B1English

In Meetings

Use these phrases to actively participate in work meetings, share updates, and manage discussions.

Key Phrases

Voice
Starting the meeting

Right, let's get started.

neutral

A very common, natural way to get everyone's attention.

Giving an update · 3 ways to say it

Here is where we are with the project right now.

casual

Good for informal team updates.

I'll give you a quick update on our progress.

neutral

I would like to update you on our recent work.

polite

Use this in larger meetings or with clients.

Suggesting an idea · 2 ways to say it

Why don't we try a different approach this time?

casual

I think we should focus on the sales team first.

neutral
Agreeing · 2 ways to say it

Yeah, that works for me.

casual

Very natural when agreeing to a proposed plan or schedule.

I completely agree with you on that point.

neutral
Disagreeing · 3 ways to say it

I don't think that's a great idea.

casual

Direct; use only with close team members.

I'm not sure I agree with that approach.

neutral

I see your point, but we have a small budget.

polite

A soft way to disagree by acknowledging the other person first.

Asking to clarify · 2 ways to say it

Sorry, what exactly do you mean by that?

casual

Could you explain that in a little more detail?

polite
Postponing a topic · 2 ways to say it

Let's table this topic until next week.

neutral

US English — this means to postpone a discussion.

Shall we shelve this topic until next week?

polite

UK English — use 'shelve' to postpone, as 'table' means to discuss now.

Summarizing actions

So, to sum up, we will test the new software.

neutral

Practice Dialogue

Project Manager
Right, let's get started. I'll give you a quick update on the new software.
Team Member
Sure. Where are we with that?
Project Manager
Well, we've finished the main design, but we still have a few bugs to fix.
Team Member
Uh-huh. Maybe we should push the launch back a week?
Project Manager
I'm not sure I agree with that approach. The client expects it on Friday.
Team Member
Right. We need to consider their deadlines.
Project Manager
Exactly. How about we ask the testing team to work late tomorrow?
Team Member
Yeah, that works for me. I can help them out, too.
Project Manager
Perfect. To sum up, we will focus on testing until Friday.
Team Member
Sounds good to me.

More Work & Study (B1)

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