Л.К. Науменко

Smart business idioms.
Оригинальные бизнес-идиомы

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Информация о книге

УДК 811.111(075.8)

ББК 81.2Англ-923

N30

Авторы:

Науменко Л. К. — доцент кафедры иностранных языков по экономическим направлениям Восточного института — Школы региональных и международных исследований Дальневосточного федерального университета. Почетный работник высшего профессионального образования, лауреат премии им.В. П. Вологдина.

Главная цель данной книги — познакомить читателя с самыми полезными, универсальными и легкими в использовании идиомами делового английского языка.

Важное достоинство пособия состоит в том, что приведенные в нем выражения подходят почти «на все случаи жизни» — для профессиональных дискуссий, деловых встреч, презентаций, переговоров, отчетов и писем.

Подобранные идиомы также полностью интернациональны. Их поймет любой собеседник в любой точке мира, они никак не связаны со спецификой и культурой англоговорящих стран.

Данное пособие — это не просто словарь. Более того, это не обычный «сборник идиом», но гибкий инструмент для тренировки и совершенствования практических навыков деловой коммуникации. В книге представлен отдельный, самостоятельный курс обучения. Он знакомит читателя с идиомами, дает их перевод и адекватные аналоги в русском языке, предлагает живые примеры использования, а также позволяет потренировать свое умение грамотно ввести их в речь.

В конце книги приведен список ответов на задания из пособия, что особо поможет тем, кто занимается языком самостоятельно.

УДК 811.111(075.8)

ББК 81.2Англ-923

© Науменко Л. К., 2016

© ООО «Проспект», 2016

Introduction

The intention of this book is to provide a selection of the most useful, most international and least confusing idioms to lighten the learning-load for a learner of English.

The first and main feature of this book is that it provides a range of idioms which can safely be used on almost any occasion from discussions and meetings to presentations, negotiations, reports and letters.

The second feature of this book is that all the idioms can be used wherever English is spoken. For this reason the idioms aren’t linked to any limited or specific areas of life or culture in English-speaking countries.

The idioms are arranged in alphabetical order to make it easier to find the right words at the right time and for the right purpose. A definition of each idiom is provided. Definitions are followed by example sentences which illustrates the meaning of the idioms. Each idiom appears at least five times in exercises throughout the book. This reinforcement is essential to the learning process and demonstrates how naturally and frequently these idioms occur in many contexts.

This book isn’t a dictionary. Also, it’s not simply “a book of idioms”, but a flexible course in practical business and professional communication, complete in itself. It incorporates the many essential idioms, which are often used, but rarely taught. It’s important to remember that, in essence, this book is a practical book and the learners will get most benefit from it by using it as such, whether they are working alone or with a teacher.

Answer key is provided to check the answers and will be especially helpful if the learners are working alone.

A is for

Above all (else) — most importantly (of all) — прежде всего, главным образом, в основном, больше всего.

We have several matters to consider. Above all, however, is the question of financing our new project.

According to — following, corresponding to, in relation to, as said by, depending on — согласно, в соответствии с, по утверждению, по словам, по мнению.

The foreman was disciplined according to the rules laid down for the offence.

Account for — to explain, to give a full or satisfactory answer for — отчитываться в чем-либо, отвечать за что-либо, объяснять что-либо.

Price rises can be accounted for by increased demand or decreased availability of supply.

Acid test — the most effective and essential test of a quality — серьезное испытание.

Road trials of the new car will provide the acid test of its safety and reliability.

Agree on/to/with — to reach or make agreement about, to accept, to have the same opinion as, to come to the same conclusion — соглашаться с кем-либо (with), c чем-либо (to), на что-либо, уславливаться (on).

I am afraid we cannot agree to your offer.

The negotiators quickly agreed on two matters.

Ahead of time/schedule — earlier than arranged, expected or planned — досрочно с опережением графика.

The Minister’s arrival ahead of schedule caused a minor panic.

Aim at — to plan to, to try to, to reach or hit an objective, goal or target — стремиться, нацеливаться, прицеливаться.

This experiment aims at showing how to measure the volume of water.

(The) aim of exercise — the purpose or objective of this activity which may not immediately be clear or apparent — цель деятельности.

The aim of the exercise is to give a general explanation of how the product operates.

All important — most important, urgent or necessary — крайне важный, первостепенной важности.

Speed, surprise and superiority are all important as factors for success in commercial operations.

All in all — taking everything into account and weighing it up, summarizing by comparing the positive and negative factors — в общем, все.

Although the company has had its problems over the last twelve months, all in all it has been a successful year.

All or nothing — to be or to be aiming at one hundred per cent of something — все или ничего.

This company has an all or nothing policy with its smaller suppliers.

Allow for — to take into consideration or account — принимать во внимание, учитывать, допускать.

Company cash flow projections are inaccurate; they don’t allow for bad debts or salary increases.

All systems go — to be in a condition or attitude of total readiness to go ahead — все работает нормально, все в полной готовности.

How do you feel about the new project? — I am on all systems go.

Along these lines — in this way or according to or by following this method — вроде, типа.

Your new employment contract will be along the lines of your last one, except for a salary increase.

Amount to — to total, to mean, to result in — составлять сумму, равняться, быть равным, равнозначащим.

Although at first the proposals seemed attractive, in fact they amounted to very little.

And so on — and other similar details; etc. — и так далее.

I don’t know him very well, although we’ve shared the same office and so on for two years.

Argue against — to oppose with logic — полемизировать.

The Research and Development Manager argued strongly against reducing his department’s annual budget.

Arise from — to originate from, to be due, to be caused by — происходить, проистекать.

Misunderstandings often arise from language problems.

Arrange for — to fix or make practical plans for something to happen or to be done — подготавливать, организовывать.

Let’s arrange for a meeting now. How about Friday, nine o’clock, your office?

As far as it goes — within certain limited incomplete or imperfect bounds — что касается (чего-либо), что до (чего-либо).

