuss a document, report, or set of figures with your team.
- Example: "Before we make a decision, let's go over the sales projections one more time."
When should I use 'follow up'?
Meaning: To take further action or continue communication about something later.
This is a crucial phrase for ensuring tasks are completed after a meeting ends.
- Example: "I will follow up with the IT department about the software issue and email everyone an update by Friday."
How do I use 'put off' or 'push back'?
Meaning: To postpone or delay something to a later time or date.
These are polite and common ways to suggest rescheduling. 'Push back' is very common in corporate English.
- Example: "Due to the client's scheduling conflict, we need to put off the project kickoff until next week."
- Example: "Can we push back the deadline by two days? We need more time to gather the data."
What is the meaning of 'look into'?
Meaning: To investigate or research a problem or situation.
This shows you are taking responsibility for finding more information.
- Example: "That's a valid concern about the budget. I will look into it and report back at our next meeting."
How do you use 'run by' someone?
Meaning: To tell someone about an idea or plan to get their opinion or approval.
This is a great collaborative phrase that shows you value your colleagues' input.
- Example: "This is a creative marketing concept, but I need to run it by the legal team before we proceed."
What does 'wrap up' mean?
Meaning: To finish or conclude something.
This is the perfect phrasal verb for signaling the end of a meeting or discussion.
- Example: "We have five minutes left, so let's wrap up by summarising the main action points."
How is 'call off' used?
Meaning: To cancel something that was planned.
This is different from postponing; it means the event will not happen at all.
- Example: "We have to call off the supplier meeting because their representative is unwell."
What does it mean to 'weigh in'?
Meaning: To give an opinion or join a discussion or argument.
Use this to politely interject with your perspective.
- Example: "If I could just weigh in here, I think we should consider the long-term impact of this decision."
What is the meaning of 'draw up'?
Meaning: To prepare a written document, such as a contract, proposal, or plan.
This is often used for official or formal documents that require careful preparation.
- Example: "Following our discussion, I will draw up a formal proposal and send it to you for review."
Tips for Mastering Essential Phrasal Verbs for Business Meetings
Knowing these verbs is the first step, but using them confidently takes practice. Here are a few tips to help you master them:
- Listen Actively: Pay attention to how native speakers use these phrases in meetings, on calls, and in emails.
- Context is Key: Don't just memorise definitions. Understand the context in which each phrasal verb is used.
- Start Small: Try to use one or two of these new phrasal verbs in your next meeting or email. Building confidence gradually is effective.
- Practice with a Colleague: Ask a trusted colleague or language partner to practice with you and give you feedback.
By incorporating these essential phrasal verbs for business meetings into your vocabulary, you'll enhance your professional communication skills and integrate more smoothly into any English-speaking workplace. Start practicing today to make a real difference in your career.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What's the difference between 'put off' a meeting and 'call off' a meeting?
'Put off' means to postpone or reschedule the meeting for a later time. The meeting will still happen, just not at the originally planned time. 'Call off' means to cancel the meeting entirely, with no immediate plan to reschedule it.
Can I use these phrasal verbs in formal business emails too?
Yes, absolutely. All the phrasal verbs listed here are standard in professional communication, both spoken and written. They are appropriate for emails, reports, and presentations, as well as meetings.
How can I remember so many English phrasal verbs?
To remember phrasal verbs, try grouping them by topic (like 'business meetings') or by the main verb (e.g., all phrasal verbs with 'put'). Create your own example sentences related to your job, and use flashcard apps like Anki or Quizlet for regular practice.
Are there any phrasal verbs I should avoid in a business setting?
Yes, some phrasal verbs are very informal or slang and should be avoided in professional contexts. For example, 'chill out' (relax) or 'mess up' (make a mistake) might be too casual. It's best to stick to standard business English vocabulary like the ones in this article.