Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
Some Business English
Vocabulary
(Adapted from the original written by Prof. Dr Michael Riedl
Hochschule für angewandtes Management, Ismaning)
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
A
ability to work under pressure, ability to cope with pressure die Belastbarkeit
absenteeism das Fernbleiben, die (häufige) Abwesenheit von Arbeitnehmern
Definition: Absenteeism refers to the habitual non-presence of an employee at his or her job. Habitual non-presence
extends beyond what is deemed to be within an acceptable realm of days away from the office for legitimate causes
such as scheduled vacations, occasional illness, and family emergencies.
account (fin.) das Konto
accounts payable die Verbindlichkeiten
Definition: Accounts payable (AP) is an account within the general ledger that represents a company's
obligation to pay off a short-term debt to its creditors or suppliers. Another common usage of "AP" refers
to the business department or division that is responsible for making payments owed by the company to
suppliers and other creditors.
bank account das Bankkonto
deposit money in an account (v.) Geld auf ein Konto einzahlen
transfer money to an account (v.) Geld auf ein Konto überweisen
current account (Br.) das Girokonto
checking account (US.) das Girokonto
deposit account das Festgeldkonto
accountability die Verantwortlichkeit, die Rechenschaft, die Haftung, auch: die Straf-
mündigkeit
Example: Public companies have an accountability towards society.
accountant der Buchhalter, die Buchhalterin
certified public accountant (CPA) der Wirtschaftsprüfer, die Wirtschaftsprüferin
tax accountant (certified tax advisor) der Steuerberater, die Steuerberaterin
1
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
accounting fin. die Bilanzierung, die Buchführung, das Rechnungswesen
conduct (an) accounting (v.) bilanzieren
achievement das Erreichen, die Vollendung, die Leistung
Example: The company's name is synonymous with outstanding achievement.
ad campaign der Reklamefeldzug
advertisement die Reklame, die Werbung
advertising die Werbung, die Reklame
deceptive advertising die irreführende Werbung
place advertisements (v.) Anzeigen schalten
Advertising (department in a company) die Werbeabteilung
affiliation die Zugehörigkeit, auch: die Angliederung
Example: The amount of severance payment depends on income and the extent of company affiliation.
allocation (fin.) die Zuordnung, die Zuteilung, die Zuweisung
Example: The company’s new CFO proposed a better allocation of resources.
allocate (v.) zuteilen
allowance der Zuschuss, die Zulage, in anderen Kontexten auch: Preisnachlass, Bewilli-
gung
Example: Students can receive a monthly housing allowance.
amendment die Änderung, die Ergänzung, der Zusatz
Example: Any amendment to the contract must be made in writing.
amend (v.) ändern, abändern
Example: The law was amended to protect the employees' rights.
annual report der Jahresbericht
anti bribery law das Anti-Korruptionsgesetz
2
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
anti money laundering law das Geldwäschegesetz (vgl. money laundering)
antitrust law das Kartellgesetz (vgl. cartel & trust)
Example: Competitors who collude to fix prices would be breaking antitrust laws.
application form der Bewerbungsbogen
appraisal die Beurteilung, die Bewertung, die Einschätzung
Example: The manager carried out an appraisal of her employees' performance.
apprentice der Lehrling, der Auszubildende, die Auszubildende
apprenticeship die Lehre, die Ausbildung
aptitude test der Eignungstest
arbitrage die Arbitrage
Definition: Arbitrage is the simultaneous purchase and sale of an asset to profit from an imbalance in the price. It is
a trade that profits by exploiting the price differences of identical or similar financial instruments on different markets
or in different forms. Arbitrage exists as a result of market inefficiencies and would therefore not exist if all markets
were perfectly efficient.
assembly shop, assembling shop die Montagehalle, die Montagewerkstatt
assets die Vermögenswerte, die Aktiva (vgl. liabilities)
Definition: Accounting standards define an asset as something your company owns that can provide future economic
benefits. Cash, inventory, accounts receivable, land, buildings, equipment – these are all assets. Liabilities are your
company's obligations – either money that must be paid or services that must be performed. A successful company
has more assets than liabilities, meaning it has the resources to fulfill its obligations. On the other hand, a company
whose liabilities exceed its assets is probably in trouble.