Your argument seems logical, as far as it goes, but to be honest it doesn’t tackle the real issues here.

As long as — if the situation exists that, provided that, but only if — пока, до тех пор.

We aren’t going to make a profit as long as we continue employing too many people.

As a rule — usually (but not always) — как правило, обычно.

As a rule we deliver within 7 days of receipt of order.

As such — in or by its nature, considered alone, in itself — как таковой, по существу.

The company as such is in a strong financial position.

As to — about, regarding — в отношении

We have to weigh up the pros and cons — as to the risks and opportunities.

As usual — as always, in the normal or accustomed way — как всегда, как обычно.

An annual bonus will be paid as usual to employees who have performed well this year.

As we have seen — as has already been shown, proved or demonstrated — как мы видели, как мы поняли.

As we have seen from the trading figures, sales in all sectors are up, although profits remain marginal.

As well (as) — too, also, in addition to — так же как, а так же, заодно и.

As well as being the best on the market, our products are also reasonably priced.

As a whole — taken or considered all together; in aggregate — в целом, в общем, в общей массе.

The group as a whole approved the parent company’s proposal.

As yet — up to now, up to the time of speaking, so far — все еще, пока, до сих пор, на данный момент, к настоящему моменту.

As yet, we haven’t had time to consider your proposals.

At all — to any or to some, extent or degree; in any way — совсем, полностью.

If we can be of any help to you at all, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

At cross purposes — having a difference of opinions, wishes or objectives, leading to confusion — делать наперекор, говорить на разных языках.

This is a complex matter, so let’s set up our objectives before we start, to make sure we don’t end up at cross purposes.

At first — originally, in the first instance, at/in the beginning, to start with — вначале, сначала, на первых порах.

It made sense at first to include overseas trade in our budget figures.

At first sight (glance) — apparently at first, when seen for the first time — на первый взгляд, с первого взгляда.

At first sight the contract seemed normal.

At a glance — by looking quickly — с первого взгляда, сразу же.

I am not sure if these figures are genuine. Maybe even an expert couldn’t tell at a glance.

At least — to this minimum extent or amount or degree — по крайней мере, во всяком случае.

It’s only a small order, but at least it’s better than nothing.

At (the) most — up to a given maximum — самое большее, не больше чем.

Bankruptcy is certain, at most we can just delay it, but we can’t prevent it.

At once — immediately, very soon, right away — сразу, в тоже время, вместе с тем.

Can you send this fax at once please, it’s very urgent.

At the outset — at, from or shortly after some starting point — в начале.

The product was more successful than we had expected at the outset.

At the outside — as the highest estimate, at the most — самое большее, в крайнем случае.

How much does it cost? — At the outside I would guess around 50 dollars.

At random — without specific aim, unsystematic — наугад, наобум, наудачу.

The market researchers interviewed people at random in the street.

At will — as or when one pleases, without restriction or limit — по желанию, как угодно.

With a Gold Card you can travel almost at will.

Average out at — to calculate or be calculated as an average — вычислять среднюю величину.

Production time per unit averages out at two hours.

1. Fill in the blanks

1) Our boss doesn’t ______ interview clients after 5 o’clock, although he makes an exception for urgent cases.

2) _______ the financial press, our company’s share price has fallen due to poor trading results.

3) The confusion about the price ______ a typing error.

4) A successful managing director requires, ______ a thick skin.

5) This experiment ______ showing how efficient the market works.

6) Our flight arrived ______ can we bring forward our meeting?

7) We were told ______ that smoking isn’t allowed in the office.

8) It takes 20 minutes ______ from here to the office.

9) This suggestion would ______ complete disaster.

10) Now that the government has lifted its import restrictions our overseas competitors can operate in this country __________________.

11) Children need many things, but __________________ they need love.

12) The new team faced its first ______ when it played the national champions.

13) We are now going to see a short video ___________ is to give a general explanation of how our company works.

14) I hope you can ___________________ he money you spent!

15) Do you think he'll ________________ their proposal?

16) The legal system seems to take an ________________.

17) But the climate crisis is the rare but ________________ global, or strategic, conflict.

18) What evidence do we have that Adams is willing to sign an agreement ___________________?

19) You'd better leave early to _________________ traffic jams.

20) We've just got to get the software put in place and then it's ___________________.

21) Our company ___________________ a party ______ the holiday.

22) It doesn't say how things are connected, what causes what _____________________.

23) His own remarks ______ his qualifications for the office, but he probably will be elected anyway.

24) I cannot accept your manuscript ________________.. It needs revisions.

25) ____________________, this law is a good one. It should set stiffer penalties, however.

26) I will cooperate with you _____________. I am notified on time.

27) The production manager can’t be relied on any longer. _________________, every order is behind schedule.

28) We have some question __________ how the accident happened.

29) _______________, the girl forgot to bring her book to class.

30) The population _____________________ is getting healthier.

31) It's easy to export snapshots _____________________ HDTV video clips.

32) _____________________, our secretary has not talked about her plans to leave the company.

33) The two men are always ____________________. They cannot agree about anything.

34) I am not ________________ happy with my new computer.

35) _____________, his guess was that the whole trouble between the two men resulted from personalities that did not agree.

36) _______________ we chose the red one. Later we switched to the blue one.

37) The members of the team were chosen _____________ from among the regular players.

38) _____________ the chef uses a tiny bit of pepper.

39) The police came ________________ after we called them.

40) There weren't more than ten ___________________.

41) My annual holiday varies, but it ___________ ________________ five weeks a year.

2. Give the English for the Russian business idiom in brackets

1) The board (согласился с предложением) the finance director.

2) (В общем), you are just another brick in the wall.

3) The chairman, (с первого взгляда) seems just an ordinary person.

4) We are prepared to pay your asking price, (до тех пор, пока) you can deliver on time.

5) He’s a good manager (что касается его), an asset to the company, up to the point.

6) I think we are talking (на разных языках). So, it’s time we stopped discussing.

7) The production manager can’t be relied on any longer (Как мы видели) every order is behind schedule.

