Why Business English is Far More Than Just ‘Good English’
Just knowing English doesn’t necessarily mean you can use it effectively in a professional environment. Meetings, interviews, presentations, formal emails, and written communication all demand something more: clarity, structure, strategy, and appropriate style.
Business English focuses not only on vocabulary but also on the correct use of grammar, tenses, and tone, all tailored to the professional sector.
Examples: What Separates General English from Business English
See how professional communication differs in practice:
- ✉️ Professional Emails
- General English: I want to ask you something about the report.
- Business English: I’d like to follow up regarding the Q2 report. Could you clarify a few points?
- 📞 Online Meetings and Interviews
- General English: I think this is a good idea.
- Business English: From a strategic perspective, I believe this proposal aligns with our objectives.
Correct Use of Grammar and Structure in Business English Communication
Professional communication requires more than just “the right words.” Grammatical accuracy and proper structure ensure your intentions are clear and your tone is professional.
✔️ Passive Voice for Emphasising Outcomes
We finished the report yesterday. → The report was completed yesterday.
✔️ Precise Tenses for Accuracy
I sent the file. → I have already forwarded the file to the team.
✔️ Connective Words for Smooth Flow
We received your offer. We will reply. → Thank you for your offer. However, we would appreciate some time to review it.
✔️ Phrases of Purpose
I want to talk about the budget. → The purpose of today’s meeting is to address key budget concerns.
✔️ Polite Phrasing
Can you send it to me? → Would you mind forwarding it to me at your earliest convenience?
Using English Tenses in Business English
The correct application of tenses adds clarity, professionalism, and helps to accurately convey actions or intentions.
- Present Simple – for general information and regular practices
- Our team handles these requests on a daily basis.
- Present Continuous – for something happening temporarily
- We are currently working on a new logistics plan.
- Present Perfect – for recent actions with an impact on the present
- I’ve sent the updated contract to the legal department.
- Present Perfect Continuous – for actions that started in the past and continue until now (or have just finished)
- We’ve been working on this project since March, and we’re finally ready to present the results.
- Future (Will / Going to / Present Continuous) – for plans and fixed appointments
- We will send the documents by Friday.
- We’re going to launch the new product next month.
- I’m meeting the client on Tuesday.
Combined Examples in a Business Context
- 📧 We’ve completed the draft, and we’re currently reviewing the final version before submission.
- 🧑💼 We’ve achieved great progress this quarter, and next week we’ll present the results.
- 🎙 I’ve been working in the logistics sector for over ten years, and I’m now seeking a leadership role.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Professional English!
Speaking Business English isn’t just about changing words – it’s about changing your mindset. You’ll communicate with clarity, confidence, and professionalism, whilst avoiding misunderstandings and demonstrating your true value.
Want to elevate your professional English?
At Bertamini Multi-language School, our Business English courses are designed for the real demands of the job market, focusing on communication, writing, and language use in international environments.
