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used in the conversation is “end up”. It means eventually reach, do or decide. In the
conversation, Alice was referring to the outcome of the negotiation.

3. Do you have a chance to use phrasal verbs or idioms in your conversations?

Sample answer:
Yes, I would often try to use phrasal verbs or idioms whenever I have the chance. It
gives me an opportunity to practice. I look up new idioms and phrasal verbs online,
then try to use them within the day. It is indeed a great learning experience. When you
use phrasal verbs, you have a taste of how it is to be a native speaker.

1. You are at a meeting with a colleague, discussing business opportunities.
You assure yourself to use phrasal verbs. This will help you show your prow-
ess.

Sample answer:
I have heard talk about a new shopping center opening next year. If we cut back on
the business expenses for the next few months, we may be able to open a new branch
there. It’s bound to be a huge hit with the consumers, and we’d end up with bigger
profits. This has promises of being the next big thing in the city. With all of the promo-
tions and ads for the new shopping center, people will certainly flock to check it out.
We should get together by next week so we could run through our business strategy.
We need to iron out the details as soon as possible and submit the proposal before
someone else beats us to it. How do these sound to you? I won’t take no for an answer
because, I am looking forward for a very good business relationship.

2. You are at a meeting with a colleague, discussing business opportunities. To
help yourself break a leg, you’ve used business idioms.

Sample answer:
We need to do some research on the possible costs of setting up a branch. Let’s try to
get a ballpark figure of how much money we need to raise. We may need to get some
bean counters on board to make sure the figures add up. Hopefully, we’ll be able to
break even by the third month. It’s a long shot, but with the investors backing us up,
we should be able to make a profit in the long run. This is a good opportunity for us
to spread our wings. We already have some good ideas brewing. All we need to do
is discuss the details and present the final proposal to our investors. Maybe we can
conclude and brain storm through that. I would think twice if I see others ideas are
better than mine. By the way, is there anyone from this room, who would like to speak
out their mind? The board will be lending all ears to check which suggestion will be
picked.

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