8) Not only are our products the best on the market, they are reasonably priced (так же).

9) The trade union representatives (полемизируют по поводу) company proposals to replace 60% of the workforce with machinery.

10) The government has rejected the (бескомпромиссный) approach in favor of a compromise solution.

11) Bad weather (объясняла) the long delay.

12) Steven joined the army because (прежде всего) he wanted to help his country.

13) Many words are pronounced (согласно) the spelling but some are not.

14) The perception of fairness is the (серьезное испытание) for democracy.

15) Defence was(крайне важна), and castles were designed with this end in view.

16) If you show up (заблаговременно), you will have to wait.

17) The new budget (нацелен на) providing extra support for the unemployed.

18) You’ve been telling us about your company’s plans without saying why; could you explain (цель деятельности).

19) Democracy (допускает) many differences of opinion.

20) I doubt that this business will ever (будет равнозначным) anything really profitable.

21) They've rented a hall and lined up the speakers, so it's (все в полной готовности) for the rally.

22) I can't remember exactly what words he used but it was something (что-то вроде того).

23) I need some help getting ready for dinner, setting the table, (и так далее).

24) Additional expenses (произошли из-за)your delay.

25) Who can (организовать) a meeting with experts for our company.

26) You are new to this job, and (по существу), I will have to train you.

27) Your plan is fine (Что касается). It doesn't seem to take care of everything, though.

28) (Как правило), things tend to get less busy after supper time.

29) The players were put into groups (соответственно) their ability.

30) Now I'm going to show you how business (обычно) will affect this.

31) I'm afraid I have nothing (совсем) to say.

32) (В целом), the relocation seems to have been beneficial.

33) We haven't needed extra staff (пока, на данный момент), but we may in the future.

34) There weren't so many people at the concert — 40 (самое большее).

35) There was a little trouble (на первых порах), but things soon were quiet.

36) There were (по крайней мере) 60,000 people in the stadium.

37) She sent these letters to several receivers (сразу).

38) (Вначале) of the meeting there were problems between some members of the group.

39) Sometimes I pay, sometimes he pays — it seems (мы в расчете).

40) Colds do not "last for weeks" — they last for three to ten days (от силы).

41) Contestants were chosen (на удачу) from the studio audience.

42) The little boy was able to do what he wanted (по желанию).

3. Paraphrase

1) By chance

2) At any time

3) At the beginning

4) Not more or probably less

5) At the same time

6) Until now

7) In addition to

8) In the true or exact meaning of the word or phrase

9) Without restriction or limit

10) Explain

11) Most importantly

12) Beforehand

13) Rigorous or crucial appraisal

14) Decide on (doing) something

15) on the whole; generally

16) Plan to

17) The objective of the activity

18) Urgent or necessary

19) Result in

20) Take into consideration

21) Everything is ready for proceeding

22) By following this method

23) Oppose with logic

24) And other similar details

25) Be caused by

26) Prepare or plan for

27) Usually, but not always

28) As much as something does, covers, or accomplishes

29) But only if

30) Regarding

31) In itself

32) As has already been proved

33) In aggregate

34) To any or some degree

35) Having a difference of opinions

36) At the beginning

37) When seen for the first time

38) Up to a given maximum

39) Be calculated as an average

40) To this minimum degree

41) At the most

4. Underline the most suitable preposition in each of the expressions

1) At/on the outset

2) At/from a glance

3) Average from/out at

4) Amount at/to

5) Allow for/in

6) Aim to/at

7) Account on/for

8) According with/to

9) In/at the outside

10) In/at random

11) Amount to/at

12) Argue to/against

13) With/at first sight

14) Average out of/at

15) In/at random

16) On/at the outset

17) At/in most

18) On/at cross purposes

19) Arise from/out of

5. Translate from Russian into English

1) Новая система в целом очень хороша.

2) В твоем проекте все идет согласно плану?

3) Мой друг работает в успешной компании и я надеюсь устроиться в такую же.

4) Трудолюбие, талант и страстное желание — моменты первостепенной важности для карьерного роста.

5) Сейчас, когда мы определились с основными позициями, все будет работать нормально.

6) Непонимание часто возникает из-за различных точек зрения.

7) В магазинах нет вегетарианской пищи, как таковой.

8) До сих пор мы не нуждались в дополнительном штате.

9) Работа займет приблизительно 10 дней самое большее.

10) Политика компании нацелена на увеличение прибыли.

11) Денежный вопрос стал серьезным испытанием для их отношений.

12) Он любил охоту, бег на лыжах, но больше всего он любил свою семью.

13) Чем можно объяснить банкротство компании?

14) Я уверен, что мы завершим наш проект раньше графика.

15) Родители всегда расходятся во мнениях по поводу воспитания детей.

16) Хотя она очень осторожна с деньгами, ее сбережения не составляют большой суммы.

17) Цель этого мероприятия заключается в том, чтобы повысить надежность существующих данных в интересах нашей компании.

18) Только все или ничего. Если я не могу принять полноценного участия в собрании, то я совсем не приду.

19) Учитывая мою молодость и неопытность, Босс на первый раз простил мою оплошность.

20) Как правило, мужчины носят фраки на официальных приемах.

21) В наши обязанности входили отчеты о проделанной работе, планы работы и т. д.

22) Существуют новые научные открытия, которые полемизируют с более ранними концепциями.

23) В конце каждого месяца для сотрудников организуются поездки за город.

24) Пока еще нет решения относительно того, когда мы начнем работу.

25) Тебе не нужно сильно заботиться о девочках. Что касается Мэри — она всегда заботится о себе, а Сьюзен всегда была самостоятельной.

26) Можешь взять мою машину, если пообещаешь, что будешь очень осторожен.

27) Возьмите с собой, пожалуйста, костюм для плавания, а также полотенце.

28) Как обычно он ошибся со временем и мы опоздали на первую часть концерта.

29) Наши конкуренты, как мы уже поняли из опыта, всегда готовы снизить цены для того, чтобы заполучить большую долю на рынке.

