Discussing Issues
Useful Phrases
Making Excuses
If there is a problem, it is often important to provide an excuse for something not going as planned. These phrases are used to make excuses for a problem.
I'm sorry but...
I'm very sorry about that...
You'll have to forgive me but..
The reason for that is...
Example:
I'm very sorry but we will not certify the union.
I'm sorry but the dimensions on your order sheet are in error.
I'm sorry but we don't produce off-the-shelf products.
Agreeing
Showing agreement with others during meetings and other negotiations is common. Here are some useful phrases used when agreeing with someone.
I see your point about ...
That's a great idea.
I see what you mean about ...
I completely agree with you about ...
That's a great idea about how to lower our energy costs.
I see your point about the optical scanner and reader.
I see your point about the electronic code.
That's a great idea about how to speed up the order cycle.
Disagreeing
At times it is necessary to disagree with others during meetings and other negotiations. Here are some useful phrases used when disagreeing with someone.
I'm afraid I don't agree with you.
I don't see how ...
Yes, but...
I doubt...
What I'm worried about is...
Possibly, but...
Are you sure that...
I'm not sure that...
Most of these phrases introduce the reason for disagreeing.
Example:
Possibly, but the optical-guided system is adequate for our needs.
I doubt that your distribution expenses will decrease.
What I'm worried about is how we'll operate without a dock leveler.
I don't see how an open source version of facebook is possible.