Workplace English
Workplace English
Meetings, emails, deadlines, and feedback phrases you can use at work this week.
Section 1
Daily Work Communication
Word
Deadline
A deadline is a specific time or date by which something must be completed.
Example: I need to finish this report by Friday, that's the deadline.
Collocation
Could you take a look?
To briefly examine or inspect something.
Example: Could you take a look at this report when you have a moment?
Collocation
I'll get back to you.
I will contact you again later to provide information, an answer, or a response, typically after I have checked something or obtained more details.
Example: Thanks for your question; I'll get back to you with an answer by tomorrow.
Collocation
Could you get back to me by Friday?
Can you reply or respond to me by Friday?
Example: Please get back to me with your decision by tomorrow.
Collocation
What's the latest on this?
To ask for the most recent information, news, or update about a particular situation, topic, or event.
Example: I've been out of the loop all week; what's the latest on the merger talks?
Collocation
Can we push this back?
To delay or postpone an event, meeting, or deadline to a later time.
Example: Can we push this meeting back to next week?
Collocation
This is a priority.
This is the most important thing that needs attention or must be dealt with first.
Example: Finishing the annual report on time is a top priority for our team this quarter.
Collocation
Do you have a minute?
A polite way to ask if someone has a short amount of time to talk or help.
Example: Do you have a minute? I want to ask you something.
Collocation
Keep me in the loop.
To keep someone informed about developments and details concerning a particular matter.
Example: Please keep me in the loop regarding the project's progress.
Collocation
I'll loop you in.
To include someone in a discussion, plan, or information flow; to keep someone informed.
Example: Don't worry, I'll loop you in on the project details when I have them.
Collocation
I don't have bandwidth for that.
I don't have enough time, mental capacity, or energy to deal with or take on that task or situation.
Example: After working all day, I just don't have the bandwidth for a late-night meeting.
Collocation
Who owns this?
To inquire about the legal proprietor or possessor of an item or property.
Example: Who owns this beautiful old house?
Collocation
Let me know if you have any questions.
An idiomatic expression used to invite someone to ask questions or inform you if they need clarification or assistance.
Example: Please let me know if you have any questions after reviewing the document.
Collocation
Could you send me the file?
A common request for someone to electronically transmit a document, data, or digital content to the speaker.
Example: Please send me the file once you're done editing it.
Collocation
I'm following up on this.
To take further action concerning something that has already been mentioned or started, often to check progress, gather more information, or ensure a task is completed.
Example: I need to follow up on that email I sent last week.
Collocation
Let's sync up.
Let's coordinate, share updates, or meet to ensure we are aligned and working together effectively.
Example: Let's sync up tomorrow morning to discuss the project's progress.
Collocation
Please flag anything urgent.
To mark or identify something as important, requiring attention, or needing to be dealt with quickly.
Example: The manager asked us to flag any potential issues immediately.
Collocation
I'm tied up until 3.
To be very busy or occupied, making one unavailable for other activities or appointments.
Example: I'm tied up until 3, so I can't meet then.
Idiom
Can I pick your brain?
"Can I pick your brain?" is a polite way to ask someone for their knowledge or advice on a particular topic.
Example: Excuse me, Professor, can I pick your brain for a few minutes about my research project?
Collocation
I need this by end of day.
I require this item, task, or information to be completed or delivered before the current workday concludes.
Example: The urgent report is due soon, so I need this by end of day.
Collocation
Next steps
The actions, procedures, or stages that immediately follow a current one, usually in a sequence towards a goal or resolution.
Example: After reviewing the project proposal, we need to decide on the next steps.
Collocation
Status update
A report on the current situation or progress of something.
Example: The project manager will give us a status update tomorrow morning on the budget.
Section 2
Meetings
Collocation
Shall we get started?
A polite and common way to suggest beginning an activity, meeting, or task, inviting others to commence.
Example: Okay everyone, it's 10 o'clock. Shall we get started with today's agenda?
Collocation
Thanks for joining.
A polite expression of gratitude to someone for attending or participating in an event, meeting, or group activity.
Example: Thanks for joining our team meeting today, everyone.
Collocation
The purpose of this meeting is...
To clearly state the main reason, objective, or goal for a meeting, usually at the beginning of the discussion.
Example: The purpose of this meeting is to discuss the new project timeline.
Collocation
Let's go through the agenda.
To discuss, review, or examine the items listed on a plan or schedule for a meeting or event, usually in a systematic order.
Example: Before we begin, let's go through the agenda quickly to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Collocation
Sorry I'm late.
An apology for arriving after the expected or scheduled time.