assignment (fin.) die Zuordnung, die Zuweisung, auch: die Aufgabe
assortment die Auswahl, das Sortiment
Example: The sales person showed the customer an assortment of fabrics.
audit die Prüfung, das Audit, auch: die Bilanzprüfung, die Rechnungsprüfung
first party audit das interne Audit, das interne Qualitätsaudit
second party audit das Lieferantenaudit
tax audit die Steuerprüfung
3
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
audit division/office der Rechnungshof
audit (v.) die Bilanz prüfen
auditor der Bilanzprüfer, die Bilanzprüferin, der Rechnungsprüfer, der Steuerprüfer
austerity die Austerität, die Einschränkung, die Entbehrung
Definition: In economics, austerity is defined as a set of economic policies a government implements to control public
sector debt. Austerity measures (see below) are the response of a government whose public debt is so large that the
risk of default or the inability to service the required payments on its debt obligations, becomes a real possibility.
austerity measures die Sparmaßnahmen
Example: The government's austerity measures prevented national bankruptcy.
auto-reply, out-of-office auto-reply n. die Abwesenheitsnotiz, die Eingangsbestätigung
B
balance sheet die Bilanz, die Bilanzaufstellung
Definition: A balance sheet is a financial statement that reports a company's assets, liabilities and shareholders'
equity at a specific point in time, and provides a basis for computing rates of return and evaluating its capital structure.
It is a financial statement that provides a snapshot of what a company owns and owes, as well as the amount invested
by shareholders. It is used alongside other important financial statements such as the income statement and statement
of cash flows in conducting fundamental analysis or calculating financial ratios.
bank account das Bankkonto
bankruptcy die Insolvenz
bargain das Schnäppchen, das Angebot
bargain (v.) verhandeln, feilschen
Example: We bargained a little and finally got the old table at a fair price.
barter (trade) das Tauschgeschäft, der Tauschhandel
4
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
bear market (stock exchange) die Baisse, auch: der Bärenmarkt
Definition: A bear market is when the price of an investment falls at least 20% or more from its 52-week high. For
example, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (a stock market index that tracks the stock prices of the top 30 U.S.
companies) hit its record high of 26,828.39 on October 3, 2018. If it fell 20% to 21,462.71, it would be in a bear
market. Bear markets can occur in any asset class. In stocks, a bear market is measured by the Dow, the S&P 500 (a
stock market index that tracks the stocks of 500 large-cap U.S. companies), and the NASDAQ (the largest electronic
equities exchange in the United States). In bonds, a bear market could occur in U.S. Treasuries, municipal bonds, or
corporate bonds. Bear markets also happen with currencies, gold, and commodities such as oil. Price drops in con-
sumer goods, such as computers, automobiles, or TVs, are not bear markets. Instead, that's called deflation.
bill die Rechnung
foot the bill (v.) die Rechnung bezahlen/begleichen, für die Kosten aufkommen
board (also: management board, executive board) der Vorstand
board meeting die Vorstandssitzung
boardroom der Sitzungssaal
bond (fin.) der Bond, der Pfandbrief, das Wertpapier
government bonds die Staatsanleihe, die Staatspapiere
bonded, under bond (customs) unter Zollverschluss
branch die Filiale, die Zweigstelle, die Niederlassung; auch: der Industriezweig
Example: The bank is planning to open a branch in Portugal.
branch manager der Filialleiter, die Filialleiterin
brand die Marke, die Handelsmarke, der Markenartikel
branding die Markenführung, die Markenbildung, die Markenpolitik
bribe die Bestechung, das Bestechungsgeld
Definition: A bribe is an illegal act involving the exchange of consideration, such as money, with the purpose of
influencing behavior. Bribes are often made to public officials or heads of other regulatory agencies to escape legal
convictions or unfavorable rulings or as an incentive for the payee to alter or overlook pertinent regulations that would
otherwise restrict the payer.
broker der Makler, die Maklerin, auch: Broker, Börsenmakler/-in
brokerage die Vermittlungsgebühr
5
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
buck (coll.) der Dollar
bull market (stock exchange) die Hausse, auch: der Bullenmarkt
Definition: A bull market is when an investment's price rises over an extended period. The phrase is commonly used
when describing securities, such as stocks, bonds, and commodities. But bull markets can also occur in other invest-
ments, such as housing. In contrast, a so-called bear market (see above) occurs when prices fall 20 percent. Investors'
confidence collapses, and they believe prices will continue falling.