30) Выборы — это возможность для населения в целом высказать свое отношение к правительству.

31) Две группы аналитиков работали в разных направлениях во время кризиса.

32) Его аргумент был совсем не убедительным.

33) Результаты не были многообещающими, но по крайней мере они были корректными.

34) Сначала работа показалась Бобу очень интересной, но вскоре он разочаровался.

35) На первый взгляд тест показался легким, но в нем было много мудреных вопросов.

36) Самое большее через неделю он поправится.

37) Там сразу два направления. Какое из них мне выбрать?

38) Начиная свою речь, я хочу быть предельно откровенной.

39) Налоги должны составить примерно пятую часть его дохода.

40) Если хотите, чтобы компания успешно работала, не выбирайте сотрудников наудачу.

41) Детям позволили приходить и уходить по желанию.

B is for

Back against the wall — in a very difficult position, with few or no choices — припереть к стене, прижать к стенке.

The minister had survived many political changes, many threats to his position. In fact, when he had his back against the wall, he was at his most charming and dangerous.

Back and forth (backwards and forwards) — movement from one position to another, before returning to the first position again, usually again and again, regularly — взад и вперед.

Letters had been passing back and forth between the two companies for weeks before a meeting could be set up.

Back down — to show a marked change of attitude or position, from being in confrontation to being passive, neutral or accepting, to withdraw — отступать, уступать, отказываться.

After days of hard negotiating, both sides backed down sufficiently in their demands to make agreement possible.

Back out (of) — to fail to carry out (or to withdraw from) some promise, arrangement, agreement or obligation — уклоняться, отступать от чего-либо.

You can rely on her for sure. Once she agrees to do something, she never backs out of it.

(The) Ball is in (your) court — It’s up to (you) to take action, the next step is for (you) to take, (we) await your next move — теперь твоя очередь действовать; теперь все зависит от тебя.

We’ve made them a good offer — now the ball’s in their court.

(The) Bare bones (bare outline) — a short description, a few words giving only the most important facts — костяк, основное, самое главное.

At this stage, I’m going to describe the process in bare outline only. My colleague will explain it in detail later.

He will need time… to present the bare bones of the argument.

Base on — to use as a basis, ground, or system of reasoning — основываться на.

The scientist’s calculations were based on the results of his experiments.

Be against (to be for, to be in favor of) — to oppose, to be opposed or contrary to — возражать (быть за).

This company is against joint venture schemes because experience shows that these so often go wrong.

Be beside the point — to have no connection with what is being discussed, to be irrelevant — быть неважным, несвязанным.

The only important question is whether we go ahead with the project or not, anything else is beside the point.

Be exact — to be more precise, to define exactly or accurately — быть точным.

The calculations were exact to the nearest millimeter.

Be in the dark — to not know, to be without information — быть в неведении, в неизвестности.

It’s no use asking me about the company’s takeover plans — I’m as much in the dark as you are.

Be in the picture — to know, to have information — быть в курсе дела.

Let’s go over those points again, to make sure you’re completely in the picture, before we go any further.

Be in line with — to be in conformity or agreement with — точно следовать (идеям, принципам).

Your ideas are very interesting especially as they’re very much in line with our own.

Be in/out of touch with — to be in contract by the spoken or written word, to get in touch — to make contract, to keep or stay in touch — to continue contract, to lose touch — to lose contract, out of touch — not in contract — находиться в контакте с …; быть в курсе чего-л./ не находиться в контакте с …; не быть в курсе чего-л.

Although they don’t see each other very often, they are in constant touch by letter or phone.

Be (go) out of action — to not work or operate, to fail to function or to stop working/operating/functioning — не работать, быть выведенным из строя.

The computer is out of action at the moment, due to an electrical fault.

Be (fall) short of — to be less than needed, wanted or expected, to lack something, to not be enough — испытывать недостаток в чем-либо, нуждаться в чем-либо; не хватать.

The test results are interesting as far as they go, but they fall far short of proving the safety of this product.

Be (run, come) up against — to be, or arrive, at a position where positive progress or forward movement is, or may be, blocked — стоять перед задачей, проблемой, встретить трудности.

Profits have fallen because the company is up against stronger competition than expected.

Bear fruit — to produce the result — приносить плоды, давать результаты.

After 10 years’ hard work, his research finally bear fruit.

Begin with — at first, first of all, at the beginning — начинать с, во-первых.

To begin with, the business grew slowly, but after several years it expanded rapidly.

Behind time/schedule — Be late — не вовремя, неаккуратно, с опозданием.

The meeting is running behind schedule and we have to finish on time.

Better safe than sorry — It’s better to be too careful than to take risks — береженого бог бережет.

Don't be afraid to have this checked by a doctor — better (to be) safe than sorry!

Bit by bit — in small pieces or stages, gradually — постепенно, понемногу, мало-помалу; по частям.

Although the sales target seems a long way off at the moment, we seem to be getting there bit by bit.

Break down — fail, collapse, stop — обрывать(ся), разрушать(ся), разрывать(ся).

The first 2 negotiations were unsuccessful and the third broke down after only a few hours.

Break the ice — do or say something to ease tensions between people, to start to create a more sociable, relaxed atmosphere, usually on first meeting — разбить, сломать лед, устранить натянутость (в отношениях между кем-л.); сделать первый шаг.

A new manager’s first task is to break the ice with staff and create a new team dynamic.

Break the new ground — enter a new area of discovery or knowledge, be a pioneer — найти новый путь; сказать новое слово; начать новое дело; быть новатором, пионером; начать новую страницу.

The recent agreement between the companies has broken new ground in fruitful relation.

Break off — end suddenly — прекращать, порывать.

The breaking off of diplomatic relations between two countries may signal the start of warfare.

Break through — make sudden, positive progress by pushing through a seen or unseen barrier or obstacle — прорваться, пробиться, добиться успеха.

The discovery of the petrol engine was a break through in the history of transport.

