Build your contract English vocabulary with this exercise. Understanding these terms will help you read and discuss business agreements with confidence in English-speaking professional environments.
💬 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. I really believe that it is in our company's __________________________ (meaning: it would be beneficial for our company) to sign this contract.
Correct answer: best interest.
2. Negotiation frequently involves compromise. Too much __________________________, however, can be a bad thing.
Correct answer: flexibility.
3. Many negotiators __________________________ (meaning: develop) their own contracts before entering into negotiations.
Correct answer: write up.
4. We need to __________________________ (meaning: clearly define) this point - it's a little ambiguous.
Correct answer: clarify.
5. I'm not too __________________________ on what you mean by that. = I don't really understand what you mean by that.
Correct answer: clear.
6. You will see that this contract __________________________ all the terms that we agreed upon during negotiations.
Correct answer: includes.
7. He came into negotiations with a __________________________ list of items. (meaning: a list of items arranged by priority)
Correct answer: prioritized.
8. Our estimate was based on the request for ____________________ (RFP) that we received from them.
Correct answer: proposal.
9. A ____________________ is an essential point that must be agreed upon before a contract can be signed.
Correct answer: deal-breaker.
10. Would it be possible to __________________________ (meaning: get rid of/not include) these fees?