Every year on February 14, love is in the air. It’s a time for romance, flowers, and pretty, witty words from William Shakespeare.
(Romeo and Juliet – Act 4, Scene 1)
(Romeo and Juliet – Act 2, Scene 2)
(Romeo and Juliet – Act 1, Scene 1)
(Romeo and Juliet — Act 2, Scene 2)
(Romeo and Juliet — Act 1, Scene 5)
Have you seen any of the film versions? Check out Twentieth Century Fox’s 1996 movie, directed by Baz Luhrmann and starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes as the star crossed lovers. Watch the trailer for Romeo and Juliet.
(Twelfth Night – Act 1, Scene 1)
Here, Shakespeare uses a metaphor to suggest that music might cure the character’s obsession with love. I wonder how that worked out for him…? 😉
(A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Act 1, Scene 1)
(A Midsummer Night’s Dream – Act 1, Scene 1)
(A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Scene 4, Act 1)
(King Lear – Act 1, Scene 1)
(The Tempest – Act 3, Scene 1)
(Much Ado About Nothing, Act IV, Scene 1)
(Much Ado About Nothing, Act V, Scene 2)
(Sonnet 18, Lines 1–2)
I chose to place this sonnet at the end of the post, as it speaks of a more mature love which remains strong and true despite storms (tempests) and time (the sickle reference). And though it opens with a reference to “marriage,” the word in line one is used to mean the uniting of two, true minds rather than a legally sanctioned partnership.
(Sonnet 116)
Brenda de Jong-Pauley, February, 2022 ?
PS. Would you like more Shakespeare? Yes? Read our popular post, “Shakespeare: Ten Favorite Quotes and a Beautiful Apology.”
And…
Are you looking for an intensive English course?
Would you like to improve your own English fluency quickly? Read more about our private, customised intensive speed course.
Do you work in HR? Are you looking for a way to improve the English fluency of your team?
Are you looking for a great trainer? Would you like to meet an English Center teacher in a free online appointment?
Would you like to speak with a British Accent? Are you interested in pronunciation training?
Call +31 20 823 0569. We are happy to speak with you in English or Dutch!
Would you love to speak English fluently, like a native? Do you want to feel confident and relaxed when speaking? Do you want to sound as smart in English as you do in Dutch, or French or Spanish? Do you want to communicate fluently at work and in social situations? Then this post is for you. Read the whole list and then find the tips that suit you best and begin your journey to English fluency. Let’s start with some definitions, just to be sure that we are all “on the same page.” (= thinking about the same thing.)
Do you work in HR? Are you looking for a way to improve the English fluency of your team?
Are you looking for an intensive English or business English course?
According to the Cambridge Dictionary, fluency is the ability to speak or write a language easily, well, and quickly. We could say that fluency means flow. But in common usage, fluency means speaking at an advanced or near native level (C2 on the CEFR scale). And that is the way we will think about it in this article.
First, and most importantly – don’t worry about doing everything on this list. And don’t worry about being perfect. Even natives make mistakes! Just pick the English fluency tips that suit you best and get started. Stay relaxed, but disciplined. Let’s get fluent!
• Build vocabulary with more words. Knowing and being able to produce words is essential.
• Build vocabulary with more idioms. Understanding idioms is required for intermediate to advanced level listening. Even if you do not use idioms (productive speech), you must understand them (receptive speech).
• Learn intonation. It carries lots of meaning.
• Learn linking, omissions and phrasing so you can decode and produce English.
• Fix pronunciation errors that interfere with understandability, especially sound substitutions.
• Accept the fact that English spelling is very often disconnected from English pronunciation. Trust your teacher to train your sound.
• Get a good schwa sound as in the words bus, cup and love. The schwa is the most common sound in English! And while you are thinking about sounds, add a good TH so you can properly say common words like think, thought and through.
• Reduce hesitations and filler words.
• Read aloud and, just like an actor, rehearse the same text again and again till you can speak it fluently and accurately.
• Pace yourself. Be aware of how stress – and lack of stress – impacts speech speed.
• Listen to yourself / record yourself.
• Be polite and learn the “social graces” of English.
• Learn to use modal verbs and other softening phrases so that you are clear but polite.
• Be aware of cultural differences as it relates to social and business communication.
• Be a great listener and show that you are listening with eye contact, facial expressions, appropriate body language, and accurate verbal responses. You will “win friends and influence people” (Dale Carnegie) when you show others the respect of listening to them.
• Do not use listening time to plan your remarks. You cannot respond well if you did not listen well, and people will notice, and they will not like it! Of course, listening well does not mean agreeing. In fact, if you plan to disagree, you need to have the other person’s comments in mind.
Are you looking for a great trainer? Would you like to meet an English Center teacher in a free online appointment?
• Language fashions change! Accept the fact that language changes, and rules, styles and preferences you learned at school or uni may no longer be valid.
• Be a lifelong learner. Accept and embrace the lifelong language journey.
• Ask for help.
• Remind yourself that no one is perfect. Be kind to yourself.
• Stay calm and mindful. Research shows that anxiety blocks vocabulary recall! :o(
• Fake it till you make it! Keep talking despite mistakes. That’s OK. You’re learning!
• Celebrate your accomplishments. Respect and embrace your progress. Be as kind to yourself as you would be to a friend.
• Think in English. Train your brain and build your English infrastructure. Teach your “inner voice” to speak English and the “outer voice” will follow.
• Hangout with the right people. That means fluent people. People who speak English badly will not help you!
• If possible, minimize contact with people who speak English badly. Maximize contact with native speakers and advanced ESL speakers.
• Learn how to give and take a compliment.
• Entertain yourself with movies, series and podcasts. English subtitles are best. Videoland, Ziggo Film 1, Amazon Prime, Pathe Thuis and YouTube deliver a plethora of films and series. Check out Spotify, Stitcher, SoundCloud, Pocket Casts and Apple for podcasts. With podcasts – and documentary films – you can learn about something that is important to you while improving your English. What could be better than that?
• Record yourself. Dictate. Read aloud and listen to yourself. Use your smartphone’s free native app or Otter.ai. Otter has a free membership.
Check out our WATCH LEARN SPEAK video app.
• Learn by doing. You wouldn’t learn to dance by reading about it, would you? Language is no different. As Nike says, “Just do it!”
• Build your muscles: Speak, speak, speak!
• Write in English. Write anything from a business report to a cooking recipe. Writing forces you to externalize and produce language and helps you see your errors.
• Find your audience. Be sure to practice as much as possible with native speakers who you feel safe and comfortable with. Then build up to “tougher crowds.” Avoid practicing with people who over-correct you. This will frustrate and discourage you, shattering your confidence and taking the joy out of speaking English. Protect yourself!
• Learn how to “sell” in English, even if you are not in sales. English speakers like to be persuaded. If you are not enthusiastic, why should we be?
• Read books, articles, blogs, magazines and newspapers aloud.
• Read poetry aloud.
• Do not “go it alone” – find a great English trainer and keep working with them. Their feedback, guidance, support and influence is critical for your success. Most people who do it alone will fail. We all need support and guidance to achieve important life goals.
• Do not ask your partner, colleague or best friend to teach you! Some native speakers are terrible teachers! And learning from your spouse (= husband or wife) can be very stressful. So please do not ask your best friend or partner to teach you. Leave that to the professionals. Practice with supportive friends and colleagues, but learn from a professional.
Are you looking for a great trainer? Would you like to meet an English Center teacher in a free online appointment?
Brenda de Jong Pauley, Kerry Finlayson, and The English Center Team
January, 2022
Are you looking for an intensive English or business English course?
