Enhance your English Communication Skills: 10 Essential American Business Phrasal Verbs for Advanced Learners

This article teaches you ten useful American business phrasal verbs that will not only help you navigate the intricacies of professional communication but also enhance your understanding of U.S. culture. Whether you're an entrepreneur, or an employee incorporating these phrases into your vocabulary will give you a competitive edge.

1. Break down (a problem):

Example: "To tackle this project, let's break down the problem into its key components and address them individually."

2. Bring about (change): In American business culture, leaders are expected to bring about meaningful change within their organizations. This phrasal verb signifies the ability to initiate and lead transformative processes that enhance productivity, innovation, and growth.

Example: "As a change agent, our CEO aims to bring about a cultural shift within the company to foster collaboration and creativity."

3. Carry out (a plan): To carry out a plan means to implement it effectively and efficiently, ensuring that goals are met and objectives are accomplished.

Example: "We need to carefully assign tasks to team members and ensure everyone understands their roles to successfully carry out our expansion plan."

4. Cut back (on expenses): To cut back on expenses means to reduce costs or spending.

Example: "To improve our profit margins, we need to identify areas where we can cut back on unnecessary expenses without compromising quality."

5. Figure out (a solution): When confronted with challenges, individuals are expected to figure out practical and innovative solutions to overcome obstacles and achieve objectives.

Example: "Our team has been brainstorming to figure out a solution that aligns with our budget constraints and customer needs."

 
 

6. Get ahead (in one's career): To get ahead means to progress in one's career.

Example: "By networking, attending industry events, and continually honing their skills, ambitious professionals can get ahead in their careers."

7 .Go over (a proposal): When discussing and reviewing a document or a proposal in an American business context, it is common to go over the details meticulously. This phrasal verb emphasizes the importance of thoroughly examining and analyzing information for clarity and accuracy.

Example: "Let's go over the sales proposal to ensure that it aligns with our client's needs and addresses all their concerns."

8. Hold off (on a decision): In business, timing can be crucial. Sometimes, it's necessary to hold off on making a decision, especially when additional information or clarity is needed before committing to a course of action.

Example: "Given the recent market volatility, it might be wise to hold off on investing until we have a clearer picture of the economic situation."

9. Look into (an issue): When encountering problems or discrepancies, American business professionals often look into the matter to gather more information and gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation.

Example: "We received a customer complaint about a defective product. Let's look into the matter to identify the root cause and prevent future occurrences."

10. Take on (a challenge): In the competitive American business landscape, individuals are encouraged to take on challenges and demonstrate their capabilities. This phrasal verb signifies the willingness to embrace new opportunities and responsibilities to showcase one's skills and potential.

Example: "Our company aims to take on the challenge of expanding into international markets, capitalizing on emerging opportunities worldwide."

Mastering these ten essential American business phrasal verbs will undoubtedly enhance your English communication skills and facilitate intercultural understanding in a professional setting. By incorporating these phrases into your vocabulary, you will demonstrate fluency.

Don’t hesitate to contact me at office@lingualinkdc.net if you want to take your English and cultural knowledge to the next level.

 
 
Marike Korn