Business English for your next video call
The phrases that make you sound calm and clear in online meetings, from joining the call to disagreeing politely and wrapping up.
By Mathias C.
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Most people who struggle with meetings in English don't lack vocabulary. They lack a handful of ready-made sentences for the moments that feel awkward: interrupting, asking someone to repeat, disagreeing without sounding rude.
Learn these by heart and you'll stop translating in your head at exactly the wrong moment. They are part of what we cover for people learning a language for work.
Business English phrases to open a video call
- "Hi everyone, can you hear me all right?"
- "Shall we get started? I know we're short on time."
- "Just to set the scene, the goal today is to…"
Small talk before a call is normal in English-speaking teams. A simple "How's your week going?" is enough. You don't need a long answer either: "Busy, but good, thanks!" works.
Business English phrases for bad connections and fast speakers
| Situation | Say |
|---|---|
| You didn't catch it | "Sorry, you broke up a bit there. Could you say that again?" |
| Someone speaks too fast | "Could you go over that last point once more?" |
| You need to check you understood | "So if I understand correctly, you're saying…" |
| Everyone talks at once | "Sorry, go ahead." / "After you." |
"So if I understand correctly…" is the most useful line in this article. It buys you time, it shows you're listening, and it lets the other person correct you before a misunderstanding grows.
How to give your opinion and disagree politely in business English
English meetings often sound softer than they are. People rarely say "No, that's wrong."
- "I see your point, but I'm not sure that works for…"
- "That's a fair point. Have we thought about…?"
- "Could I add something here?"
- "I'd push back a little on that."
The softener at the start ("I see your point", "That's fair") carries most of the politeness. Keep your actual argument short and direct after it.
Business English phrases to wrap up a meeting
- "Let's recap the next steps."
- "Who's taking care of that?"
- "I'll send a quick summary after the call."
- "Thanks, everyone. Talk soon."
How to practise business English for video calls
Reading a list won't make it automatic, whether you prepare a client call or the IELTS speaking test. What works is rehearsal: a tutor plays your manager or client, you run a ten-minute mock meeting, and they stop you every time you hesitate. Ask for that explicitly when you book (our 10-minute method for choosing a tutor shows how to filter by specialty): many tutors specialise in business English and will prepare the scenario for you.
Not sure where your English stands? The level quiz takes two minutes.
Questions about business English for meetings
How do I interrupt politely in an English meeting?
Use “Sorry to interrupt, could I add something here?” or “Can I jump in for a second?”. Wait for a short pause if you can.
How do I say I didn't understand on a call?
“Sorry, you broke up a bit there. Could you say that again?” works for bad connections and fast speakers alike, without sounding awkward.
How do I disagree without sounding rude in English?
Start with a softener such as “That's a fair point” or “I see what you mean”, then state your view directly: “but I'm not sure it works for the budget.”
Is small talk expected before a video call?
In many English-speaking teams, yes, for a minute or two. A simple “How's your week going?” is enough.
How can I practise business English quickly?
Mock meetings with a tutor who plays your manager or client. Ask for a tutor who lists business English as a specialty and bring a real meeting agenda.