Bring about — cause, make something happen, give rise to — осуществлять, вызывать, влечь за собой.

Careful planning of objectives, strategy and tactics are necessary to bring about a successful negotiation.

By the same token — for the same reason; as a logical extension of the same argument — к тому же, кроме того; лишнее доказательство того, что; справедливо и то, что.

Because of falling profits, research and development costs must be drastically reduced. By the same token, there are to no salary increases.

By the way — changing the subject, incidentally, in passing — кстати, между прочим, к слову сказать.

Really? That’s interesting. By the way, did you hear the latest news about our competitors.

By trial and error — finding the right method or solution by the primitive process of making changes in measurements or calculations until finally there are no errors — методом проб и ошибок.

After a good deal of trial and error we found the exact proportions required for the mixture.

1. Fill in the blanks

1) The company doesn’t have money to waste on testing ______— you must be more systematic in your approach.

2) He is a tough professional negotiator who usually gets what he wants, but ______ the isn’t a popular man.

3) Her remarks were ________.

4) The discovery of more efficient methods _______ major changes on the production line.

5) There isn’t time to put you in the picture completely, so I’ll just give you _______.

6) Few people these days are ______ bringing back the old punishment by death.

7) Every stage of the process is checked three times, ______.

8) We have done our best. Now ______.

9) He was apologizing ______.

10) With last fall’s flu season approaching, the country was ______ vaccine.

11) Many of these schools find themselves with their ____________________, and unless they get more funding, they'll have to fire some teachers.

12) Local authorities ____________________on their plans to demolish the building.

13) Sam ____________________ the agreement at the last second.

14) I _______________ my opinion ______ my own seasoned judgment.

15) They had many children–seven, _________.

16) We are still ______________ as to our competitors intentions.

17) I am afraid this scheme is totally ______________ with current developments in the electronics industry.

18) Do you know about the new import legislation in this country. Yes, thank you I am fully ______.

19) Behavior at school parties must ____________________ school rules.

20) When I broke my leg I ____________________ for the entire football season.

21) The hotel was awful! ______ our room was far too small.

22) I just wanted to find out what I __________.

23) I hope your new plan ______________.

24) The parents ________________ when they heard the bad news.

25) We're sorry for being a little __________________ with our takeoff, ladies and gentlemen. We should be departing shortly.

26) I still don't know just how all this new software works, but I suppose I'll find out _____________.

27) Sally ______________ her engagement to John _________.

28) Andy likes to tell a joke to _____________________ — to help everybody relax.

29) We're ________________ in television comedy. You'll never have seen anything like this before.

30) J ________________________, could you please bring your computer tomorrow?

31) It was difficult at first to _____________________ her quiet manner.

32) University athletes are happy to be in the news, but ___________________________, they must not be distracted from their studies.

2.Give the English for the Russian business idiom in brackets

1) (Между прочим), did she ever mention his name?

2) Your presentation wasn’t bad, but not as successful as it could have been. You never really (переломишь ситуацию).

3) Council decided (прекратить) relations with the Russian trade unions.

4) If you (откажетесь) your contract, you will have to pay money to the firm.

5) At this meeting, We’d like to give your our proposals (в общих очертаниях).

6) Although the manager’s proposals were sound, they were not (в унисон с) company policy.

7) Can you comment on the rumors that your company is in trouble? I’m afraid I’m not (в курсе). I don’t work here, I’m just visiting.

8) At first you may find the process difficult to understand, but if you examine it (постепенно) you will see it’s not really so complex.

9) Government policy is (основывается на) a balance between the freedom of the individual and the public good.

10) The discussion between two companies is sure to (принесет результат).

11) I've told him he can have his job back if he apologizes. (Теперь дело за ним).

12) Our local team has its («прижата к стене») and must win tonight's game.

13) The argument went (то и дело) before the judge made a decision.

14) Bill said he could beat Ted, but when Ted put up his fists Bill (отступил).

15) We must keep our competitors (в неведении) about our plans for as long as possible; the element of surprise is important.

16) Most members of the city council (за) building the new stadium.

17) What you are saying is (не имеет отношения к делу). We are not talking about salary now.

18) He came a long way–from Nome, Alaska, (если быть точным) — to attend the wedding.

19) (Поддерживай связь) and if the chance comes up, we can do business some time in the future.

20) The government (стояло перед проблемой) strong opposition when it tried to increase taxes.

21) The photocopier (не работает) today.

22) Unfortunately, his brilliant speech (не хватало) truth, as usual.

23) Go ahead and begin the meal without us, we're running a little (с опозданием).

24) (Во-первых), I don't have enough money to take a trip to Europe this summer.

25) It is (лучше поберечься) and I always bring my umbrella to work when it is a cloudy day.

26) If the central heating (выйдет из строя) again, I will refuse to pay the repair bill.

27) The invention of the internal-combustion engine (вызвал) a huge shift in people's mobility.

28) So are scientists (являются новаторами) in their quest to discover what causes the disease?

29) He's a very talented young actor who's just ready to (добиться успеха).

30) The only way to solve this problem is (методом проб и ошибок).

31) I don't think that prices will go up but, (справедливо и то), I don't see them going down either.

3. Paraphrase

1) Achieve success, make a discovery.

2) Do something that has not been done before.

3) Never meet the deadline.

4) Cause to happen.

5) Moreover and for the same or a similar reason.

6) End a relationship, association.

7) Gradually, little by little.

8) To and fro.

9) Withdraw an earlier claim.

10) A short description

11) In a very difficult position

12) Show a marked change of attitude

13) Use as a ground

14) Withdraw from

15) It’s up to you to take action

16) Be irrelevant

17) Be in agreement with

18) Be more precise

19) Be without information

20) Have information

21) Be in contact

22) Lack something

23) Fail to function

24) Have a lot of problems

25) Produce the result

26) First of all

27) It’s better not to risk

28) Collapse

29) Cause

30) Do something to ease tensions

31) End suddenly

32) Incidentally

33) In an empirical manner

4. Underline the most suitable preposition in each of the expressions

1) By/on the same token

2) Begin with/from

3) Be short of/out of

4) Be in/on line with

5) Be at/in the picture

6) Be over/beside the point

7) Ball is at/in your court

8) Back against/in the wall

9) With/by trial and error

10) Be at/in the dark

5. Translate from Russian into English

1) Сейчас, когда женщины совершили такой прорыв на поприще медицины, можно ожидать большего числа женщин-докторов.