Example: I quickly messaged my friend, "Sorry I'm late, traffic was terrible!"
Collocation
Can everyone hear me?
A common question asked to check if one's voice is audible and clear to a group, often at the start of a meeting, presentation, or public address.
Example: Before starting the online meeting, the host asked, "Can everyone hear me?" to ensure good audio.
Collocation
You're on mute.
This phrase is used in virtual meetings or calls to tell someone that their microphone is turned off, and therefore, no one can hear them speak.
Example: Sarah, I can't hear you. I think you're on mute.
Collocation
Could I ask a quick question?
A polite way to request permission to inquire about something, usually brief.
Example: Could I ask a quick question?
Collocation
Just to clarify...
Used to introduce a statement that explains something more clearly or provides additional information, often to prevent misunderstanding.
Example: Just to clarify, we need to submit the report by Friday, not Monday.
Collocation
Could you run that by me again?
A polite way to ask someone to repeat or explain something you didn't understand or hear clearly.
Example: Could you run that by me again?
Collocation
That's a good point.
A phrase used to acknowledge that someone has made a valid, relevant, or insightful remark or idea.
Example: You've made a really good point about the project timeline.
Collocation
I see your point, but...
To acknowledge that you understand someone's argument or perspective, but then introduce a counter-argument, different idea, or reservation.
Example: I see your point, but I still believe we need to explore other avenues.
Collocation
I see it a little differently.
To have a slightly different opinion or perspective on a matter compared to others.
Example: I see it a little differently.
Collocation
What if we tried this?
This is a polite and common way to suggest a new or alternative approach, idea, or method to solve a problem or improve a situation. It's often used when previous attempts haven't been successful or when exploring possibilities. The past tense 'tried' is used to express a hypothetical situation in the present or future, making the suggestion sound less demanding and more open for discussion.
Example: The initial plan didn't work out as expected. What if we tried this approach instead?
Collocation
I'd recommend that we...
A polite and common way to suggest a course of action for a group, indicating the speaker's advice or preference for what should happen.
Example: Considering the budget constraints, I'd recommend that we prioritize the most essential tasks.
Collocation
Let's take that offline.
To discuss a particular topic or issue privately, separately from the main group or public discussion, often because it's too specific, detailed, sensitive, or time-consuming for the current setting.
Example: The meeting was getting sidetracked, so the manager suggested, "Let's take that offline."
Collocation
Let's move on.
To proceed to the next topic or activity; to stop dwelling on a past event or issue and start dealing with new ones.
Example: We've discussed that point sufficiently, let's move on to the next agenda item.
Collocation
Who's taking this action item?
To accept responsibility for completing a specific task or task point, often assigned in a meeting.
Example: Could you please take an action item to follow up on this by Friday?
Collocation
To sum up...
Used to introduce a summary or a concluding statement, often at the end of a speech, discussion, or piece of writing. It means 'in conclusion' or 'briefly'.
Example: To sum up, our project aims to reduce energy consumption by 20% over the next five years.
Collocation
Let's wrap up.
To finish or conclude an activity, meeting, or discussion.
Example: Okay everyone, it's getting late, so let's wrap up this meeting.
Collocation
I'll send the notes after this.
To transmit or dispatch written information, often a summary or record, to someone, typically electronically or physically.
Example: I will send the notes after the meeting is over.
Collocation
Before we move on...
Used to transition from one topic, stage, or activity to the next; signifies a pause to check understanding or readiness before proceeding.
Example: Before we move on to the next agenda item, does anyone have any questions?
Collocation
Sorry to jump in.
An idiomatic expression used to apologize for interrupting a conversation, discussion, or activity.
Example: Sorry to jump in, but I have a quick question about that point.
Collocation
Could you walk us through that?
To explain something in a detailed, step-by-step manner, often showing how to do it or how it works.
Example: The consultant offered to walk the team through the new software's features.
Section 3
Email and Messaging
Collocation
Please find attached...
Used in formal written communication (especially emails) to direct the recipient to a document or file that has been included with the message.
Example: Please find attached the report you requested.
Collocation
I am writing to confirm...
A polite and formal way to state the purpose of a written communication (often an email or letter), which is to verify, make certain, or finalize a piece of information, an arrangement, or a previous discussion.
Example: I am writing to confirm our meeting scheduled for next Tuesday at 10 AM.
Collocation
Just a quick note to...
A common, informal opening used in emails, messages, or short written communications to introduce the main, brief purpose of the message. It implies the communication will be short and to the point.
Example: Just a quick note to remind you about tomorrow's meeting.
Collocation
Could you confirm you received this?
A polite request for verification or acknowledgment of receipt or understanding.