building loan das Baudarlehen
building loan contract der Bausparvertrag
business das Geschäft, die Wirtschaft, die Branche, der Betrieb, das Unternehmen
business administration die Betriebswirtschaft, die Betriebswirtschaftslehre
business acquaintance, business associate der Geschäftsfreund, die Geschäftsfreundin
business attire Geschäftskleidung
Example: In our company men are required to wear blazers or dress jackets and ties, and women should wear corre-
spondingly dressy business attire.
business card die Visitenkarte
business center/centre das Geschäftszentrum
business college die Wirtschaftshochschule
business conduct, business practices (Pl.) das Geschäftsgebaren
Example: It is important for proper business conduct that the accounts and receipts correctly and transparently repre-
sent all business transactions.
business expenses die Spesen
businesslike geschäftlich, geschäftsmäßig (manner), geschäftstüchtig (know-how)
business park das Industriegelände
business lunch das Geschäftsessen
business school die Wirtschaftsschule
business suit der Anzug
6
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
business transaction der Geschäftsvorgang, die Geschäftstransaktion
business trip die Geschäftsreise
C
campaign die Kampagne, die Aktion, auch: Wahlkampf
Example: The advertising agency developed a very successful campaign for our new product.
carbon footprint die CO 2 Bilanz
carpool die Fahrgemeinschaft
cartel das Kartell (vgl. trust & antitrust law)
Definition: A cartel is an organization created from a formal agreement between a group of producers of a good or
service to regulate supply in order to regulate or manipulate prices.
cash das Bargeld
cash advance der Barvorschuss
cash cow das umsatzstarke Produkt, Cash Cow, auch: der Goldesel
cash deposit die Geldeinlage
cash dispenser, cash machine der Geldautomat
cash flow der Cashflow, der Geldfluss, der Kapitalfluss
Definition: The business finance term cash flow refers to the amount of operating cash that “flows” through
the business and affects the business’s liquidity. Cash flow reports reflect activity for a specified period of
time, usually one accounting period or one month. Maintaining tight control of cash flow is especially im-
portant if your small business is new, since ready cash can be limited until the business begins to grow and
produce more working capital.
cash point (Br.) die Kasse
7
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
pay cash (v.) bar bezahlen
cash (in) (check) (v.) einlösen
cashier (register) die Kasse
cashier (person) der Kassierer, die Kassiererin
cashier's check der Bankscheck
casualty insurance die Unfallversicherung
certificate of health das Gesundheitszeugnis
Definition: A health certificate is written by a doctor and displays the official results of a physical examination. It is
usually required when applying for medical professions and/or for jobs in the hotel, catering and tourism industry.
certify (v.) beglaubigen
certified check gedeckter Scheck
certified copy beglaubigte Abschrift/Kopie
certified letter eingeschriebener Brief
certified public accountant (CPA) der Wirtschaftsprüfer, die Wirtschaftsprüferin
certified tax advisor der Steuerberater, die Steuerberaterin
chairman of the managing board der Vorstandsvorsitzende, die Vorstandsvorsitzende
chicken feed (coll .) das Kleingeld, die lächerliche Summe
client (law) der Mandant, die Mandantin
closing price der Schlussabrechnungspreis, die Schlussnotierung
clothes label die Bekleidungsmarke
code of ethics der Moralkodex
collective bargaining die Tarifverhandlungen
Definition: Good-faith process between an organization's management and a trade union representing its employees,
for negotiating wages, working hours, working conditions, and other matters of mutual interest. To the management,
8
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
this process presents (usually) one set of people to negotiate with; to the employees, it gives greatly enhanced
bargaining-power. Collective bargaining is the fundamental principle on which the trade union system is based.
commerce der Handel, der Handelsverkehr
commercial real estate die Gewerbeimmobilien
commission die Provision, auch: die Kommission
commitment (to something) das Engagement (für etwas)
commodity (often plural commodities) Ware(n), Rohstoff(e)
commodity market der Rohstoffmarkt
commodity futures market der Warenterminmarkt, die Warenterminbörse
commodity trading der Rohstoffhandel, der Warenhandel
commuter der Pendler, die Pendlerin
company pension scheme die betriebliche Altersversorgung, die betriebliche Altersvor-
sorge
compensation die Vergütung, auch: Abfindung, ferner: der (Schaden-)Ersatz
Example: The company offered the injured worker a generous compensation.
