An exercise focusing on vocabulary for professional negotiations. Understanding these expressions will help you follow, participate in, and lead business negotiations in English with confidence.
💬 Useful phrases “I think we can find a solution that works for both of us.” — an opening statement signaling collaborative intent “We'd be willing to consider that, provided that...” — introducing a conditional concession during negotiation “That's a reasonable position, but our concern is...” — acknowledging the other side while steering toward your priorities “Could we explore a middle ground on this point?” — suggesting a compromise without fully conceding “I'd like to propose an alternative arrangement.” — introducing a new option when the current one is not acceptable “What flexibility do you have on the timeline?” — probing for room to adjust a key term without direct confrontation “We're prepared to move forward if you can accommodate...” — signaling readiness to close contingent on a specific concession “Let's take a short break and reconvene.” — suggesting a pause to regroup when negotiations become tense
READY TO PRACTICE? LET’S GO!
Choose the correct response to complete each sentence.
1. The two sides have not come to an agreement. They are still __________________________.
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2. It is doubtful that the parties will come to an agreement. There is little hope of a __________________________.
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3. P1: So, neither party is willing to __________________________? P2: No. Neither one will make concessions.
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4. There is __________________________ in our position. = We have not changed our position.
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5. Negotiations are at an __________________________. = The parties are unable to come to an agreement.
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6. When negotiations __________________________, it means that they are continuing, but in an uncertain/difficult manner.
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7. When will this agreement __________________________? ( = start/become valid/begin to operate)
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8. We hope to __________________________ an agreement by Friday.
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9. The talks broke down. = The talks __________________________.
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10. Both sides are hoping for a successful __________________________. ( = result)
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