Example: Could you confirm you received this?
Collocation
As discussed...
Referring back to a previous conversation, meeting, or agreement; in accordance with what was talked about.
Example: As discussed, we will proceed with the new marketing strategy next quarter.
Collocation
Please see below.
To refer the reader to information or content that follows later in the same document, email, or communication.
Example: For a complete list of features and specifications, please see below.
Collocation
I've copied you in.
To include someone as a recipient (usually via email's 'Cc' field) so they are aware of the communication.
Example: Please copy me in on all future correspondence regarding this project.
Collocation
Kind regards
A polite closing phrase used at the end of letters and emails, similar to 'Best regards' or 'Sincerely'.
Example: Please find the report attached. Kind regards, Sarah Johnson.
Collocation
Looking forward to hearing from you.
An idiomatic expression used to convey anticipation or eagerness to receive a response or communication from someone.
Example: I'm looking forward to hearing from you regarding my application.
Collocation
Just circling back on this.
To return to a previous topic or discussion, often to follow up or provide an update.
Example: I'm just circling back on the email I sent yesterday about the meeting time.
Collocation
Just a gentle reminder...
A polite and soft way to remind someone about something, often used at the beginning of a communication to soften the tone and make the reminder less demanding.
Example: Just a gentle reminder that the report is due by Friday.
Collocation
Sorry for the delay in getting back to you.
A polite apology for taking a longer time than expected to respond to someone's message, request, or inquiry.
Example: Hi John, sorry for the delay in getting back to you; I've been swamped with work.
Collocation
Please let me know if this works.
Please tell me if this is acceptable, functional, or successful for you/the situation.
Example: Could you please let me know if this works for your schedule?
Collocation
I'll send a calendar invite.
To electronically transmit a request to another person or group to attend a scheduled event, which typically adds the event to their digital calendar.
Example: Could you please send a calendar invite for our next team meeting?
Collocation
Reply all
To send a response to every recipient of an original email, including the sender and all CC'd recipients.
Example: Please remember to reply all to the team announcement so everyone sees it.
Collocation
Happy to jump on a call.
Willing and available to quickly join a phone or video conference call, often implying eagerness or readiness to help.
Example: Sure, I'm happy to jump on a call whenever you're ready to discuss the proposal.
Collocation
Does this afternoon work for you?
Is this specific time or event convenient, suitable, or acceptable for you?
Example: Does this afternoon work for you?
Collocation
Please keep this in one thread.
To consolidate all related messages, discussions, or information into a single, continuous conversation, typically in digital communication platforms like email, chat, or forums.
Example: Please keep all your questions about the project in one thread.
Collocation
Please find the details below.
This phrase is a polite and common instruction used to direct someone's attention to information, data, or documents that are presented immediately following the statement, typically in an email, report, or webpage.
Example: Please find the details below regarding our new project timeline.
Collocation
Let me know a time that works.
Tell me or inform me of a time that is convenient or suitable for you.
Example: Let me know a time that works.
Section 4
Projects and Problem-Solving
Collocation
We're blocked on...
To be unable to proceed or make progress on a task, project, or issue because of an obstacle, unresolved item, or dependency.
Example: We're blocked on the final approval until legal reviews the contract.
Collocation
Meet a deadline
to finish work by the required time or date
Example: We have to meet the deadline by Friday afternoon.
Collocation
Miss a deadline
to fail to finish or submit something by the required time
Example: If we miss the deadline, the client may cancel the contract.
Collocation
That's out of scope.
Beyond the agreed-upon or defined limits, boundaries, or objectives of a particular task, project, discussion, or situation.
Example: Adding that extra feature would be completely out of scope for the current sprint.
Collocation
We need to escalate this.
To make a situation, problem, or conflict more intense, serious, or widespread; to raise it to a higher level of authority or urgency.
Example: If the customer isn't satisfied, we might need to escalate this to a manager.
Collocation
Let's find a workaround.
To discover or devise an alternative method or solution to a problem, especially when the usual or preferred method is not possible or not working.
Example: When the main system failed, we had to quickly find a workaround to keep operations running.
Collocation
The main challenge is...
Identifying the primary or most significant difficulty, obstacle, or problem in a given situation or endeavor.
Example: The main challenge is to complete the project on time and within budget.
Collocation
What's the root cause?
To ask about the fundamental, underlying, or original reason for a problem or phenomenon, rather than just its symptoms or immediate triggers.
Example: We need to understand, "What's the root cause of this decline in sales?"
Collocation
We need a decision by tomorrow.
To require that a choice, judgment, or resolution be made, often with a sense of urgency or an impending deadline.