compensation package die Gesamtvergütung
competition (I) der Wettbewerb
in competition im Wettbewerb
compete (with) (v.) konkurrieren (mit)
competition (II) die Konkurrenz
our competition/competitors unsere Konkurrenz
fierce/sharp/keen competition die scharfe/heftige Konkurrenz
competitor der Konkurrent/derWettberwerber, die Konkurrentin/die Wettberwerberin
complaint (business) die Reklamation
9
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
file/make a complaint (v.) reklamieren
compliance die Regelbefolgung, die Einhaltung, die Erfüllung
comply with sth. (v.) erfüllen
Example: Job applicants who comply with the requirements stand a good chance.
confidentiality die Vertraulichkeit
Example: Our archival documents have different levels of confidentiality.
confidential vertraulich
conglomerate der Mischkonzern (vgl. consortium)
Definition: A conglomerate is a corporation made up of a number of different, seemingly unrelated businesses. In a
conglomerate, one company owns a controlling stake in a number of smaller companies which conduct business
separately. The difference between conglomerate and consortium is that a conglomerate is a cluster of heterogeneous
things while a consortium is an association or combination of businesses, financial institutions, or investors, for the
purpose of engaging in a joint venture.
consortium das Konsortium, die Unternehmensgruppe (vgl. conglomerate)
contraband die Schmuggelware
Example: The contraband was confiscated by customs at the airport.
convenience store das Lebensmittelgeschäft, das Bedarfsartikelgeschäft
corporation das Unternehmen, die Gesellschaft, auch: Aktiengesellschaft
corporate management die Unternehmensführung, die Unternehmensleitung
contingency plan der Ausweichplan, der Alternativplan, der Plan B
covered (fin.) gedeckt
covered check/cheque (Br.) gedeckter Scheck
covered option gedeckte Option
cover letter das Anschreiben, das Motivationsschreiben
Example: Katharina’s outstanding cover letter got her the job.
cost of living die Lebenshaltungskosten
10
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
counterfeit die Fälschung, auch: das Falschgeld
Example: Once you buy merchandise that is counterfeit, you'll have no way of getting your money back should that
merchandise be defective in any way.
counterfeit (v.) fälschen
credit der Kredit, das Guthaben
credit (v.) gutschreiben
letter of credit der Kreditbrief
on credit auf Kredit
credit balance der Kontostand
credit limit die Kreditgrenze
creditor der Gläubiger, die Gläubigerin
Example: Filing for bankruptcy protection allows the company to avoid paying creditors while it works out a plan to
reorganize.
credit rating die Kreditwürdigkeit
criminal record (certificate) das polizeiliche Führungszeugnis
Definition: A record of a person's criminal history. The information included in a criminal record and the existence of
a criminal record varies between countries and even between jurisdictions within a country. In most cases it lists all
non-expunged criminal offences and may also include traffic offences such as speeding and drunk driving. In some
countries the record is limited to actual convictions (where the individual has pleaded guilty or been found guilty by
a qualified court, resulting in the entry of a conviction), while in others it also includes arrests, charges dismissed,
charges pending and charges of which the individual has been acquitted. A criminal history may be used by potential
employers, lenders, and others to assess a person's trustworthiness. Criminal records may also be relevant for inter-
national travel, and for the charging and sentencing of persons who commit additional criminal offenses.
currency die Währung
curriculum vitae (CV) der Lebenslauf (vgl. resume)
Definition: A curriculum vitae (Latin for “course of (one’s) life”) is a short account of one's career and qualifications
prepared typically by an applicant for a position. Curriculum vitae is abbreviated CV, and is pluralized as curricula
vitae. The difference between a CV and a resume (common in the USA) lies in the length, layout, and purpose of
these documents. CVs have no length limit; resumes are typically one to two pages long. A CV details the whole
course of the candidate's academic career; a resume summarizes skills and work experience.
customer der Kunde, die Kundin
11
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
customer friendliness die Kundenfreundlichkeit
customer loyalty die Kundentreue
customer relationship management das Kundenbeziehungsmanagement/-pflege
Definition: Customer relationship management refers to the principles, practices, and guidelines that an
organization follows when interacting with its customers. From the organization's point of view, this entire
relationship encompasses direct interactions with customers, such as sales and service-related processes,
and forecasting and analysis of customer trends and behaviors. Ultimately, it serves to enhance the custom-
er's overall experience.
