Business English
What is Business English? Definition, Content and Why It Matters
What exactly is Business English -- and why is good everyday English not enough for the workplace? Many professionals and managers in Germany face this question when international emails, meetings, or negotiations come up. Business English encompasses far more than specialist vocabulary: it is about the right tone, the appropriate register, and cultural conventions. In this interactive lesson, you will explore the five core areas of Business English, avoid common mistakes German speakers make, and practise both formal and informal phrases with hands-on exercises.
Topics
Learning Content
Business English: More Than Just Vocabulary
In today's globalised business world, Business English is a key competence for anyone working internationally. But what sets it apart from general English? The core lies in three areas: a specialised vocabulary for emails, meetings, and negotiations, the right language register (formal vs. informal), and knowledge of cultural business conventions in English-speaking countries.
This lesson guides you through the most important aspects:
- Formal and informal phrases for every business situation
- The five core areas: emails, meetings, presentations, negotiations, small talk
- False friends and common mistakes that German speakers should avoid
- Practical exercises and quizzes for immediate application
With over 15 interactive exercise blocks -- from fill-in-the-blanks to matching exercises and a final quiz -- you will practise effectively and hands-on. Also watch the video for a visual explanation of the key concepts.
Includes interactive exercises and final test. Duration: approx. 25 minutes.
Email Vocabulary
0/6 learned
I am writing to...
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Please find attached...
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Could you please...
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I look forward to...
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Kind regards
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As discussed...
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Language Register: Formal vs. Informal
Rule
In Business English, we distinguish two main registers: formal and informal. You use the formal register for first contacts, official documents, and superiors. The informal register is suitable for colleagues and established business relationships. The key lies in correctly assessing the situation.
Examples
"I would appreciate it if you could send me the report by Friday."
Formal and polite -- perfect for a request to a business partner.
"Could you send over the report by Friday?"
Informal but professional -- suitable for colleagues you know well.
"Send me the report till Friday."
Too direct and grammatically questionable ('till' instead of 'by'). This sounds like a command and is impolite in a business context.
"I am writing to enquire about your services."
Classic formal opening for business emails to unknown recipients.
Tips
- •The less you know someone, the more formally you should write
- •Use 'would', 'could', and 'might' for polite requests
- •Avoid contractions (don't, can't) in formal emails
- •When in doubt: better too formal than too casual
Tip
Pro Tip: Germans tend to be too direct when writing in English. Instead of 'I need the report tomorrow', say 'It would be great if you could have the report ready by tomorrow.' This indirect phrasing sounds much more professional in an English-speaking business environment.
Exercise 1: Formal Phrases
I am writing to ______ about the position advertised on your website.
Exercise 2: True or False?
'Dear Sir or Madam' is an appropriate salutation when you don't know the recipient's name.
The Five Core Areas
The Five Core Areas of Business English
Business English can be divided into five key areas that recur constantly in professional life. Each area has its own vocabulary, phrases, and cultural conventions.
1. Emails and Business Correspondence
The most frequent point of contact in international business. The right tone determines the success of your communication. Formal openings, clear structure, and polite closings are essential.
2. Meetings and Conference Calls
From the agenda to the follow-up: meetings require specific vocabulary for chairing, summarising, and delegating tasks.
3. Presentations
Whether for clients or internal teams -- a convincing presentation in English needs signpost language, transitions, and a clear structure.
4. Negotiations
The most diplomatic area of Business English. The ability to phrase things indirectly and express compromises elegantly is crucial.
5. Small Talk and Networking
Often underestimated but essential for building business relationships. The ability to chat casually about neutral topics opens doors.
Essential Business English Vocabulary
6 words
to chair a meeting
To lead or moderate a meeting
Sarah will chair the meeting this afternoon.
to follow up
To contact someone again after a meeting or conversation
I will follow up with an email summarising our discussion.
stakeholder
nounA person or group with an interest or stake in a project or company
We need to keep all stakeholders informed about the changes.
deadline
nounThe latest date or time by which something must be completed
The deadline for the proposal is next Friday.
to negotiate
verbTo discuss something to reach an agreement
We need to negotiate the terms of the contract.
agenda
nounA list of topics to be discussed at a meeting
Could you send the agenda before the meeting?
Game: Word Scramble -- Business Vocabulary
Matching: Formal vs. Informal
Click on a word on the left and then on the matching translation on the right.
Common Mistakes by German Speakers
Common Mistakes by German Speakers
German native speakers frequently make mistakes in Business English that stem from direct translation. These 'false friends' and cultural differences can be embarrassing or even damaging to business relationships.
The most common problem areas:
- Overly direct communication: 'You must send the report' sounds like a command in English. Better: 'Could you please send the report?'
- False friends: 'Become' does not mean 'bekommen' (= to get/receive), 'eventually' does not mean 'eventuell' (= possibly), 'actual' does not mean 'aktuell' (= current)
- Missing politeness markers: In German, people get to the point faster. In English, a polite introduction is expected.
- Wrong form of address: Germans often write 'Dear Mr. Thomas' instead of 'Dear Mr. Smith' (surname, not first name)
Sentence Builder: Polite Business Sentences
Translation: Ich würde es schätzen, wenn Sie den Bericht senden könnten.
Translation: Business Phrases
German
Könnten Sie mir bitte die aktualisierten Zahlen schicken?
Cultural Note
Cultural Note: In Anglo-Saxon business culture, small talk is not just polite -- it is business-critical. Never start meetings directly with the agenda topic. First ask about the weekend, the weather, or the journey. This shows interest and builds the necessary foundation of trust.
Exercise 3: Choose the Right Phrasing
How do you start a formal email to an unknown business partner?
Final Quiz: Business English
What is the main difference between Business English and General English?
More Lessons
English Proofreading for Academic Texts: What You Need to Know
Academic Writing in English: The Complete Guide for German Students
English Proofreading: 10 Tricks for Error-Free Texts
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