Functional Language for Business
In this Business English learning online post, we look at some useful phrases frequently used in communication in a business environment. There are example sentences provided below showing how to use each one.
Asking for Permission
- Could I...
- May I...
- Can I...
- I would like to...
- Please let me know if ... is suitable (convenient).
Rearranging an Appointment
- Unfortunately I cannot attend... on the [date]
- Could we meet at the [place] on the [day] to discuss...
- ... would suit me better.
Informing
- I wish to inform you that...
- It is necessary for us to...
- Please feel free to contact ... if you require more details.
Explaining/Giving Instructions
- You should...
- Please contact...
- It is necessary to...
- When you have completed the project, please email/deliver the details to...
Example Sentences
Asking for Permission- Could I pop into your office to see you about an urgent issue?
- May I call you after the meeting to discuss another matter?
- Can I call you back in about 10 minutes - I'm busy with a client at the moment.
- I would like to show you the presentation for tommorrow's meeting, do you have time?
- Please let me know if Friday afternoon is suitable to go over (review) the plans.
Rearranging an Appointment
- Unfortunately I cannot attend the conference on the 17th
- Could we meet at the the conference center on the wednesday to discuss the agenda.
- Tommorrow/next week/ later today would suit me better. I'm too busy at the moment.
Informing
- I wish to inform you that there will be a delay in the delivery of your order.
- It is necessary for us to review you account as it has not been paid this month.
- Please feel free to contact our sales manager if you require more details.
Explaining/Giving Instructions
- You should include the sales figures from this month last year, as a comparison.
- Please contact the customer service department with your request.
- It is necessary to reserve the conference room one week in advance of the date you wish to use it.
- When you have completed the project, please email/deliver the details to the project manager whose name is on the file.