The most useful English phrasal verbs for business meetings help you introduce topics, manage discussions, and agree on next steps. Key examples include "bring up" (to introduce a topic), "follow up" (to continue with something later), and "wrap up" (to conclude a meeting). Mastering these will make your professional communication clearer and more natural.
Navigating a professional meeting in English can be challenging. You know the vocabulary for your industry, but to truly sound fluent and confident, you need to master the phrases native speakers use every day. This is where phrasal verbs become essential. Understanding and using the most common English phrasal verbs for business meetings will elevate your professional communication skills and help you participate more effectively. This guide will walk you through the top 10 verbs you need to know, complete with clear definitions and practical examples.
The Top 10 English Phrasal Verbs for Business Meetings
Here are the essential phrasal verbs that will help you handle any professional discussion, from brainstorming sessions to project updates.
How do you use 'bring up'?
Meaning: To introduce a topic or subject for discussion.
Example: "Before we move on, I'd like to bring up the Q4 budget. We need to finalize the numbers this week."
How do you use 'go over'?
Meaning: To review, examine, or discuss something in detail.
Example: "Let's quickly go over the main points from our last meeting to make sure everyone is on the same page."
How do you use 'follow up'?
Meaning: To take further action or communicate with someone after a previous event.
Example: "Thanks for the great ideas. I will follow up with an email summarizing the action items by the end of the day."
How do you use 'wrap up'?
Meaning: To finish or conclude something.
Example: "We have about five minutes left, so let's start to wrap up the discussion."
How do you use 'look into'?
Meaning: To investigate or research a problem or situation.
Example: "The client reported a bug in the software. Our technical team will look into it immediately."
How do you use 'put off' or 'push back'?
Meaning: To postpone or delay something to a later time or date.
Example: "We have to put off the product launch until next month because of a supply chain issue. Can we push back the marketing meeting to next week?"
How do you use 'come up with'?
Meaning: To think of and suggest an idea, plan, or solution.
Example: "The team needs to come up with a new marketing strategy for the new year."
How do you use 'carry out'?
Meaning: To perform or complete a task, plan, or order.
Example: "Now that the plan is approved, it's time to carry out the first phase of the project."
How do you use 'deal with'?
Meaning: To manage, handle, or take action on a problem or task.
Example: "Sarah from the customer service department will deal with all client complaints directly."
How do you use 'draw up'?
Meaning: To prepare and write a formal document, such as a contract, plan, or agreement.
Example: "Our legal team will draw up the contract and send it over for your review by Friday."
How to Practice These English Phrasal Verbs for Business Meetings
Knowing these verbs is the first step; using them confidently is the goal. Here are a few tips to help you integrate them into your professional vocabulary:
- Active Listening: Pay close attention during your next meeting (or while watching business-related TV shows) and note down when you hear these phrasal verbs used.
- Start Small: Choose one or two verbs from this list and make it your goal to use them in your next conversation or email.
- Create Your Own Examples: Write sentences using each phrasal verb that relate directly to your job or industry. This makes them more memorable and easier to recall.
By adding these essential English phrasal verbs for business meetings to your vocabulary, you'll not only understand more of the conversation but also be able to contribute your ideas with greater clarity and confidence. Consistent practice is the key to making them a natural part of your professional communication toolkit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a phrasal verb in business English?
A phrasal verb in business English is a common phrase made up of a verb and another element (like an adverb or preposition) that has a specific meaning in a professional context. For example, 'look into' means 'investigate' and is frequently used in offices and meetings.
Why are phrasal verbs important in professional communication?
Phrasal verbs are important because they are frequently used by native English speakers in everyday conversation, including in the workplace. Using them makes your English sound more natural, fluent, and professional, and helps you better understand the nuances of workplace discussions.
Can I avoid using phrasal verbs in meetings?
While you can often find a more formal, single-word alternative (e.g., use 'postpone' instead of 'put off'), avoiding phrasal verbs completely can make your speech sound unnatural or overly formal. To communicate effectively, it's best to learn and use the most common ones.
How can I remember new phrasal verbs for work?
To remember new phrasal verbs, try grouping them by topic (like meetings or projects), use flashcards, or write example sentences that are relevant to your own job. The key is to practice using them in context, both in writing and speaking, as soon as you learn them.