Would you like to improve your own English fluency quickly? Read more about our private, customised intensive speed course.
Do you work in HR? Are you looking for a way to improve the English fluency of your corporate team?
Are you looking for a great trainer? Would you like to meet an English Center teacher in a free online appointment?
Call +31 20 823 0569. We are happy to speak with you in English or Dutch!
December, 2021
Christmas movies are the perfect way to enjoy some quiet time at home. Choose a holiday film, grab the remote, and don’t forget the popcorn! Please note that this post was written during a Covid lockdown
A famous Christmas song says, “There’s No Place Like Home for the Holidays;” and while that may be true, with a new Covid lockdown in the Netherlands announced a few days ago, many of us are feeling a bit bored and “cooped up.” (=feeling confined in a small space)
Still, we will all make the best of it, right? We have to keep safe and count our blessings, and one of the blessings of this season is an ample (=more than sufficient) supply of great holiday movies. As a bonus, movies are a great way to work on your English, eh?
Our holiday film list includes 4 of our favorite English language holiday films. I hope Santa brought you Netflix, Videoland, Pathe Thuis, Ziggo Film1 or Prime so that you can watch these feel good films. And many of these films are available for rent on YouTube, too.
So pop some popcorn, grab a blanket and settle in for some holiday cheer.
We have selected a wildly mixed group so we hope there is something here for everyone. And if you don’t find what you’re looking for here, check out this Rotten Tomatoes list of 65 Top Rated Christmas Movies.
The Rotten Tomatoes algorithm ranks this old movie as the number one holiday movie of all time, and their critics say that It’s a Wonderful Life is one of a handful of films worth an annual viewing (=you should watch it every year.)
After George Bailey (James Stewart) wishes he had never been born, an angel pretends to drown, knowing that George will save him. The angel then proceeds to show George how much good he has done in his life. (This is a reference to Dicken’s “A Christmas Carol.”)
This movie is a slice of small town life in an America that is long past. But the lessons are eternal and the story has a happy ending.
YouTube Trailer: It’s a Wonderful Life
While there are older and newer adaptations – Scrooge (1935), Scrooged (1988), and The Man Who Invented Christmas (2017) – this 1950s version is my favorite. It is properly spooky and dramatic but also wonderfully vintage, with a very authentic look and feel.
A Christmas Carol, a story written by Charles Dickens in 1843, is about a mean-spirited and selfish old man, Ebenezer Scrooge, who hates Christmas. One cold Christmas Eve, Scrooge is unkind to the people who work for him. Then he refuses to give even a penny to charity, and finally, he’s rude to his nephew who invites him to his house for Christmas.
When Scrooge gets home, he is very alone. He tries to sleep, but is visited by the ghost of his old business partner Jacob Marley – and then by three more ghosts! They are the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Christmas Present and Christmas Future.
The ghosts’ show Scrooge his life – past, present and future – thus teaching him the error of his ways. When he wakes up on Christmas Day, he is full of excitement and buys the biggest turkey in the shop for the Cratchit family before spending the day with his nephew, full of love, charity and the joys of Christmas. A very happy ending!
YouTube Trailer: A Christmas Carol
“Once a year, the chronically depressed, misanthropic, alcoholic wreck-of-a-man safe-breaker, Willie T. Soke, wakes up from his annual slumber to team up with his partner-in-crime, the ill-tempered dwarf, Marcus. Theirs is a simple but ingenious plan: Willie, as a department store Santa, and Marcus, as his trusted elf-helper, use this cover to crack safes for nearly eight years now, in the most wonderful time of the year. However, this time, the scheme is on the verge of falling apart, as Willie’s professional incompetence along with a hawk-eyed mall security chief in Phoenix, threaten to blow their cover–and to top it all off, Willie finds the time to befriend a lonely picked-on kid, Thurman. Is now the moment for some unorthodox Christmas spirit?”
Plot summary by Nick Riganas, reproduced from IMDB
FYI, the IMDb (an abbreviation of Internet Movie Database) is a good online resource – a database of information related to films, television series, home videos, video games, and streaming content online. It began as a fan-operated movie database but is now a subsidiary of Amazon.
A very clever 8-year old boy has to protect his house from two burglars when he’s accidentally left behind during Christmas vacation.
“It is Christmas time and the McCallister family is preparing for a vacation in Paris, France. But the youngest in the family, Kevin (Macaulay Culkin), got into a scuffle with his older brother Buzz (Devin Ratray) and was sent to his room, which is on the third floor of his house. Then, the next morning, while the rest of the family was in a rush to make it to the airport on time, they completely forgot about Kevin, who now has the house all to himself. Being home alone was fun for Kevin, having a pizza all to himself, jumping on his parents’ bed, and making a mess. Then, Kevin discovers two burglars, Harry (Joe Pesci) and Marv (Daniel Stern), about to rob his house on Christmas Eve. Kevin acts quickly by wiring his own house with makeshift booby traps to stop the burglars and to bring them to justice.”
Plot summary by John Wiggins, Reproduced from IMDb
———————————–
Didn’t see the right film for you? No worries! Go to Rotten Tomatoes right now and cruise through their extensive list of 65 holiday Christmas movies – real cinematic gems. I am sure you will find the right movie for you. Enjoy!
Merry Christmas, happy holidays, soulful solstice and a happy, healthy new year from the English Center Team– Brenda, Kerry, Marike, Michael, Ian, Noelle, Tina, Carolyn and all the English Center Teachers
PS Are you looking for some Netflix series?
Would you like to read a famous Christmas poem?
Read more about our Live Online Business English cafe.
With a private business English course, you can focus on the words and phrases that are most important for you and your job.
Would you like to take a free English level test? You can do it online now.
Call +31 20 823 0569. We are happy to speak with you in English or Dutch!
Brenda de Jong-Pauley, December, 20
24 more business English idioms to help you “get ahead” in business English communications. This third-in-our-series list will enrich and expand your language with common, colorful expressions that native speakers use everyday.
This alphabetical business English idioms list is Chapter 3 in our idiom series. It follows the previous idiom post, “39 Business English Idioms Explained, Chapter 2.” If you have not already seen Chapters 1 and 2, and if you want to start at the beginning, go to “Learn 20 Business English Idioms, Chapter 1.”
Since we have already reviewed the question of “what are business English idioms” in chapters one and two, let’s jump right in with the chapter 3 list!
1. Quick buck
Quick or easy earnings; same as “fast buck.” Can suggest unethical behavior.
Example: Those stock traders are ruthless. They’re just out to make a quick buck.
2. Reality check
To think realistically about the situation
Example: Let’s have a reality check and see if the company needs to cut back on employee hours. With our decreased profits, the ROI is just not there.
3. Redtape
Obstructive official routine or procedure; time-consuming bureaucracy
Example: In order to get the project greenlighted, there was loads of red tape to get through. All of those phone calls and meetings were exhausting!
4. Rule of thumb
A useful principle having wide application but not intended to be strictly accurate or reliable in every situation
Example: The rule of thumb at my office is to wear casual clothes on Fridays.
5. Scale back
Reduce the number of hours or the size of the project, etc
Example: We are scaling back operations until production picks up again.
6. Scratch someone’s back
To do something for someone with the intent that he/she does something for you
Example: Listen, I will scratch your back if you scratch mine. I’ll put a good word in for you this time, and when it’s my turn to lead the project, you do the same. Okay?
Note: this can sound shady (=disreputable).
7. Selling like hotcakes
To sell quickly and in large numbers
Example: The new laptops were selling like hotcakes!
8. Short on cash
Having little or a limited amount of money
Example: Sorry, but there’s no way we can give raises this year; the company is short on cash.
