5 Essential Business English Idioms

How to Use Them in Emails.

When learning Business English, mastering grammar and vocabulary is important. Sounding natural and professional often comes down to using the correct expressions at the appropriate time. Idioms play a huge part in this. They help make your communication more engaging and enable you to better connect with colleagues and clients.

In this article, we’ll explore five essential business idioms you need to know, explain what they mean, and outline how to use them effectively in email communications.

1. Think Outside the Box

Meaning: To think creatively and find innovative solutions.
Why this matters: In business, creativity is highly valued. This idiom signals that you’re open to new ideas.

Email Examples:
“Your ideas really encouraged us to think outside the box for this campaign.”

"To stay ahead of the competition, we need to think outside the box and explore unconventional marketing strategies”

"We need to think outside the box to create an advertising campaign that really resonates with potential consumers.”

✅ Tip: Use this when brainstorming or praising creative thinking.

2. Get the Ball Rolling

Meaning: To start a project or process.
Why this matters: It shows initiative and leadership.

Email Examples:
“Let’s get the ball rolling on the new project by scheduling a kick-off meeting.”

"I’ve reached out to the first few prospects to get the ball rolling on lead generation."

"We’ll get the ball rolling with a short introduction to the new software tools."

✅ Tip: Perfect for motivating a team or initiating the next steps.

3. Touch Base

Meaning: To check in briefly or reconnect.
Why this matters: It’s a polite way to say you want to follow up without sounding pushy.

Email Examples:
“I wanted to touch base to confirm the details before we proceed.”

"I like to touch base with former clients every few months to maintain the relationship."

"I’ll touch base with the design team to make sure they’re on track for the deadline."

✅ Tip: Use this in follow-up emails or when scheduling quick updates.

4. Back to the Drawing Board

Meaning: To start over because the current plan didn’t work.
Why this matters: It shows flexibility and problem-solving skills.

Email Example:
“The client didn’t approve the design, so it’s back to the drawing board.”

"After the user feedback, it’s clear we need to go back to the drawing board and rethink the interface."

"The team agreed that the current solution isn’t viable, so it’s back to the drawing board."

✅ Tip: Use this when discussing revisions or brainstorming after a setback.

5. On the Same Page

Meaning: To agree or have the same understanding about something.
Why this matters: Alignment is crucial in business communication.

Email Example:
“Before we move forward, let’s make sure we’re on the same page.”

"Getting on the same page early helps avoid misunderstandings down the line."

"I had a quick call with the client to get on the same page about their expectations."

✅ Tip: Great for confirming agreement in meetings or emails.

Why Use Idioms in Business English?

Idioms really help make your English sound more natural and help you build rapport with colleagues and clients. But use them carefully! You should avoid overusing them or using them in very formal documents like contracts, legal documents and anything very formal.

Ready to Improve Your Business English?

If you’re looking to sound more confident and professional in English, I can help. My lessons focus on practical but effective communication, including idioms, cultural nuances, and email writing skills.

👉 Visit www.language-solutions.fr or send me a message to start improving your Business English today!