customer retention die Kundenbindung
customer satisfaction die Kundenzufriedenheit
Customer Service (department in a company) die Kundenbetreuung(sabteilung)
customer unfriendly (adj.) kundenfern
cut-throat competition der Verdrängungswettbewerb
cuts die Kürzungen, die Etatkürzungen, der Abbau
Example: Unfortunately, cuts in the budget were unavoidable.
job cuts der Abbau von Arbeitsplätzen
swingeing cuts die drakonischen (= extremen, einschneidenden) Sparmaßnahmen
D
day trader der Tageshändler
day trading das Tagesgeschäft
deadline der Abgabetermin, der Stichtag, die Frist, die Deadline
12
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
tight deadline sehr enger, knapper Zeitrahmen
meet a deadline eine Frist einhalten
debt die Schuld, die Verschuldung
debt collection agency das Inkassobüro
debt rescheduling die Umschuldung
national debt Staatsschulden
be in debt (v.) verschuldet sein
recover a debt (v.) eine Schuld eintreiben
debt management das Schuldenmanagement, die Schuldenpolitik
Example: They offer a debt management plan allowing you to pay a fixed sum each month, which is then divided
among your creditors.
debtor der Schuldner, die Schuldnerin
decent wage der faire Lohn (vgl. auch starvation wage sowie pittance)
deduction der Abzug
Example: The interest I receive on my savings account is paid after the deduction of tax.
defendant der Angeklagte, die Angeklagte
deflation die Deflation (vgl. inflation)
Definition: Deflation is a general decline in prices for goods and services, typically associated with a contraction in
the supply of money and credit in the economy. During deflation, the purchasing power of currency rises over time.
defraud (v.) betrügen, täuschen
Example: He defrauded his clients and stole their money.
delay die Verzögerung, der Verzug, die Verspätung, auch: der Aufschub
demand die Nachfrage
13
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
boost demand, stimulate demand (v.) die Nachfrage ankurbeln
depreciation die Abschreibung, die Wertminderung
Definition: The value of any asset can be said to depreciate when it loses some of that value in increments over time.
Depreciation occurs due to wear and tear. Various methods of depreciation are used by businesses to decrease the
recorded value of assets.
descriptive literature das Informationsmaterial
devaluation die Abwertung
discount der Rabatt, der Diskont
cash discount das Skonto
discount broker der Wechselmakler
discount rate der Diskontsatz
give a discount Rabatt geben, diskontieren
dismissal die Entlassung, die Kündigung
dismissal letter das Entlassungsschreiben, das Kündigungsschreiben
dismissal protection der Kündigungsschutz
dismissal with notice die fristgemäße Kündigung
dismissal without notice die fristlose Kündigung
dispatch der Versand
dispatch counter der Abfertigungsschalter
dispatch department die Versandabteilung
with dispatch (adj.) prompt, unverzüglich
divulge (v.) enthüllen, preisgeben
Example: We are not allowed to divulge company secrets.
dole (Br.) das Arbeitslosengeld, die Arbeitslosenunterstützung
14
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
Example: Young people on (= receiving) the dole are often bored and frustrated.
donation die Spende, die Schenkung
down payment die Anzahlung
Example: I need to make a down payment for the house.
dunning die Mahnung, das Mahnwesen
dunning amount der Mahnbetrag
dunning letter (also: dunning notice) der Mahnbescheid, der Mahnbrief
Example: After the due date of the invoice, I received a dunning letter.
E
economy die Wirtschaft, die Ökonomie
economics die Ökonomie, auch: Wirtschaftswissenschaften, die Volkswirtschaftslehre
economic crime (also: white-collar crime) die Wirtschaftskriminalität
economic downturn der Wirtschaftsabschwung, der Konjunktureinbruch
economic issues die Wirtschaftsfragen
economic upturn der Wirtschaftsaufschwung
enclosure die Anlage
enterprise das Unternehmen
ailing enterprise das notleidende Unternehmen
building enterprise (auch: construction enterprise) das Bauunternehmen
competitive enterprise das konkurrierende Unternehmen
15
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
craft enterprise das das Handwerksunternehmen, der Handwerksbetrieb
family enterprise/business das Familienunternehmen
entrant der Berufsanfänger, die Berufsanfängerin
equity (fin.) das Eigenkapital
Definition: In finance, equity is ownership of assets that may have debts or other liabilities attached to them. Equity
is measured for accounting purposes by subtracting liabilities from the value of an asset. For example, if someone
owns a car worth $9,000 and owes $3,000 on the loan used to buy the car, then the difference of $6,000 is equity.