9. Sparks fly / make sparks fly
Interaction that becomes heated, angry or confrontational
Example: You should have seen the sparks fly at the meeting with the heads of the department! Some of the managers were really furious.
10. Spend a fortune
To spend a large amount of money
Example: It seems like they spent a fortune on the company party. There was an open bar, live entertainment, and great food.
11. Test the waters
To try it; to experiment
Example: I wanted to test the waters before I started working on this project, so I mentioned my concept at the board meeting. Then I just watched to see how they reacted.
12. Thick-skinned
Insensitive to criticism
Example: My colleague is so thick-skinned that he never gets upset, no matter how harshly he is criticized.
13. Throw in the towel
To quit; to give up
Example: I decided to throw in the towel on my old job. It was so bad that I just had to quit.
14. To beat someone to the punch
To do something before somebody else has a chance
Examples: I really wanted to explain that point in the meeting, but my colleague opened his big mouth and beat me to the punch.
15. To be hit hard by something
To suffer financial losses; to have your market sharply contract
Example: The travel and hospitality sectors have been hit very hard by the Covid pandemic.
16. To blow up
To become very angry
Example: I am afraid that my boss is going to blow up when I tell her I did not close the deal.
Also when your mobile or social media account is getting lots of messages, posts, calls and notifications
Example: OMG, after my last post, my Twitter account totally blew up!
17. To blow it
To mess something up; to spoil your chances of achieving success because of what you say or do, or don’t do
Example: I think I priced that job way too high. I think I blew the sale.
18. To come up with
To think of a new idea or approach
Example: I don’t know who came up with the idea of a company breakfast once a month, but it sure sounds like fun!
19. To drop the ball
To make a mistake; to fail to perform one’s responsibilities
Example: My boss totally dropped the ball, and now we will never get that big contract we were all working on.
20. To flog something
To aggressively promote or sell something
Example: Multilevel companies are terrible; you have to flog products to your friends and family.
21. To get ahead
To advance in one’s career
Example: To get ahead at my company, you have to work hard, produce sales and keep really long hours.
22. To get laid off / to be made redundant
To lose one’s job, but not through firing
Example: I am afraid I will be laid off because of the corporate reorganization.
23. To get wind of
To find out about something that is not well known
Example: I got wind of the reorganization and decided to quit before I got laid off.
24. To have seen better days
To be in a period of decline
Example: Our office building has seen better days. It is old and rundown.
OK… that’s it for this Chapter 3 idiom list. We hope you enjoy using these business English idioms. And if you would like to further develop your business English, we have some suggestions for you. Please keep reading and take the free test.
Go to Chapter 1 of our Business English Idiom series.
Go to Chapter 2 of our Business English Idiom series.
Go to Chapter 4 in our Business English Idiom Series.
Take our free business English idiom test online now and discover how well you understand the expressions (=uitdrukkingen) used in everyday professional English.
If English is the corporate language where you work, there may be some employees who need to speak and write at a more professional level. Visit our in-company training page to learn more about our approach and services.
Vocabulary – words, phrases, idioms, collocations, phrasal verbs – no matter how you describe it, you need these language building blocks. And whatever your level, beginner to advanced, you need to keep adding and refreshing your vocabulary. Maybe you have forgotten some old words, or maybe you need to add new words that relate to your job….? You can build your vocabulary with a private customized course that focuses on the language that is the most important for you! Would you like to speak with a native speaker teacher in a free consultation appointment?
Read more about our Live Online Business English cafe.
With a private business English course, you can focus on the words and phrases that are most important for you and your job.
Would you like to take a free English level test? You can do it online now.
In 2020 and 2021, we are seeing most of our clients online via Zoom, Google Meet, etc.
Call +31 20 823 0569. We are happy to speak with you in English or Dutch!
Contributors: Brenda de Jong-Pauley, Kerry Finlayson and Marike Duizendstra-Wolters
August 2021, Updated April 2022.
Bent u op zoek naar een cursus zakelijk Engels of een cursus academisch schrijven?
Wilt u een gratis English Center niveau test doen die veel Engelse grammatica vragen bevat?
Wilt u een gratis kennismakingsafspraak met een native-speaker Engelse docent maken?
Het gebruik van het veelgebruikte simpel lijkende werkwoord “send” kan eigenlijk best lastig zijn, zowel omdat het een onregelmatig werkwoord is als vanwege de D en T uitgangen. In het Engels wordt de laatste D vaak uitgesproken met een T-klank, zoals in de woorden watched, cooked, liked. De uitspraak van deze woorden maakt ze dus moeilijker te spellen. Bovendien zorgt deze klankverschuiving voor verwarring over de tijd en wanneer je welke vorm moet gebruiken.
Het hele werkwoord is send, de verleden en de voltooide vorm zijn sent. Zorg ervoor dat u deze woorden correct uitspreekt.
Oefen het uitspreken van send, sent, sent en overdrijf de D en T klanken. De T is plosief en maakt een plop van lucht. De D plopt niet. Het is een zwaardere, donkerdere klank. Als het verschil u niet duidelijk is, probeer dan deze woorden te oefenen:
send: dad, did, dude
sent: tote, tart, toot
1. Present simple (wordt gebruikt voor gewoonten, feiten, gebruiken en herhaald gedrag
I send many emails every day
2. Present continuous (wordt gebruikt voor wat er NU gebeurt. Acties die tijdelijk zijn)
I am sending you an email right now, while we are on the phone.
3. Present simple voor de toekomst met ‘will’ en ‘going to’
I will (I’ll) send the email in a second / in one minute / this afternoon / tomorrow.
I will (I’ll) send the package next week.
I am going to send (I’m going to send) the package on Tuesday.
4. Past (voltooide actie in het verleden)
I just sent the email.
I sent you an email this morning / 5 minutes ago / yesterday / last week.
5. Past continuous (een doorlopende/voortschrijdende actie, voltooid in het verleden)
I was sending an important email when the Internet went down.
6. Present perfect (een actie in een tijdsperiode die aansluit op het nu, zoals vandaag, deze week, deze maand)
I have sent hundreds of emails this week.
7. Present perfect continuous (een doorlopende/voortschrijdende actie in een tijdsperiode die aansluit op het nu, zoals recentelijk, de laatste tijd, de laatste paar dagen)
Recently, I have been sending so many emails that I can write them really quickly.
8. Past perfect (een handeling in het verleden vóór een andere handeling in het verleden: de relatie van die twee handelingen)
I had just sent her a long email when she rang me.
9. Past perfect continuous (doorlopende/voortschrijdende actie in het verleden voordat iets anders in het verleden gebeurde: de relatie van die twee acties)
I had been sending so many emails that I decided to create a template to make it go faster.
OK! Maar om het simpele woordje SEND echt onder de knie te krijgen, moeten we dieper in de Engelse grammatica duiken. Laten we beginnen met de present simple.
Gebruik de present simple om te praten over tijdsschema’s, gewoontes, gebruiken, herhaald gedrag en wetenschappelijke feiten. We gebruiken deze vorm om te praten over dingen die stabiel zijn en NIET tijdelijk. Dingen die in het verleden waar waren, nu waar zijn, en waarschijnlijk in de toekomst waar zullen zijn. We gebruiken vaak altijd of nooit bij present simple zinnen.
The train leaves at 6:00. The team meets at 9:00 on Mondays. The presentation begins at 11:00. The train departs at 4:05. What time does the meeting begin? We leave for the US tomorrow.
I send my boss a report every day. I never eat lunch at my desk.
He never sends attachments with his emails.
We celebrate New Year’s Eve with fireworks. How do you celebrate New Year’s? I send holiday greeting cards (Christmas cards) every December.
