ESL ESL Business English & Professional Communication

Question 1

Which greeting is most appropriate for a formal business email in the US?

Accepted Answer

"Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],"

Answer

"Hey there!"

Answer

"What's up?"

Answer

"To whoever,"

Question 2

In a US business meeting, what does "to table a discussion" mean?

Accepted Answer

To postpone the discussion to a later time

Answer

To bring the discussion up for immediate debate

Answer

To write notes on a physical table

Answer

To disagree with all participants

Question 3

Which phrase is most appropriate when professionally declining a meeting invitation via email?

Accepted Answer

"Thank you for the invitation; unfortunately, I have a prior commitment."

Answer

"I can't come, sorry."

Answer

"No thanks."

Answer

"That doesn't work for me at all."

Question 4

What is a cover letter in a US job application?

Accepted Answer

A brief letter introducing yourself and your qualifications to an employer

Answer

The envelope that holds your resume

Answer

A list of professional references

Answer

A background check authorization form

Question 5

In business English, what does "follow up" typically mean?

Accepted Answer

To check in or take further action after an initial contact

Answer

To ignore a previous message or request

Answer

To cancel a scheduled meeting

Answer

To write a formal complaint

Question 6

Which phrase best expresses agreement in a formal business meeting?

Accepted Answer

"I couldn't agree more."

Answer

"Yeah, sure."

Answer

"Whatever you say."

Answer

"I guess that's fine."