Business English Vocabulary and Phrasal Guide

Business English

A variant of English characterized by professional terminology, formal communication style, and specific linguistic patterns used in business circles to build effective communications and conclude deals.

Can / Could

Modal verbs used in business to express possibility or ability, such as scheduling meetings.

May / Might

Modal verbs used to request permission, express possibility, or make assumptions.

Must / Have to

Modal verbs used to express an obligation or necessity, such as completing a project by a specific deadline.

Should / Ought to

Modal verbs used to provide advice or recommendations, such as considering customer feedback.

Will / Would

Modal verbs used for promises, polite requests, and making proposals.

Agenda

A list of items to be discussed at a meeting, such as a budget review.

Benchmark

A standard or point of reference against which performance is measured, such as using last year’s performance as a standard.

Budget

The financial plan for a project that must stay within allocated limits.

Client

A customer or recipient of services where satisfaction is considered a top priority.

Deadline

The final date or time by which a task, such as a report submission, must be completed.