Water boils at 100 degrees. The earth orbits around the sun.
– zoals houden van, liefhebben, ruiken, willen, nodig hebben, verkiezen, weten, veronderstellen, bedoelen, begrijpen, onthouden, erbij horen, passen, bevatten, bestaan, lijken, beseffen.
Let op: in gesproken Engels overtreden mensen soms de regesl over de status werkwoorden, maar in geschreven zakelijke communicatie mag dat niet. Zo kunt u in een informeel gesprek tijdens een etentje zeggen: “I am loving this fish! It’s delicious.” Dit is technisch onjuist, maar het komt steeds vaker voor in informeel gesproken Engels en in marketing. Herinnert u zich de McDonalds-campagne “I’m lovin’ it!” nog?
Maar schrijf niet in een zakelijke e-mail: “We are liking your proposal.” ☹ Schrijf in plaats daarvan: “We like your proposal.”
I like our new office.
I prefer Apples to PCs.
I remember you from the last conference.
This report looks messy.
I recommend the café on the corner.
I realize now that I will never like my boss.
I’m really loving our new office.
Oh yeah, I’m remembering that grammar rule now.
This report is looking pretty messy to me.
I’m recommending the café on the corner a lot these days. It is so good!
I’m realizing now that I will never like my boss. ?
Gebruik de present simple vorm van het werkwoord met “to.”
I want to send the report before noon.
I need to send it right now.
I like to send emails with lots of emojis.
I have to send this to my colleague for review.
We must send the complete report today if we want to keep the client happy.
They can send everything to my address and I will share it.
They could complete and send the review this week if they had more help.
We should send all the info before 17:00.
If I were you, I would send that to the entire team.
Would you send me a link to that article?
Do you send a report every week?
Does she send good meeting notes every week?
Did you send the notes last week?
Zorg ervoor dat je een S toevoegt als je de present simple gebruikt in declaratieve zinnen met derde persoon zelfstandige naamwoorden en voornaamwoorden.
Stephanie always sends emails with perfect grammar.
He sends greeting cards to top clients on their birthdays.
Tom sends out lots of email with mistakes.
Wilt u een gratis Engelse niveautest doen? Deze test bevat veel grammatica vragen. U kunt de test nu online doen.
Wilt u een gratis zakelijk Engels test doen? Deze test richt zich op Engelse idiomen die in zakelijke gesprekken worden gebruikt.
Vraag uw gratis online kennismaking aan.
Bent U geïnteresseerd in een groepscursus zakelijk Engels? Cursussen zijn beschikbaar op 2 niveaus: intermediate en advanced.
Met een privécursus zakelijk Engels kunt u zich richten op de woorden en zinnen die voor u en uw werk het belangrijkst zijn.
Bel +31 20 823 0569. Wij spreken graag met u in het Engels of Nederlands!
Dit artikel is geschreven en bewerkt door English Center Teachers: Brenda de Jong-Pauley en Kerry Finlayson.
The Raven, by Edgar Allan Poe, is one of American literature’s best known poems. Poe (1809–1849) is a revered author and is best known for his works related to mystery, horror, and suspense.
Perhaps his most famous work, The Raven – an 18 stanza poem – is a dark tale about a man tormented by a raven (= a black bird) who speaks to him, but has just one word – “nevermore.” Between the frightening bird and the death of his beautiful young wife, Lenore, the man slowly descends into madness. He feels that he will never be free from the grief of his lost love. The poem The Raven is one of the most easily recognisable pieces of literature, and is the perfect reading to get you in a creepy Halloween mood.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”9704″ img_size=”large”][vc_column_text]
Stanza 1
Once upon a midnight dreary, while I pondered, weak and weary,
Over many a quaint and curious volume of forgotten lore—
While I nodded, nearly napping, suddenly there came a tapping,
As of some one gently rapping, rapping at my chamber door.
“’Tis some visitor,” I muttered, “tapping at my chamber door—
Only this and nothing more.”
Stanza 2
Ah, distinctly I remember it was in the bleak December;
And each separate dying ember wrought its ghost upon the floor.
Eagerly I wished the morrow;—vainly I had sought to borrow
From my books surcease of sorrow—sorrow for the lost Lenore—
For the rare and radiant maiden whom the angels name Lenore—
Nameless here for evermore.
Stanza 3
And the silken, sad, uncertain rustling of each purple curtain
Thrilled me—filled me with fantastic terrors never felt before;
So that now, to still the beating of my heart, I stood repeating
“’Tis some visitor entreating entrance at my chamber door—
Some late visitor entreating entrance at my chamber door;—
This it is and nothing more.”
Stanza 4
Presently my soul grew stronger; hesitating then no longer,
“Sir,” said I, “or Madam, truly your forgiveness I implore;
But the fact is I was napping, and so gently you came rapping,
And so faintly you came tapping, tapping at my chamber door,
That I scarce was sure I heard you”—here I opened wide the door;—
Darkness there and nothing more.
Stanza 5
Deep into that darkness peering, long I stood there wondering, fearing,
Doubting, dreaming dreams no mortal ever dared to dream before;
But the silence was unbroken, and the stillness gave no token,
And the only word there spoken was the whispered word, “Lenore?”
This I whispered, and an echo murmured back the word, “Lenore!”—
Merely this and nothing more.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”9697″ img_size=”large”][vc_column_text]Stanza 6
Back into the chamber turning, all my soul within me burning,
Soon again I heard a tapping somewhat louder than before.
“Surely,” said I, “surely that is something at my window lattice;
Let me see, then, what thereat is, and this mystery explore—
Let my heart be still a moment and this mystery explore;—
’Tis the wind and nothing more!”
Stanza 7
Open here I flung the shutter, when, with many a flirt and flutter,
In there stepped a stately Raven of the saintly days of yore;
Not the least obeisance made he; not a minute stopped or stayed he;
But, with mien of lord or lady, perched above my chamber door—
Perched upon a bust of Pallas just above my chamber door—
Perched, and sat, and nothing more.
Stanza 8
Then this ebony bird beguiling my sad fancy into smiling,
By the grave and stern decorum of the countenance it wore,
“Though thy crest be shorn and shaven, thou,” I said, “art sure no craven,
Ghastly grim and ancient Raven wandering from the Nightly shore—
Tell me what thy lordly name is on the Night’s Plutonian shore!”
Quoth the Raven “Nevermore.”
Stanza 9
Much I marvelled this ungainly fowl to hear discourse so plainly,
Though its answer little meaning—little relevancy bore;
For we cannot help agreeing that no living human being
Ever yet was blessed with seeing bird above his chamber door—
Bird or beast upon the sculptured bust above his chamber door,
With such name as “Nevermore.”
Stanza 10
But the Raven, sitting lonely on the placid bust, spoke only
That one word, as if his soul in that one word he did outpour.
Nothing farther then he uttered—not a feather then he fluttered—
Till I scarcely more than muttered “Other friends have flown before—
On the morrow he will leave me, as my Hopes have flown before.”
Then the bird said “Nevermore.”
Stanza 11
Startled at the stillness broken by reply so aptly spoken,
“Doubtless,” said I, “what it utters is its only stock and store
Caught from some unhappy master whom unmerciful Disaster
Followed fast and followed faster till his songs one burden bore—
Till the dirges of his Hope that melancholy burden bore
Of ‘Never—nevermore’.”
Stanza 12
But the Raven still beguiling all my fancy into smiling,
Straight I wheeled a cushioned seat in front of bird, and bust and door;
Then, upon the velvet sinking, I betook myself to linking
Fancy unto fancy, thinking what this ominous bird of yore—
What this grim, ungainly, ghastly, gaunt, and ominous bird of yore
Meant in croaking “Nevermore.”
