Derek Callan . Professional English

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26.08.2015 - Derek Callan

Number 62: Coincide

Hello everybody!

Have a look at the following word:

Coincide (koh-in-sahyd) or /ˌkowənˈsaɪd/ (verb)

Definition 1:

to happen at the same time as something else

Example sentences:

The new product launch coincides with the company’s 100-year anniversary.

Unfortunately, the strike coincided with the busiest period of the year.

I hope you like this word and can practice using it soon!

All the best,
Derek

Hello everybody!

I hope all is well and that you have been able to enjoy some nice weather recently.

Question: Do you say “very important” a lot when talking about very important business issues?

Why not try out some new words and expand your vocabulary?

Alternatives to very important:

Essential [uh-sen-shuh l]

It is essential that we deliver the best possible service to all of our customers.

Crucial [kroo-shuh l]

The success of this campaign is crucial to our future plans.

Vital [vahyt-l]

The department leader played a vital role in the last project.

Hope you find these words useful and can try them out soon!

All the best,
Derek

21.05.2015 - Derek Callan

Number 60: Don't mention it

Hello everybody!

It’s been too long since my last post – things have been very busy indeed.

Anyway, let’s look at some alternatives to “you’re welcome.”

As most of you will know, when someone thanks you for something, the normal thing to say is “you’re welcome”.

But why not mix it up and try something new? Have a look at the following:

A: Thanks!
B: Don’t mention it.
A: Thank you!
B: My pleasure.
A: Thanks very much!
B: Anytime.
A: Thanks!
B: Not at all.
A: Thanks!
B: No worries.
A: Thank you!
B: No problem. 

All the best for now,

Derek

08.04.2015 - Derek Callan

Number 59: Verbs and prepositions 2

Hello everybody!

It's time to test your knowledge again.

Try out my new verbs and prepositions quiz!

Good luck!
[mtouchquiz 11]

All the best for now,

Derek

12.03.2015 - Derek Callan

Number 58: Demanding

Hello everybody!

Have a look at the following word:

Demanding (dih-man-ding) or [dɪˈmɑːndɪŋ]

Definition 1:

needing much time, attention, or effort

Example sentences:

I enjoy my job but it’s very demanding.
We have a very demanding schedule this week.

Definition 2:

expecting much time, attention, effort, etc., from other people : hard to satisfy

Example sentence:

Their boss is extremely demanding - he always makes them do a lot of overtime.

I hope you like this word and can practice using it soon!
All the best,
Derek