2) Никто не хочет начинать. Ну что ж, придется мне.

3) Несколько наград было присуждено коммерческим предприятиям, открывшим новые пути в развитии сетевых технологий.

4) Не бойся провериться у врача — береженого бог бережет.

5) Между прочим, она когда-нибудь упоминала его имя?

6) Многие лекарства были найдены с помощью метода проб и ошибок.

7) Комитет отклонил его предложение, потому что оно шло вразрез с политической платформой партии.

8) Расскажи мне, пожалуйста, в чем дело, потому что я еще не в курсе.

9) Он не знал о последних событиях.

10) Ее замечания были не по существу.

11) Она ездила в Китай взад и вперед, но так и не смогла привыкнуть к восточной культуре.

12) Он был прижат к стенке из-за долгов и на сегодняшний день не видел выхода из положения.

13) Не ходи вокруг да около, разъясни основное.

14) Не в его правилах отступать и таким образом терять лицо.

15) Наш партнер уклонился от сделки за день до подписания контракта.

16) Мы предоставили менеджеру целый список жалоб, теперь дело за ним.

17) Мы сделали отчет основываясь на предоставленных данных.

18) Ложь всегда противоречила моим принципам.

19) Сын часто звонит, чтобы поддерживать связь с семьей.

20) Светофор временно не работал, хотя о поломке никто не проинформировал.

21) Строители стояли перед многочисленными проблемами, когда началось строительство шоссе.

22) Хотя компания считалась успешной, всегда не хватало денег, чтобы достойно оплачивать работу сотрудников.

23) Не смотря на то, что у нас были многообещающие идеи, ни одна не принесла плоды.

24) Он опоздал на репетицию на целый час.

25) Я всегда заключаю с новыми работниками сначала контракт на небольшой срок, чтобы посмотреть, на что они годны.

26) Все планы рухнули внезапно из-за кризиса.

27) Постепенно воспоминания прошлого стали возвращаться к нему.

28) Некоторые говорят, что он очень обаятельный, но таким же образом других отталкивают его манеры.

29) Она внезапно замолчала в середине предложения и задумалась — к чему все эти изменения?

30) Новый менеджер решил, что пришло самое время для внесения изменений.

C is for

Carry out — fulfill, perform, complete, finish successfully — осуществлять; приводить в исполнение, доводить до конца.

The oil company is carrying out geological surveys in the area before drilling begins.

Change one’s mind — change a decision or opinion — передумать, изменить решение.

At first, she didn’t like her new colleague at all, but after a while she changed her mind.

Check over — look at carefully and efficiently in order to find out if there are any problems or mistakes — проверять, сверять, выверять.

Letters should be checked over for mistakes before being sent.

Come to the point — arrive directly at the focus, or most important part, of a speaking or writing activity — дойти до сути дела, до главного, решающего момента.

I’m afraid I can’t follow your reasoning: you’ve been speaking for twenty minutes without coming to the point.

Come (run, or be) up against — be or arrive, at a position where positive progress or forward movement is, or may be, blocked — сталкиваться, встречаться с проблемами.

The government ran up against strong opposition when it tired to increase taxes.

Come up with — create, devise, produce, find — поравняться с (кем-л.), догнать (кого-л.), предлагать (план, проект).

This artwork is rubbish! Can’t you come up with anything better than that?

Common ground — shared area of agreement or understanding, an overlap of aims or interests — общее дело, общие интересы; общий язык, взаимопонимание.

There was enough common ground between the two teams of researchers to enable them to create an information pool.

Common sense — natural intelligence and understanding — здравый смысл.

Common sense suggests that regular exercise improves the quality of our daily lives, and our performance.

Compete against — try to beat or to oppose in competition — состязаться, конкурировать.

Recent increases in taxation mean that companies are competing as much against the government as against each other.

Compromise (with, over) — reach agreement by modifying or reducing one’s stated objectives — идти на компромисс.

After lengthy negotiations, contract terms were finally agreed when the two companies compromised with each other over prices and delivery schedules.

Consist of — be made (up) of, be composed of, compromise — состоять из.

Water consists of two parts of hydrogen to one part of oxygen.

Cope (with) — manage a problem, deal successfully with a difficulty — справляться.

The new product was so successful that production was barely able to cope with demand.

Credibility gap — difference or distance between what one is able, or willing, to believe and what one is asked to believe, the extent of disbelief — кризис доверия.

You say that you took $10 from the pretty cash box but $15 is missing. There is a credibility gap here, I’m afraid.

Crystal clear — clear beyond any doubt, without possibility of misunderstanding — понятный, ясный.

The government statement made it crystal clear that public spending had to be reduced.

Cut corners — follow a quick but risky route to an objective, especially by not performing all the usual stages of some process — идти напролом, действовать незаконно.

In this company we don’t cut corners, we produce a high-quality, reliable product.

Cut one’s losses — end or withdraw from a bad situation which can only get worse — бросить невыгодное дело; ≈ выйти из игры.

This product has almost outlived its lifespan — we should cut our losses and take it off the market at once.

1. Fill in the blanks

1) The gunmen ______ their threat and shot the man.

2) She always ______ the right answer.

3) Whether any _______ can be found that will accommodate these conflicting viewpoints remains to be seen.

4) Is the government prepared ______ the workers over their pay demand?

5) The beauty of this picture _______ in its balance ____ colours.

6) A failure to meet the demands of society, such as _______ problems and social relationships: usually reflected in emotional instability.

7) It makes everything as_______, I see the answers to all my questions.