Stanza 13
This I sat engaged in guessing, but no syllable expressing
To the fowl whose fiery eyes now burned into my bosom’s core;
This and more I sat divining, with my head at ease reclining
On the cushion’s velvet lining that the lamp-light gloated o’er,
But whose velvet-violet lining with the lamp-light gloating o’er,
She shall press, ah, nevermore!
Stanza 14
Then, methought, the air grew denser, perfumed from an unseen censer
Swung by Seraphim whose foot-falls tinkled on the tufted floor.
“Wretch,” I cried, “thy God hath lent thee—by these angels he hath sent thee
Respite—respite and nepenthe from thy memories of Lenore;
Quaff, oh quaff this kind nepenthe and forget this lost Lenore!”
Quoth the Raven “Nevermore.”
Stanza 15
“Prophet!” said I, “thing of evil!—prophet still, if bird or devil!—
Whether Tempter sent, or whether tempest tossed thee here ashore,
Desolate yet all undaunted, on this desert land enchanted—
On this home by Horror haunted—tell me truly, I implore—
Is there—is there balm in Gilead?—tell me—tell me, I implore!”
Quoth the Raven “Nevermore.”
Stanza 16
“Prophet!” said I, “thing of evil!—prophet still, if bird or devil!
By that Heaven that bends above us—by that God we both adore—
Tell this soul with sorrow laden if, within the distant Aidenn,
It shall clasp a sainted maiden whom the angels name Lenore—
Clasp a rare and radiant maiden whom the angels name Lenore.”
Quoth the Raven “Nevermore.”
Stanza 17
“Be that word our sign of parting, bird or fiend!” I shrieked, upstarting—
“Get thee back into the tempest and the Night’s Plutonian shore!
Leave no black plume as a token of that lie thy soul hath spoken!
Leave my loneliness unbroken!—quit the bust above my door!
Take thy beak from out my heart, and take thy form from off my door!”
Quoth the Raven “Nevermore.”
Stanza 18
And the Raven, never flitting, still is sitting, still is sitting
On the pallid bust of Pallas just above my chamber door;
And his eyes have all the seeming of a demon’s that is dreaming,
And the lamp-light o’er him streaming throws his shadow on the floor;
And my soul from out that shadow that lies floating on the floor
Shall be lifted—nevermore!
The end: The Raven by Edgar Allan Poe
1. Dreary
To be very dull, and boring, and often repetitive, in a depressing way.
Example: The weather was so cold and dreary this morning, I really didn’t want to get out of bed.
2. Weary
A feeling of extreme tiredness, usually after some kind of exhausting task.
Example: He looked at the hundreds of unread emails in his inbox, and let out a long, weary sigh.
3. Lore
A collection of knowledge or tradition, typically very old, and passed down through generations.
Example: Did you know that Halloween lore began in Ireland, with the pagan festival of Samhain?
4. Rapping (to rap)
No hip-hop to be found here, this is another verb to describe the action of knocking, usually with short and sharp sounds.
Example: The trick-or-treaters were eager for their treats on Halloween, and rapped eagerly on their neighbour’s door.
5. Bleak
Similar to “dreary” above, this adjective describes something depressing; with no hope, warmth, or joy.
Example: If we don’t tackle the issue of climate change soon, the future for the planet looks bleak.
6. Ember
After the flames are finished; the final glowing remains of a fire.
Example: As the embers of the bonfire died, the excitement of Halloween was over for another year.
7. Sorrow
A deep sadness or regret.
Example: Edgar Allan Poe’s life was filled with pain and sorrow after the death of his wife.
8. Terrors
Something frightening or terrifying
Example: As an ex-soldier, he was forever haunted by the terrors of war.
9. Raven
A large, black bird with shiny feathers. Different from the more common crow in that ravens are much larger.
Example: The raven is a symbol of great wisdom, but also of death and bad luck.
10. Obeisance
Moving the body to show respect or authority. Tip: Think of the word “obey.”
Example: The priest made his obeisances in front of the altar, before walking up the stairs and beginning to read.
11. Ghastly
Something truly terrifying and horrifying.
Example: A ghastly scream came from deep within the dark woods.
12. Grim
Gloomy and depressing.
Example: The grim tale of a murderer haunted by the heartbeat of the man he killed is another famous story by Edgar Allan Poe called The Tell-tale Heart.
13. Ungainly
Awkward and without grace.
Example: He grew several inches over a short period of time, and so his movements were ungainly for a while.
14. Melancholy
A sad mood or feeling.
Example: The long, grey winters give many people a feeling of melancholy.
15. Desolate
A place without inhabitants; a lonely, abandoned place.
Example: She shivered in fear every time she walked by that old, desolate house in the neighborhood.
16. Fiend
A sadistic demon, devil or murderous person.
Example: I have no idea who this murderous fiend may be.
17. Nepenthe
A potion used in ancient times used to make someone forget pain or sorrow.
Example: She felt so much pain and sorrow, that the old witch made her a nepenthe, to help her forget and sleep peacefully.
18. Plume
A feather.
Example: He placed a plume in his hat to make him appear more sophisticated.
19. Fiery
Full of intense, hot emotions.
Example: His fiery temper caused him to act very violently.
20. Radiant
Literally shining or exuding light. Radiant can also mean looking very happy.
Example: He fell in love instantly with her radiant smile.
21. Nevermore
At no future time, never again.
Example: We will nevermore be in this place.
Author: Clare Kelleher
Editors: Brenda de Jong & Kerry Finlayson
Halloween! 30 Words, History and Films
[/vc_column_text][cq_vc_videocover videoimage=”9685″ imageshape=”square” overlaytype=”icon” iconshape=”circle” videolink=”https://youtu.be/vbTt1URhwR4″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row]
The world of business English is powered by words. Reports, meetings, and emails can sometimes seem like a puzzle to solve with all the complicated and specific business jargon that they use. So how can you improve your own business English vocabulary without memorizing the definitions of hundreds of words? Research into vocabulary development (second language acquisition or SLA) is changing how we approach word knowledge, and here are some of the research findings that can be easily adopted by any professional who wants to build their business English vocabulary.
When it comes to studying vocabulary, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. You can even be discouraged by how many words you don’t know rather than figuring out how to build on what you do know. Also, with our hectic schedules, we often don’t have a lot of time to be able to dedicate to developing our English language word skills.
To get the most out of your Business English study – whether it’s an English group course, a private coaching, in-company training or self-study – think about what you need to work on and what is important for your job. If you work in the IT department, you don’t need to spend hours memorising financial terminology if accounting is not a key part of your job. If you are a project manager, do you really need key phrases for sales presentations or customer service? Paying attention to your unique needs in your Business English journey can give you a solid foundation for building your mental word library, as well as make sure what you are learning will be useful to you in your current workplace and long term, in your career.
Some learners of business English vocabulary like to rely on long lists of words and phrases with definitions in their own language, or an explanation in English. If that works for you, great! But this takes the words out of their context – and this can often change the meaning of the word and how it is used. One of the difficult parts of studying English is that words often have multiple meanings and uses, which changes depending on its context.
Take the word “market”. In some contexts, it can mean a lovely local shop where you pick up your groceries for the week. But in the context of a sales meeting, “market” can take on the meaning of an area you wish to develop a presence in, such as “the European market” or “the Southeast Asian market.”
Context is also key for using idioms. Even if you grasp the meaning of these confusing terms, using them correctly and – most importantly, naturally – is where language learners often struggle. Looking at the context of an idiom’s use, as well as its meaning, makes it easier to incorporate these phrases like a native.
