The specific language of chairing a meeting
Shall we get started? I'd like to welcome everyone to today's meeting.
The purpose of today's meeting is to discuss... We have three items on the agenda.
Let's move on to the next point. I think we've covered that sufficiently.
What does everyone think? I'd like to hear from... Does anyone want to add anything?
I'm aware we're running short of time. Let's park that and come back to it.
To summarise what we've agreed... The next steps are... Thank you all for attending.
Language for participating
Interrupting politely
Sorry to interrupt, but...
Could I just add something here?
If I could come in at this point...
Disagreeing diplomatically
I take your point, but...
I'm not sure I agree entirely...
That's interesting — my view is...
See our corporate English training programmes for team-based meeting language training.
Frequently asked questions
In British and American business culture, interrupting with appropriate language is normal and expected. The key is using the right phrases.
Take notes in real time, focus on key words, and get comfortable asking for clarification: "So if I understand correctly..."