Equity can apply to a single asset, such as a car or house, or to an entire business entity.
estimate der Kostenvoranschlag, auch: die Schätzung, der Schätzwert
Example: Our team is requesting estimates from several information technology companies to get an idea of the
project cost.
estimate (v.) schätzen, abschätzen
estate management die Immobilienverwaltung
exchange (also: stock exchange, stock market) die Börse
expiration der Verfall, der Ablauf
Example: The pharmaceutical company faces a wave of patent expirations on its bestselling drugs.
expiration/expiry date das Verfalldatum, das Fälligkeitsdatum
expiration/expiry month der Verfallmonat
expiration/expiry cycle der Verfallzyklus
expenditure(s) die Ausgaben, die Aufwendungen
exploitation die Ausbeutung
Example: There is a law against the exploitation of workers.
exploit somebody (v.) jemand ausbeuten
extend (v.) verlängern
extension die Verlängerung
Example: My manager is going to grant an extension of my contract.
16
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
extension (number) die Durchwahl (Tel.)
extortionate halsabschneiderisch, i. S. v. übertrieben teuer
Example: Most retailers charge extortionate prices for extended warranties - often more than three times as much as
an independent provider.
F
finance die Finanzwirtschaft, das Finanzwesen
financial settlement die Abfindung, die Ausgleichsleistung
Example: In a financial settlement, money is awarded by a court in compensation for a breach of contract.
financial compensation die finanzielle Entschädigung
financial scope der finanzielle Spielraum
financial squeeze (also: financial bottleneck) der finanzielle Engpass
financial statement der Jahresabschluss, der Geschäftsbericht, der Finanzbericht
Example: The financial statement showed that the company was thriving.
fine die Geldstrafe
fiscal (adj.) steuerlich, steuerrechtlich
fiscal year das Rechnungsjahr, das Geschäftsjahr
fixed asset der Anlagegegenstand
Definition: The term refers to a tangible, long-term asset used for the business and not expected to be sold or
otherwise converted into cash during the current or upcoming fiscal year is called a fixed asset. Fixed assets are items
like furniture, computer equipment, equipment, and real estate.
force majeure die höhere Gewalt
Definition: Force majeure has been taken from French language, meaning “greater force.” It is connected with the
idea that natural occurrences are an act of God. In business, the term refers to a clause in a contract that eliminates
17
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
the duties or obligations of the parties. The clause is enforced when unavoidable, natural calamities affect the ability
of the parties to meet their obligations under the agreement.
foreign exchange die Devisen (vgl. forex)
foreman der Vorarbeiter, der (Werk-)Meister
forex (market) die Devisen, der Devisenmarkt
Definition: The term refers to foreign exchange (forex), more specifically to the trading of one currency for another.
For example, one can swap the U.S. dollar for the euro. Foreign exchange transactions can take place on the foreign
exchange market, also known as the forex market.
freelancer der Freiberufler, die Freiberuflerin
Definition: A freelancer is an individual who earns money on a per-job or per-task basis, usually for short-term work.
A freelancer is not an employee of a firm, and may therefore be at liberty to complete different jobs concurrently by
various individuals or firms, unless contractually specified to work exclusively until a particular project is completed.
Typically, freelancers are considered independent workers and may do such contract work full-time or as a side job to
supplement some other full-time employment, time permitting. Freelancers, as independent contractors, typically re-
quire signed contracts for the job to be done and will agree to a pre-determined fee based on the time and effort
required to complete the task. This fee may be a flat fee or a per-hour, per-day, per-project fee, or some other similar
measure.
free trade agreement Freihandelsabkommen (vgl. protectionism)
Definition: A free trade agreement is a pact between two or more nations to reduce barriers to imports and exports
among them. Under a free trade policy, goods and services can be bought and sold across international borders with
little or no government tariffs, quotas, subsidies, or prohibitions to inhibit their exchange. The concept of free trade
is the opposite of trade protectionism or economic isolationism.