Keeping the vocabulary in context with example sentences along with the definition can help to raise awareness of the multiple meanings that English words can have and make sure you’re using the right words in the right context. Otherwise, you could be asked about the development of the Asian market and end up talking about their new bakery section that recently opened beside the dried fruit. Oh no!
A language chunk is a phrase of two or more words that appear together and act as one unit. “Nevertheless” is one word, while “How do you do?” is one unit that can communicate meaning. Studies show it is much easier for foreign language learners to memorise and store chunks of language in their memory rather than individual words.
Looking again at our example of “market” – it can be used to make countless chunks that are much easier to remember than the word on its own. Putting different words together to make chunks or phrases will not only widen your vocabulary, but also make your memory stronger when recalling the word.
This can be very helpful with the most common type of chunk; the dreaded phrasal verb. Memorizing the meaning of “bring up” may be simple, but “chunking” it with some related words, such as “bring up the issue with you” or “bring up the topic in the meeting” gives you more practice with the word as well as making it easier to produce it when needed.
Being able to recognize a word when you’re reading or listening to someone is just one aspect of vocabulary knowledge. This is known as “receptive language.” The part that causes issues for many people is their “productive language” or actually using the vocabulary themselves. So while it’s great to have a long word list for the pharmaceutical sales industry, how can you make sure you are able to produce those English words and phrases spontaneously when you need them?
The key is to practice production of business English vocabulary yourself, both with writing and speaking. If you don’t have someone willing to sit down and speak with you, try recording yourself speaking – using your smartphone on a topic unprepared for a minute – then listen back and see how many of your target words you used. Your nerves may cause you to slip up and make mistakes, but no one will ever hear these recordings if you don’t want them to!
For writing, practice writing emails, reports, memos, whatever your job requires you to do, and use your new vocabulary within it. All that wonderful business vocabulary is just sitting in your brain, and it’ll go stale and rot if you don’t try to use it. As we say in English, “use it or lose it!”
“Rinse and repeat” is an English idiom meaning, “Do it again. And again. And again.” The cold hard truth that many students can’t grasp about learning a language is that it doesn’t happen overnight. Learning vocabulary, like any part of studying a foreign language, is not like saving a file to a computer; make the folder, save the file, and it’s there forever. Learning a language takes time and repetition in order to reach the level of Business English that you will need for professional success.
Whatever practices you take on for helping with your vocabulary building, try to make a habit of it. Whether it’s reading an article in English related to your field, practicing business English vocabulary with flashcards, or even just pushing yourself to chat with your colleagues in English, get into the habit of doing whatever it is you find most helpful for developing your skills and knowledge.
Repetition not only has the benefit of helping you get better with your language skills, but can also help develop your confidence in your abilities. The more you speak with colleagues or clients in English, the more confident you will feel each time, and confidence is key in the business world.
Author: Clare Kelleher, MA TESOL
October 2021
—————
Go to Chapter 1 of our Business English Idiom Series
Go to Chapter 2 of our Business English Idiom Series
Go to Chapter 3 of our Business English Idiom Series
Go to Chapter 4 of our Business English Idiom Series
Take our free business English idiom test online now and discover how well you understand the expressions (=uitdrukkingen) used in everyday professional English.
Then let’s meet in a free consultation appointment.
Vocabulary – words, phrases, idioms, collocations, phrasal verbs – no matter how you describe it, you need these language building blocks. And whatever your level, beginner to advanced, you need to keep adding and refreshing your vocabulary. Maybe you have forgotten some old words, or maybe you need to add new words that relate to your job….? You can build your vocabulary with a private customized course that focuses on the language that is the most important for you!
50 Business English Words you Already Know!
If English is the corporate language where you work, there may be some employees who need to speak and write at a more professional level. Visit our in-company training page to learn more about our approach and services.
Would you enjoy a business English group course? Group courses are available at intermediate and advanced levels. Private training and in-company training is customized and available for all levels.
With a private business English course, you can focus on the words and phrases that are most important for you and your job.
Would you like to take a free English level test? You can do it online now.
In 2021, we are seeing most of our clients online via Zoom, Google Meet, etc. However, we offer in-person lessons at great locations in Amstelveen, Amsterdam, den Haag and your office in the Randstad. Ask us.
Call +31 20 823 0569. We are happy to speak with you in English or Dutch!
Business English idioms improve and enrich professional communications with “tried and true” expressions that “pack a big punch.” This alphabetical business English idioms list is Chapter 2 in our idiom series. It follows our previous idiom post, “20 Business English Idioms Explained, Chapter 1.” If you have not already seen Chapter 1, and if you want to start at the beginning, go to “Learn 20 Business English Idioms, Chapter 1.”
Let’s review the topic of business English idioms. Idioms are fixed phrases (collocations) used to communicate in a nonliteral way. Idiomatic phrases are often visual, sometimes funny, and usually create little “word pictures” in the mind of the listener. English idioms are challenging for those who speak English as a second language because the words cannot be translated literally, and the idioms must be spoken correctly, “word for word.” Any word reordering or substitutions may cause communication failure. Or laughter. Or both!
1. Down and out ?
Poor; without hope.
Example: Although my friend’s company looked pretty down and out last year, this year it’s making a comeback.
2. Down for the count ☹️
Unlikely to recover.
Example: I was so sick when I had Covid that I really thought I was down for the count, but thank God, I’m feeling fine now.
3. Down on my luck ?
Having had bad experiences; feeling that the prospects are not good; feeling like a loser: feeling unlucky.
Example: I was feeling really down on my luck after I was rejected for five positions.
4. Down to the wire ?
Unsettled or incomplete until the very last moment or deadline. To the very end; finishing with no time to spare.
Example: Suzanna worked right down to the wire on the grant proposal. She barely finished in time.
5. Fallout ?
Negative consequences; bad results after an event, change or decision.
Example: The fallout from the merger was terrible; hundreds of people were laid off.
6. Fast track a project ⏩
Make something a priority; to speed up the delivery/completion date.
Example: My boss said that we needed to fast track the reports.
7. Filthy rich ??
Extremely rich. Having a ridiculously large amount of wealth. Like the people in the header image on this page.
Example: The owner of that fast food franchise started with nothing, and now he is filthy rich.
8. Full plate ?
A lot of work to do or problems to deal with.
Example: The accountant certainly had a full plate completing our income tax forms by the deadline.
9. Get off to a flying start ✈️
To begin an activity very smoothly and successfully.
Example: The new marketing campaign got off to a flying start; sales immediately increased.
10. Get off my back! ?
To ask someone to stop over managing, pressuring or criticizing you.
Example: I had to tell my new colleague to get off my back. She was always telling me how to do my job. (Note: Watch out, this is quite strong and could offend someone.)
11. Give someone a big hand ??
To give a round of applause; to show appreciation.
Example: The managers gave the sales team a big hand when they closed the million euro deal.
12. Glass ceiling ?
An unofficially acknowledged, invisible barrier to advancement in a profession, especially affecting women and members of minorities.
Example: It seemed impossible to break the glass ceiling until several women made it to the C-suite.
13. Golden handshake ?
A nice severance package, often arranged in advance.
Example: Don’t worry about Phyllis. She got a nice golden handshake when they let her go.
14. Get off on the wrong foot with someone ?
To begin a relationship in a way that is awkward, uncomfortable and likely to fail.
Example: Sheila, the new hire, got off on the wrong foot with her colleagues, and now they are all mad at her.
15. Go for it ?
To do something with passion, even when you think you will fail. Often used to encourage someone.
