Negotiating can often be a challenging experience, even in your own language.
There are, however, a number of techniques which can help us to negotiate more successfully.
How to negotiate in English — practical phrases for work
Negotiation is a key skill in business — whether you’re selling a product, planning a project or asking for a better deal. In this short English lesson, you’ll watch a video, learn useful phrases for negotiating a price and practise how to respond when someone says, “That’s too expensive.”
This lesson is designed for intermediate (B1–B2) learners who want to feel more confident using English in workplace situations.
👂 While you watch
- 1. Why does the French company say no to Anna at first?
→ They say the price is too expensive.
- 2. What does Tom suggest she should do?
→ He tells her to call them back and start negotiating. He advises her to ask what price they’re willing to pay, offer a discount for a bigger order, and use polite phrases to reach an agreement.
- 3. What phrases does Tom teach Anna for negotiating?
“What kind of price are you willing to pay?”
- “I don’t think we can go that low.”
- “If you buy more stock, I can offer you a bigger discount.”
- “I’ll meet you halfway.”
- 4. What does “meet you halfway” mean in this situation?
→ It means to agree on a compromise price — somewhere between what each person wants.
- 5. What is the final result of Anna’s negotiation?
→ The company agrees to pay the full price for 5,000 Imperial Lemons, as long as she sends the contract that day.
English at work - Language for negotiating
Summary: Anna tries to make a sale to a French company — but they say her product is too expensive. With help from Tom, she learns how to negotiate better.
🧩 Useful phrases for business negotiation
From the video:
- “What kind of price are you willing to pay?”
- “I don’t think we can go that low.”
- “If you buy more stock, I can offer you a bigger discount.”
- “I’ll meet you halfway.”
💡 These phrases help you sound more confident and professional when negotiating — especially by phone or email.
🗣 Speaking activity: Negotiate with a partner
Choose one roleplay scenario and practise negotiating in pairs.
Option A — Price negotiation (business):
You’re selling a product to a customer who says your price is too high. Try to agree on a new deal.
Option B — Project planning:
You and your colleague need to agree on a deadline. One person wants more time, the other wants it done quickly. Negotiate a solution.
Option C — Social example (host setting):
You want to stay out a bit later than planned. Politely negotiate with your host about when to come back.
Use at least 3 of the phrases from the video in your conversation.
📈 Want to improve your English for business?
Join our Communication at Work course and build confidence in meetings, discussions and negotiations with small group practice in Edinburgh.