Example: The board informed us that they truly need a decision on the merger by next week.
Phrasal verb
Let's kick this off.
A phrase used to suggest starting an activity, meeting, or event.
Example: Okay everyone, we have a lot to discuss, so let's kick this off with the first item on the agenda.
Phrasal verb
Sign off on
To formally approve or authorize something, often by signing a document.
Example: The project manager needs to sign off on all major changes before they are implemented.
Word
Deliverable
A deliverable is a product, result, or service that must be provided to a client or stakeholder.
Example: The final report is the main deliverable for this phase of the project.
Word
Milestone
A milestone is an important event or stage that marks significant progress or development.
Example: The completion of the new bridge was a major milestone for the city's infrastructure project.
Phrasal verb
Roll out
To officially launch a new product, flatten dough, or informally, to get out of bed.
Example: The tech company is excited to roll out its new gaming console this holiday season.
Phrasal verb
Hand over
To hand over means to give something to someone else, often because it is required or expected.
Example: I had to hand over my ID at the front desk.
Collocation
We're on track.
Making good progress and likely to achieve a goal or finish on time; progressing as planned or expected.
Example: The project is on track to be completed by the deadline.
Collocation
We're behind schedule.
This phrase indicates that a task, project, or event is not progressing at the expected rate and is later than planned. It means you haven't completed as much work as you should have by a particular time.
Example: The construction project is running behind schedule due to bad weather.
Collocation
Let's park that for now.
To postpone or temporarily set aside a discussion, decision, or action, often to deal with it later or to focus on something else currently.
Example: That's an interesting idea, but let's park that for now and come back to it after we've discussed the budget.
Collocation
What are the next steps?
A question asking about the sequence of actions, plans, or procedures that should follow after a current point or event.
Example: After this meeting, what are the next steps for our team?
Collocation
I'll take this forward.
To progress with a task, idea, or project; to advance it to the next stage or to a conclusion; to be responsible for making something move ahead.
Example: After our discussion, I'll take this feedback forward to the development team.
Word
Blocker
A blocker is a person or thing that obstructs movement or prevents progress.
Example: The fallen tree was a complete blocker on the road, so we had to find another route.
Collocation
We need to align on this.
To agree on something, to come to a common understanding or position regarding a specific topic, plan, or objective.
Example: Before we proceed, we must align on the project goals for clarity.
Section 5
Feedback and Relationships
Collocation
Can I give you some feedback?
To offer an opinion, assessment, or constructive criticism about someone's work, performance, or ideas.
Example: The manager will give you some feedback on your report after she reviews it.
Collocation
I appreciated how you handled that.
To express gratitude or positive feedback for someone's effective management of a specific situation or challenge.
Example: I appreciated how you handled that difficult client.
Collocation
One thing that would help is...
This phrase is used to introduce a suggestion, a solution, or an action that could improve a situation or solve a problem. It frames the suggestion as a single, significant factor.
Example: One thing that would help is to communicate more openly about the project challenges.
Collocation
Would you be open to trying this?
Are you willing to consider or experience this new thing or idea?
Example: Would you be open to trying this?
Collocation
That was my mistake.
Acknowledging personal responsibility for an error or a wrong action; admitting fault.
Example: That was my mistake; I should have checked the details more carefully.
Collocation
Thanks for flagging this.
Thank you for bringing this to my attention or highlighting this issue, problem, or piece of information.
Example: Thanks for flagging this issue; we'll investigate it immediately.
Collocation
I'll make sure this doesn't happen again.
A promise or commitment to prevent a past negative event or mistake from recurring.
Example: I'll make sure this doesn't happen again.
Collocation
Could we talk about this privately?
A polite request to discuss a matter confidentially, without other people present or listening.
Example: Could we talk about this privately?
Collocation
I need some help with this.
To require assistance or support with a task, problem, or situation.
Example: I really need some help understanding this complex topic.
Collocation
Happy to help.
A polite and common expression used to offer assistance, confirm willingness to assist, or respond positively to a request for help.
Example: If you have any questions, I'm happy to help.
Idiom
Step on someone's toes
To avoid offending or interfering with someone's responsibilities or authority.
Example: I didn't want to step on your toes, but I thought I should mention this potential problem with the report.
Collocation
Let's talk this through.
To discuss something completely and in detail, examining all aspects to understand it, resolve it, or make a decision.
Example: We need to talk this project through thoroughly before presenting it to the client.
Collocation
I hear what you're saying.
An idiom used to acknowledge someone's point or perspective, indicating understanding, often (but not always) implying that one does not fully agree or intend to act on it.