Example: I did not think I had any chance to get that management job, but my partner said, “Just go for it!”, and I did. I got the job!
16. Have a gut feeling ?
To feel something intuitively.
Example: The HR department manager had a gut feeling that the job candidate would not fit on the team.
17. Heads will roll ?
People will get penalized or fired.
Example: OMG, the last project was a fiasco. We lost a lot of money and now, heads will roll!
18. Head something off at the pass ?
To stop something from happening.
Example: The president of the company anticipated a lawsuit, so he headed it off at the pass by offering a big cash settlement to the unhappy client.
19. Her bark is worse than her bite ?
Someone sounds meaner than they really are.
Example: Don’t worry about her. She sounds tough, but her bark is worse than her bite.
20. In the doghouse ?
When people are mad at you; to be in disfavor or disgrace, as though you are being punished.
Example: I think I am in the doghouse because of some things I said in the meeting. I guess I offended some people.
OK! That was the first half of the business English idioms chapter 2 list. Now let’s carry on and “keep this show on the road.” (= keep the action going; keep everything moving)
21. It’s a gold mine ?
Very valuable and capable of producing ongoing wealth.
Example: Wow! That new stock has turned out to be a gold mine.
22. It’s a rip-off ?
Something intended to exploit others for money; a product or service that is deliberately overpriced or of poor quality.
Example: They bought some new software that was really expensive, but I think it was just a big rip-off.
23. It’s a steal ?
Something that is very under-priced; a real bargain; great value for the money.
Example: The department store is offering 50% off on all designer brand winter coats. That’s a real steal!
24. Keep everyone on their toes ?
Keep people alert; energetic, attentive, motivated, productive.
Example: The owner of that IT company is famous for keeping the sales team on their toes with great incentives.
25. Keep everything on track ?️
Work according to a schedule or project plan.
Example: Your role as project officer is to ensure that you keep everything on track.
26. Keep our heads above water ??
To manage to survive, especially financially; to keep up with one’s work.
Example: In Covid times, the restaurant owner was able to keep his head above water by adding home delivery.
27. Money to burn ?
To have a lot of money to spend on things that are not necessary.
Example: The CEO had money to burn, so he totally redecorated his office with expensive antiques.
28. My gut tells me ?
To have a strong, intuitive feeling about something.
Example: My gut tells me that we should not expand our product line right now.
29. No BS ?
BS means bullshit. No BS is the opposite of BS. This is casual English and should be used with care as any reference to the word “shit” can be seen by some people as rude, crude or offensive.
Example: There is no BS with my boss; she is very direct and always “tells it like it is.”
30. On top of trends ?
To be aware of and responding to changes, direction of changes and their prevalence as it relates to your business.
Example: We hired someone to keep on top of trends so our company could be more competitive.
31. Out of line with ?
Not consistent with expectations; different than the norm.
Example: If your pay is out of line with your peers’ pay, it’s time to make an appointment with the boss.
32. Pay through the nose ??
To pay too much for something.
Example: We are always paying through the nose for paper that can be found cheaper somewhere else.
33. Pay top dollar ?
To pay a lot of money for something.
Example: The customer paid top dollar for the new car with all the gadgets.
34. Pick your brains ?
Obtain information by questioning someone who is better informed about a subject than oneself.
Example: I picked her brains about the company I am interviewing with, so now I think I have a good idea how to pitch myself in the interview.
35. Play it by ear ??
To do something by feel and instinct rather than with a plan, to improvise.
Example: The meeting will be held sometime next week, but we can’t decide on a day and time yet. We’ll just have to play it by ear.
36. Price skyrocketed ?
Increase quickly to a very high level or amount.
Example: The real estate prices skyrocketed last year. Now I can’t afford a house in the city center.
37. Pull the wool over someone’s eyes ??
To deceive someone.
Example: Working there is not at all what I expected! I think the interviewer really pulled the wool over my eyes when she described the friendly working environment.
38. Put your money where your mouth is??
To support something that you believe in, especially by giving/spending money on it.
Example: They keep promising an office refurbishment, but they never get around to it. It’s time they put their money where their mouth is!
39. Put in a good word ?️
Say something positive about someone; often to a person with greater power.
Hey, can you put in a good word about me with the HR department? I really think I am ready for a promotion.
OK… that’s it for this Chapter 2 idiom list. We hope you enjoy using these business English idioms. And if you would like to further develop your business English, we have some suggestions for you. Please keep reading and take the free test.
Go to Chapter 1 of our Business English Idiom series.
Go to Chapter 3 of our Business English Idioms series.
Take our free business English idiom test online now and discover how well you understand the expressions (=uitdrukkingen) used in everyday professional English.
If English is the corporate language where you work, there may be some employees who need to speak and write at a more professional level. Visit our in-company training page to learn more about our approach and services.
Vocabulary – words, phrases, idioms, collocations, phrasal verbs – no matter how you describe it, you need these language building blocks. And whatever your level, beginner to advanced, you need to keep adding and refreshing your vocabulary. Maybe you have forgotten some old words, or maybe you need to add new words that relate to your job….? You can build your vocabulary with a private customized course that focuses on the language that is the most important for you! Would you like to speak with a native speaker teacher in a free consultation appointment?
Would you enjoy a business English group course? Group courses are available at intermediate and advanced levels. Private training and in-company training is customized and available for all levels.
With a private business English course, you can focus on the words and phrases that are most important for you and your job.
Would you like to take a free English level test? You can do it online now.
In 2020 and 2021, we are seeing most of our clients online via Zoom, Google Meet, etc.
Call +31 20 823 0569. We are happy to speak with you in English or Dutch!
Contributors: Brenda de Jong-Pauley, Kerry Finlayson and Marike Duizendstra-Wolters
August 2021
Business English idioms are fixed phrases (collocations) used to communicate something in a nonliteral way. Idiomatic phrases are often visual, sometimes funny, and usually create little “word pictures” in the mind of the listener. English idioms are challenging for those who speak English as a second language because the words cannot be translated literally.
English idioms are the delicious little phrases that “pack a punch” (= have a lot of power) and give you “a lot of bang for your buck” (= value for your investment of money or effort). Idioms are meaning-dense messages that natives love and non-native speakers can only guess about. If you often feel confused when listening to native speakers, one reason is the common presence of idioms. But don’t worry! This alphabetized (ABC) list of 20 idioms will give you a place to begin learning these fun and powerful elements of business English communication.
1. Angel investor
No, this is not about religion. An angel investor is a person or company who provides financial backing for small start-ups or entrepreneurs.
Example: Mr. Jones pitched his new business to lots of angel investors. Finally, one them decided to invest.
2. At arm’s length
A social distance that discourages personal contact or familiarity.
Example: I am not too friendly at work. I like to keep my colleagues at arm’s length.
3. Bad egg
An untrustworthy person.
Example: The new sales person was a bad egg who lied to customers and mistreated his colleagues.
4. Bang for the buck
Value for money; performance for cost.
Example: My cable company gives customers a good bang for the buck with bundled prices for TV, high speed internet, streaming entertainment and phone services.
5. Belt and suspenders
Being very careful. Minimizing risk and having multiple ways to prevent failure.
Example: I saved the report to Drive and emailed it to myself. You know, belt and suspenders!
6. Business before pleasure
You should do your work before you have fun
Example: Yes I know that the party starts soon, but I have to finish this report; you know how it is, business before pleasure!
7. Belt tightening
To generally reduce expenses, investment and spending.
Example: If demand for oil decreases, then I guess oil companies will just have to tighten their belts.
8. Big wig
An important person with high status.
Example: Don’t even try to get an appointment with her. She’s quite a big wig now.
