Formal textbook verbs shown next to the plain everyday words a native speaker uses at work

Formal Words That Make You Sound Stiff in Business English

You’re writing a status update. You could say “I’ll get the numbers from finance,” but that feels too casual for a work message, so you upgrade it: “I’ll obtain the figures from finance.” It looks more professional on the page. It’s the kind of verb that scored marks in school. Nobody could call it wrong. Here’s the catch. The formal words that make you sound stiff in business English are usually the ones that feel most professional when you type them. To a US, UK, or Canadian ear, “obtain” doesn’t read as polished. It reads as paperwork. The everyday verb a native colleague reaches for is almost always the short, plain one you talked yourself out of using. ...

June 28, 2026 · 7 min · FluentSphere
Professional business meeting with diverse team members discussing strategy

From Classroom to Boardroom: Advanced Business English

The journey from academic English to professional business communication requires more than just vocabulary expansion - it demands a complete shift in mindset and approach. Advanced business English skills are essential for career success in global markets and professional environments. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore essential strategies for excelling in business settings, from mastering key terminology to crafting effective professional communications. Mastering Professional Communication The journey from academic English to professional communication requires more than just vocabulary expansion - it demands a complete shift in mindset and approach. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore essential strategies for excelling in business settings, from mastering key terminology to crafting eff ...

May 2, 2025 · 3 min