What is business English?

Summary

In this video, Andrew Smith clarifies what Business English is and what it isn't. He differentiates it from General English, highlighting its use in professional settings like meetings and negotiations. Smith dispels common myths about the necessity for complex grammar and jargon, advocating for clear and concise communication. He offers practical tips for learners, such as finding a good teacher, practicing business-specific expressions, and embracing mistakes as part of the learning process.

Takeaways

• 😀 Business English is a specialized form of English used in the workplace, focusing on functions and situations like meetings, presentations, and negotiations.
• 🏢 General English is learned for everyday use, while Business English is tailored for professional settings and tasks.
• 🌐 In an international business context, it's crucial to communicate clearly and concisely, avoiding overly complex language and jargon.
• ❌ A common misconception is that Business English requires complex grammar and technical vocabulary, but simplicity and clarity are key.
• 📚 Knowing basic grammatical structures like present simple, continuous, past simple, and perfect tenses is more important than complex grammar.
• 💡 The main goal in business communication is to convey messages in the simplest, shortest, and most direct way possible.
• 🚫 Avoid using excessive business jargon, idioms, and phrasal verbs that might confuse non-native English speakers in a global business setting.
• 👨‍🏫 Finding a good Business English teacher or program that fits your needs can significantly help in learning and improving business communication skills.
• 📝 Practice making general English sentences more formal and business-like to transition your language skills into a professional context.
• 💪 Embrace making mistakes as a part of the learning process, and approach Business English with a positive and adventurous attitude.

Q & A

What is Business English according to Andrew Smith?

Business English is a style of English used in the workplace, focusing on specific business functions or situations such as meetings, presentations, negotiations, selling, networking, or public speaking.

How does Business English differ from General English?

General English is the English used in everyday situations, such as talking about travel, food, culture, or family. Business English, on the other hand, is specifically tailored for professional settings and work-related tasks.

What is a common misconception about Business English according to the video?

A common misconception is that Business English requires the use of complicated grammar rules, long sentences, and complex grammatical forms. However, the video clarifies that the main goal is to communicate effectively and directly without being overly formal or complicated.

Why is simplicity important in Business English communication?

Simplicity in Business English is crucial because it allows for clear and efficient communication, ensuring that the message is understood quickly and accurately without unnecessary complexity.

What are some basic grammatical structures that are important for Business English?

Basic grammatical structures important for Business English include present simple, present continuous, past simple, past continuous, present and past perfect, and future tense.

Does Business English require the use of technical jargon and idioms?

No, Business English does not necessarily require the use of technical jargon, idioms, or slang. It is more about clear, concise, and direct communication that can be understood by both native and non-native English speakers.

What advice does Andrew Smith give for someone starting to learn Business English?

Andrew Smith suggests finding a good Business English teacher or program, practicing formal variations of general English sentences, and not taking the learning process too seriously, encouraging making mistakes as a way to learn.

What is the role of a Business English teacher according to the video?

A Business English teacher helps learners to adapt their language skills to professional contexts, focusing on practical communication in business settings rather than theoretical knowledge.

How can one practice Business English outside of a classroom setting?

One can practice Business English by taking part in business-related conversations, writing business emails or reports, and engaging in role-plays or simulations of business scenarios.

What is the importance of attending a Business English speaking program as mentioned in the video?

Attending a Business English speaking program can provide practical experience and immediate feedback in a business context, which can accelerate the learning process and improve confidence in using English professionally.