8) You cannot ______ when you are dealing with public safety.

9) As your investment brokers, we have to advise you to consider ______ and selling your shares now.

10) He’s a brilliant economist, but he ________ too many ________.

11) My friend _____________________ and said that he would not go to the movie tonight.

12) There is no doubt that the court’s decision is a victory for _____________________.

13) He _____________________ the old car to see if it was worth buying.

14) His speech was interesting but he never really ________ _____________.

15) The project ____________________________ a lot of criticism.

16) The ___________ is the result of a deliberate policy of artificial manipulation of official news.

17) Please stop talking. I do not wish to _____________ ________ the audience when I lecture.

2. Give the English for the Russian business idiom in brackets

1) In this company, we are not a bunch of theorists and academics, we take a (здравый) approach to business.

2) The working relationship between the two managers broke down when they failed (пойти на компромисс) shared use of office staff.

3) The realization of his (общего дела) had produced a new relationship between them.

4) I am going to (сказать прямо); the company isn’t satisfied with your performance — you are dismissed.

5) I wish he could afford (выполнить) his plan.

6) Airline ground crews give all aircraft a (тщательный осмотр) before take off.

7) We have enough problems already, and now there are staff shortages to (справиться).

8) Recent losses created (кризис доверия) between the company and its shareholders.

9) Every time I explain myself (понятным) fashion, there is always someone who misunderstands.

10) Profits have fallen because the company (столкнулась с) stronger competition than expected.

11) It was hard to be heard. I was (состязался) the noise of construction.

12) I used to hate Chicago, but as the years passed I gradually (изменил мнение) and now I actually love living here.

13) She (придумала) a great proposal for the new advertising campaign.

14) A company's assets can (состоять из) cash, investments, buildings, machinery, specialist knowledge or copyright material such as music or computer software.

15) He's always finding ways to (действовать незаконно), that's why his work leaves a lot to be desired.

16) When a project is failing, you've got to learn to (выйти из игры) and move on.

3. Paraphrase

1) Bring to completion; accomplish.

2) Alter one's decision.

3) Be faced with.

4) Sound practical sense.

5) Oppose, or fight.

6) Meet someone's demands.

7) Do something in the easiest or shortest way.

8) Give up spending time, money, or energy.

9) Follow a quick but risky route

10) Without possibility of misunderstanding

11) Inspect, test

12) Arrive directly at the most important part

13) Bring to terms

14) Create, devise

15) Shared interests, beliefs, or ideas

16) Lack of trustworthiness

17) Be composed of

4. Underline the most suitable preposition in each of the expressions

1) Cope with/to

2) Carry out/with

3) Check over/out

4) Come with/to the point

5) Come with/up against

6) Come in/up with

7) Compromise to/with

8) Consist from/of

9) Cut (down) corners

10) Change (up) one’s mind

5. Translate from Russian into English

1) У всех нас есть обязанности и дела, которые мы должны исполнять.

2) Нам надо еще раз внимательно выверить книгу, прежде чем отсылать ее в типографию.

3) Если тебе придет что-нибудь в голову, скажи мне.

4) Сознание общего дела как-то по-новому связало их.

5) С такой горой работы я за выходные не справлюсь.

6) Теперь эта идея ясна для меня как день.

7) Хотите сотрудничать со мной — прекрасно. Но если вы пойдете напролом, мне придется сделать то же.

8) Мой друг поменял свое решение и сказал, что не пойдет сегодня вечером в кино.

9) К счастью, здравый смысл восторжествовал в конце переговоров.

10) Мы должны идти на компромисс с нашими сотрудниками?

11) Мы будем обсуждать этот вопрос очень долго, если сейчас не перейдем к сути.

12) Счастье состоит не из того, чем ты владеешь.

13) Если у тебя возникнут проблемы — всегда обращайся — я тебе помогу.

14) Мы пытаемся наладить расписание поездов, но мы не в состоянии конкурировать с погодой.

15) Потребуется много времени, чтобы разрешить противоречия, если это вообще возможно в сложившейся ситуации.

16) Давай выйдем из игры и продадим наш бизнес до того как цены упадут еще ниже.

D is for

Dead end — a path going nowhere, a direction or course from which there is no exit or which results in no progress — тупик, безвыходное положение, безвыходная ситуация.

After five years without promotion, she felt she was in a dead-end job.

Do business with — trade or negotiate with a view to making money — иметь общий бизнес с кем-либо.

We would like to do business with you, but if you aren’t able to play ball just a little on your pricing policy, it really isn’t worth our while.

Do/make a deal with — reach a business or commercial agreement — уславливаться о цене, условиях.

I called the real estate agents about that house we saw last week but their clients already made a deal with someone else, so we’re too late I’m afraid.

Drawback — a disadvantage — недостаток, отрицательная сторона.

Your suggestion has only one serious drawback, that is, it’s likely to reduce profit margins.

Draw up — arrange, prepare, draft or compose a written document — составлять (текст завещания, контракта, законопроекта).

Good, so, as you agree the terms, let’s draw up your letter of employment now.

Dry (dummy) run — an experiment or trial of a machine or project under realistic (but not real) conditions — репетиция, прогон, испытание.

Before making a presentation, it’s a good idea to do a dummy run by recording yourself on video or cassette and checking the result.

Dud — not performing the required or expected function, ineffective in result or effect — бесполезный; негодный, неисправный.

How can we be expected to carry out our jobs with the dud equipment you gave us?

1. Fill in the blanks

1) The research program had looked promising, but all the tests led to ______.

2) Thank you for your time. We hope we can look forward to ______ you in the future.

3) She is a successful broker and ______ for a lot of clients.

4) That seems an excellent idea, I can’t see any _____.

5) They ________ a six-step plan.

6) Before launching a market survey, the researchers carried out several _______ to test the reaction to their questionnaire.

7) We had high expectations of your assistant, but it seems he has turned out to be _____ on the job.