Example: I hear what you're saying about the budget, but we still need to invest in new equipment.
Collocation
Thanks for your patience.
An expression of gratitude to someone for waiting calmly, enduring a delay, or being understanding during a difficult or inconvenient situation.
Example: The customer service representative said, 'Thanks for your patience as we resolve this issue.'
Collocation
I'd like to raise a concern.
To bring a worry, problem, or objection to someone's attention, typically for discussion or resolution.
Example: The committee decided to raise a concern about the project's budget during the meeting.
Collocation
How can I support you?
A polite and direct offer to help someone, implying a willingness to provide assistance, understanding, or resources, often in a broad or ongoing way.
Example: After hearing about his difficult situation, she immediately asked, 'How can I support you?'
Collocation
Could you walk me through it?
To explain something to someone in a detailed, step-by-step manner.
Example: The new software is quite complex; could you walk me through it during our meeting?
Collocation
Let's agree to disagree.
To acknowledge that two people or groups have different opinions on a subject and decide to stop arguing about it, accepting that a consensus cannot be reached.
Example: After a long debate, they realized they had different fundamental beliefs and decided to agree to disagree.
Collocation
Sorry about that.
An informal expression used to apologize for a small mistake, inconvenience, or minor problem that has just occurred or been pointed out.
Example: Oh, I spilled a little coffee on your desk. Sorry about that.
Collocation
Constructive feedback
Advice or criticism that is useful and intended to help or improve something, rather than just being negative.
Example: The manager gave me some constructive feedback on my presentation, which really helped me improve it.
Section 6
International Workplace Differences
Collocation
Working from home
Performing one's job duties from one's residence rather than a traditional office; telecommuting.
Example: Many companies adopted a policy of working from home during the pandemic.
Collocation
Hybrid work
A flexible working model where employees split their time between working from home and working from a central office, combining elements of both.
Example: Many companies are now adopting a hybrid work model to offer employees more flexibility.
Collocation
Annual leave
Paid time off work that an employee is entitled to take each year.
Example: She decided to take her annual leave in August to visit her family.
Collocation
Vacation days
Days off from work or school, often paid, for rest, travel, or personal activities.
Example: I plan to take a few vacation days in July to visit my family.
Word
PTO
PTO stands for Paid Time Off, which is a benefit allowing employees to take a set amount of paid time away from work for various reasons.
Example: I'm saving up my PTO for a long trip to Europe next year.
Collocation
What timezone are you in?
A question used to ask about someone's current local time zone or geographical time reference.
Example: She asked, "What timezone are you in?" to coordinate the best time for their virtual meeting.
Collocation
Does 3pm your time work?
Is 3pm in your time zone suitable or convenient for you?
Example: Does 3 PM your time work for you?
Collocation
I'll follow up in writing.
To provide additional information, confirmation, or action regarding a previous discussion or event, specifically through written communication (e.g., email, letter, memo).
Example: After our meeting, I'll follow up in writing with the key points we discussed.
Collocation
Could you put that in an email?
To communicate or send specific information, details, or a request using an email.
Example: I'll put the meeting details in an email for you this afternoon.
Collocation
Best regards
A common and polite closing used in letters, emails, and other written communications, conveying good wishes.
Example: Please find the report attached. Best regards, John.
Word
Cheers
An informal expression used as a toast, a thank you, or a goodbye.
Example: Everyone, raise your glasses! Cheers to a fantastic year ahead!
Collocation
Let's pencil that in.
To make a tentative or provisional arrangement or appointment, often written down lightly with a pencil, implying it can be changed later.
Example: We can pencil in our meeting for next Tuesday, but I'll confirm the exact time later.
Collocation
Let's lock that in.
To confirm or finalize an agreement, plan, or decision.
Example: So, Friday at 2 PM works for everyone? Great, let's lock that in.
Collocation
Line manager
A person who is directly responsible for managing the work of a team or department and reports to a more senior manager.
Example: You should always report issues to your line manager first.
Collocation
Could I speak with you for a moment?
A polite way to ask someone if they have a short amount of time to talk or listen.
Example: Excuse me, Mr. Johnson, could I speak with you for a moment about the project?
Collocation
Have you got a second?
To ask if someone has a moment of free time available to talk or help.
Example: Excuse me, do you have a second to help me with this box?
Collocation
Please advise.
A polite and formal request for information, guidance, or instructions on a particular matter.
Example: We have encountered an unexpected technical issue; please advise on the best course of action.
Collocation
By close of business
By the end of the working day; by the time the office or place of business closes. Used to set a deadline.
Example: Please ensure all reports are submitted by close of business today.