9. Bitter pill to swallow
Bad news; something unpleasant that must be accepted.
Example: Getting fired after having worked so hard was a bitter pill to swallow.
10. Blank check
Complete freedom of action or control.
Example: The millionaire CEO funded the product research with a blank check. There was no ceiling on the budget!
Congratulations. You are halfway there!
Let’s learn ten more business English idioms…
11. Bounce back
To return to a good condition; to recover from a blow or defeat.
Example: The restaurant business will hopefully bounce back in the new year.
12. Breadwinner
The person whose income is the primary source of support for their family.
Example: Maria was the main breadwinner in her family. She took a job she didn’t like because it paid very well.
13. Caught red-handed / caught in the act
Seen / observed doing something illegal or immoral; “caught in the act.”
Example: The manager was caught red-handed stealing from petty cash.
14. Can’t quite put my fingers on it
Something that one feels or knows intuitively but cannot quite articulate, explain or defend.
Example: I have the feeling that there’s something wrong with the new guy in accounting. I think he’s a little shady, but I’m not sure why. I can’t quite put my finger on it.
15. Come to think of it
To suddenly remember something; to suddenly understand something. To make a mental connection or have a sudden insight about.
Example: Come to think of it, he used to work for the competition. Could he be a corporate spy?
16. Compare apples and oranges
Comparing two things that are not suitable for comparison.
Example: You can’t compare our little startup with a multinational company. That’s comparing apples and oranges.
17. Climb the corporate ladder
Moving up to a higher position in a corporation.
Example: Although Leslie just graduated from college a few years ago, she has already climbed several rungs on the corporate ladder.
18. Corporate raider
A financier who makes a practice of making hostile takeover bids for companies, either to control their policies or to resell them for a profit.
Example: Our company stock was undervalued and that’s what attracted some corporate raiders.
19. Cost a pretty penny
To be very expensive; to cost a lot of money.
Example: The addition of the onsite health club, child care center and parking garage cost the company a pretty penny.
20. Crunch some numbers
To calculate various figures.
Example: The management said they had to crunch some more numbers before deciding about employee raises this year.
OK… that’s it for this list. We hope you enjoy using these business English idioms. And if you would like to further develop your business English, we have some suggestions for you. Please keep reading and take the free test.
No problem. We’ve got you covered with 4 free idiom lessons. You are currently in Chapter 1 of our Business English Idiom Series
Go to Chapter 2 of our Business English Idiom Series
Go to Chapter 3 of our Business English Idiom Series
Go to Chapter 4 of our Business English Idiom Series
Take our free business English idiom test online now and discover how well you understand the expressions (=uitdrukkingen) used in everyday professional English.
If English is the corporate language where you work, there may be some employees who need to speak and write at a more professional level. Visit our in-company training page to learn more about our approach and services.
Vocabulary – words, phrases, idioms, collocations, phrasal verbs – no matter how you describe it, you need these language building blocks. And whatever your level, beginner to advanced, you need to keep adding and refreshing your vocabulary. Maybe you have forgotten some old words, or maybe you need to add new words that relate to your job….? You can build your vocabulary with a private customized course that focuses on the language that is the most important for you! Would you like to speak with a native speaker teacher in a free consultation appointment?
Would you enjoy a business English group course? Group courses are available at intermediate and advanced levels. Private training and in-company training is customized and available for all levels.
With a private business English course, you can focus on the words and phrases that are most important for you and your job.
Would you like to take a free English level test? You can do it online now.
In 2020 and 2021, we are seeing most of our clients online via Zoom, Google Meet, etc.
Call +31 20 823 0569. We are happy to speak with you in English or Dutch!
Contributors: Brenda de Jong-Pauley, Kerry Finlayson and Marike Duizendstra-Wolters
August 2021
Would you like to take a free business English test?
Would you like a free online consultation appointment with a Business English teacher?
Brenda de Jong-Pauley M.A., June 2021
The question of which is better – online virtual business english training or in-person business english training – has just gotten hot. After one year of virtual training as the only option in a locked-down Netherlands, spring 2021 brings us new freedom about where and how to study. But not everyone wants to go back to the classroom and the office. Virtual learning is definitely here to stay. But what’s best?
• zero travel time
• lower price point
• no babysitter!
• no need to get “dressed up”
• no worries about bad weather
• no hassles with parking spaces or train schedules
• the same quality and personalization as in-person lessons
• great native-speaker trainers from our Amsterdam based team
If this sounds good to you, we encourage you to “try us out” in a free online consultation appointment with a teacher.
While some people may still imagine that online English training means listening to a boring grammar lecture, that is definitely not our style.
The English Center’s Live Online approach means that a lesson on Zoom is just like a private English lesson in Amsterdam or Den Haag, but without the travel time. One-to-one private English lessons online bring a top native-speaker English teacher from our Amsterdam-based team to you, wherever you are!
In the lesson, you will talk a lot and get lots of corrections. The content and activities will be the things that are then most useful for you and your career. Whether you are in sales or IT, the law or the arts, we’ve got you covered. Want to focus more on writing, or is it speaking English that makes you sweat? Your training will suit you, your level and your needs.
With distance learning for business English, you can work with a great teacher, no matter where you are. OK, it helps if you are in or close to a CET time zone, but with more clients online, we are now proud to work with individuals and companies as far away as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Palestine and Russia.
While the words “in-company” definitely suggest on-location/at your office, the Covid lockdown has opened new possibilities for quality online, small group, virtual courses in business English. Your team can work with our top native-speaker trainers and follow a customized course built just for your company. And you have lots of options! Weekly training, one-off workshops, intensives and more.
Do you prefer in-person, onsite business English training? We can do that. Please keep reading.
Read more about in-company training and request a proposal.
YES you CAN!
We get it. You are “sick and tired” of Zoom meetings and fed up with computer screens. You are dying to go somewhere and see some new faces and places. If you live in or around Amsterdam, Haarlem, Den Haag or Amstelveen, we’ve got you covered. The English Center has great locations in the aforementioned cities. With charming English teachers in charming classrooms, you know you are going to enjoy your business English course! And after each appointment, you can explore beautiful Amsterdam, hit a cafe or maybe visit a museum. Yes, the city is truly open again!
YES you CAN!
Read more about in-company training and request a proposal.
We plan to return to our beautiful classrooms on the Binnenkant in Amsterdam – right by Amsterdam Centraal Station – in January 2022. Visit our website for more details about:
• Intermediate Business English
• Advanced Business English for Fluency
• Business English Breakfast Intensive
If you are not close by, you will of course choose online training. Intensives are typically 20 hours and can be taken over one or two weeks. But if you are here in the Netherlands, you may want to meet with us in-person and thankfully, that is now possible! In-person training is “gezellig” and we are all ready to be more social, eh? Plus we have some really delightful locations in the heart of Amsterdam and Den Haag. These great classrooms make your learning experience even more special.
What skills do you most need to improve? Presentation skills? Diplomatic English? Pronunciation? Writing? Grammar? Or “all of the above?” You can be sure that your training will be 100% customized to help you achieve your goals.
All courses – on Zoom and in-person – are taught by our carefully selected team of native- speaker English teachers from the UK, Canada, the US, South Africa and Australia. Your satisfaction and success means everything to us!
Let’s start the ball rolling (= get started) with a free consultation appointment. Call +31 20 823 0569.
****
Would you like a free online consultation appointment with a Business English teacher?
Would you like to take a free level test?
Would you like to take a free business English test?
Would you like to see our in-company English page?
Would you like to request a language proficiency profile for some of your colleagues?
Call us at +31 20 823 0569. We are happy to speak with you in English or Dutch.