2. Give the English for the Russian business idiom in brackets

1) He hadn’t produced any art-work for some years and felt that he had come to a creative (тупику).

2) I am not used to being lied to by those I (сотрудничаю).

3) Be sure you look at the small print if you (заключаешь сделки с) him.

4) It is possible that the advantages outweigh (недостатки).

5) The first interview would be (репетиция) for her other two interviews.

6) I’ve (составил) a list of candidates that I’d like to interview.

7) No one of the books she has written has been (негодной).

3. Paraphrase

1) Trade or negotiate with a view to making money.

2) A path going nowhere.

3) Reach a business or commercial agreement.

4) Formulate and write out in appropriate form.

5) Disadvantage.

6) A trial or practice.

7) Failing in its purpose or function.

4. Underline the most suitable preposition in each of the expressions

1) Do business with/to

2) Do a deal to/with

3) Draw out/up a contract

4) Carry out/away a dry run

5. Translate from Russian into English

1) Не имей дел с подозрительными партнерами.

2) Если он откажется заключать выгодные сделки с нашей компанией, то поступит безрассудно.

3) С самого начала наш проект был обречен.

4) В каждой работе можно найти недостаток, только важно его вовремя исправить.

5) Директор компании наконец определил четкие правила для сотрудников.

6) Это сообщение оказалось уткой.

7) У нас только один шанс, и мы не можем рисковать. Поэтому давайте отрепетируем, чтобы каждый понимал, что он должен делать.

E is for

Either way — either single or inevitable result whatever happens or is done (or whether it is true or not) — в любом случае так или иначе.

Whether we buy new equipment or employ new staff, either way we’re spending money.

End product — final result, after completion of some process or a series of actions — конечный продукт, результат, готовый продукт.

Careful preparation of a presentation will lead to a more effective end product.

Every other/second — in a sequence, with the focus on the second, fourth, sixth and so on — каждый второй, третий, четвертый и т. д.

Your company’s products are very popular, it seems as if every third person in the country has one.

Exception to the rule — someone or something which differs from the usual, the normal or some principle, rule or theory — исключение из правил.

Bankers will confirm that most customers are honest and repay their loans on time, put differently, the relatively few fraudsters and bad payers are the exceptions that prove the rule.

Exception proves the rule — something which differs from the usual, the normal, or some principle, rule or theory and yet, by the same token, reinforces what is usual — исключение подтверждает правило, нет правил без исключения.

Tests have shown that this product lasts at least three times longer than other similar products, so it is quite an exception to the rule.

1. Fill in the blanks

1) ________, these updates will increase your system s stability and overall productivity.

2) The ________ of the negotiations was a contract between the two companies.

3) Quality control is carried out by testing ________ unit.

4) Tests have shown that this product lasts at least three times longer than other similar products, so it’s quite ______ ______________.

5) All of the salespeople at the office are very talkative and outgoing but one person is the ___________________________________. He is very quiet and shy.

2. Give the English for the Russian business idiom in brackets

1) It is (результат) of long exhaustive research and development.

2) (Так или иначе), you can still make a claim.

3) The contest is held (каждый второй год).

4) Most company directors are middle-aged men, but this 28-year-old woman is (исключение из правил).

3. Paraphrase

1) In the one case or the other.

2) Each alternate.

3) The final result or outcome of a process.

4) Something that differs from the usual.

4. Translate from Russian into English

1) Нашего босса интересует только конечный результат, а не те усилия, которые мы вкладываем.

2) В любом случае компания выиграет.

3) Каждый третий сотрудник компании получил премию по результатам года.

4) Правила нашей компании не предусматривают длительный отпуск, но Ваша ситуация является исключением из правил.

F is for

Face up to — to accept something difficult or unpleasant and confront it — быть готовым встретить (что-л.), встретится лицом к лицу.

Retirement is something we all have to face up to sooner or later.

Fact of the matter is — the truth is, the most important thing is — суть дела.

You keep telling us that production is delayed because of equipment breakdown, when the fact of the matter, as everyone knows, is that the real reason is industrial action.

Facts speak for themselves — the known facts of a situation clearly show the answers to any questions about them — факты говорят сами за себя.

The company’s financial records told the whole story. We could seat at a glance that large sums were not accounted for. The facts spoke for themselves — this was a case of fraud.

First and foremost — firstly and most important — прежде всего, в первую очередь, во-первых.

At the meeting we have several matters to consider. First and foremost is to decide on a replacement for the production manager, who sadly died last week.

First impression — first feelings, or initial reaction, caused as a result of a new experience or situation — первое впечатление.

As soon as we met, I thought, “This man has a dishonest face”. That first impression was soon to be proved current.

First step — the first stage, or part of some process or series of actions — первый шаг, первая попытка.

We hope that this discussion will bear fruit and so be the first step towards greater cooperation between us.

Focus on — concentrate on, to direct one hundred per cent attention to — концентрировать внимание на, сосредоточиваться на.

Next, let’s focus on production figures. As you can see from the graph, these have fluctuated over the last three months.

For (and) against — in agreement with and contrary to — за и против.

The government has carefully considered all arguments both for and against the new airport.

Forge ahead — make very good or rapid progress against all resistance, to develop or improve quickly — медленно и равномерно продвигаться вперед.

We’re forging ahead with the construction scheme, the first two stages were completed ahead of schedule.

For sale — on the market and available, or open, to offers to buy — на продажу.

We’re looking for new offices in the city centre. Can you look into it for us and let us know what’s for sale or for rent at the moment.

For sure — this is certain, there is no doubt — обязательно, непременно.

The economic crisis shows no sign of improving and we’re deep in the red at the bank. If business improves and the bank extends our overdraft, we’ll keep going, maybe. If not, we’ll go bankrupt for sure.

For the most part — mainly, generally, largely, in the majority of cases or instances, on the whole — главным образом; большей частью; в основном; в целом.

That’s an interesting idea. For the most part I agree with you, but I have my doubts about a couple of points.

For the time being — temporarily, for the moment — в данное