freight die Fracht, die Güter
Example: Freight can be transported by rail or road.
friendly takeover die freundliche Übernahme (vgl. hostile takeover)
Definition: A friendly takeover is the act of target company's management and board of directors agreeing to be
absorbed by an acquiring company. Thus, a friendly takeover is a scenario in which a target company is willingly
acquired by another company. Friendly takeovers are subject to approval by the target company's shareholders, who
generally greenlight deals only if they believe the price per share offer is reasonable.
fringe benefits die zusätzlich (zu Lohn/Gehalt) gewährten Leistungen, die Nebenleistun-
gen
Definition: Fringe benefits are additions to compensation that companies give their employees. Some fringe benefits
are given universally to all employees of a company while others may be offered only to those at executive levels.
Some benefits are awarded to compensate employees for costs related to their work while others are geared to general
job satisfaction. In any case, employers use fringe benefits to help them recruit, motivate, and keep high-quality
people.
18
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
G
general ledger das Hauptbuch
Definition: A general ledger represents the record-keeping system for a company's financial data. It provides a record
of each financial transaction that takes place during the life of an operating company. The general ledger holds account
information that is needed to prepare the company's financial statements, and transaction data is segregated by type
into accounts for assets, liabilities, owners' equity, revenues, and expenses.
giveaway das Werbegeschenk
global economy die Weltwirtschaft
globalization die Globalisierung
globalize (v.) globalisieren
global trade der Welthandel
glut die Fülle, der Überfluss
Example: The current glut of graduates means that many of them will not be able to find jobs.
grant die Förderung, der Zuschuss, auch: das Stipendium
grant (v.) genehmigen, bewilligen, (einen Zuschuss) gewähren
grace period die Schonfrist
Example: You have a ten-day grace period in which to pay your insurance premium.
grievance der Kummer, der Missstand, auch: die Beschwerde
Example: She filed a grievance against her former employer.
gross (econ.) brutto, Brutto- Gesamt-
gross assets das Bruttovermögen
gross domestic product das Bruttoinlandsprodukt
19
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
Definition: Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is the total monetary or market value of all the finished goods
and services produced within a country's borders in a specific time period. As a broad measure of overall
domestic production, it functions as a comprehensive scorecard of the country’s economic health. Though
GDP is usually calculated on an annual basis, it can be calculated on a quarterly basis as well. In the United
States, for example, the government releases an annualized GDP estimate for each quarter and also for an
entire year. Most of the individual data sets will also be given in real terms, meaning that the data is adjusted
for price changes, and is, therefore, net of inflation.
gross income das Bruttoeinkommen
Definition: Gross income for an individual—also known as gross pay when it's on a paycheck—is the indi-
vidual’s total pay from his or her employer before taxes or other deductions. This includes income from all
sources and is not limited to income received in cash; it also includes property or services received. Gross
annual income is the amount of money a person earns in one year before taxes and includes income from
all sources.
gross misconduct das grobe (berufliche) Fehlverhalten
Definition: Gross misconduct refers to behavior that can get a person dismissed straight away from work
because it is serious enough and possibly criminal. Illegal drug use at work, being drunk while on duty,
stealing, deliberate discrimination (such as harassment, not one of the accidental forms, such as indirect
discrimination), and/or very serious breaches of health and safety rules are all examples of gross misconduct.
gross national product (GNP) das Bruttosozialprodukt
Definition: Gross national product (GNP) is an estimate of total value of all the final products and services
turned out in a given period by the means of production owned by a country's residents. GNP is commonly
calculated by taking the sum of personal consumption expenditures, private domestic investment, govern-
ment expenditure, net exports and any income earned by residents from overseas investments, minus income
earned within the domestic economy by foreign residents.
gross profits der Bruttogewinn, der Bruttoertrag
gross turnover der Bruttoumsatz
gross weight das Bruttogewicht
growth potential das Wachstumspotential
growth rate die Wachstumsrate
H
haggling das Feilschen, das Handeln
20
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
Example: Haggling between the company and investors over valuations will continue until the price is announced.
haulage die Spedition, der Transport
Example: The carrier takes care of all aspects of haulage.
hazardous work allowance, hazard pay die Gefahrenzulage
Definition: The term refers to a higher hourly rate or a bonus paid to a salaried employee who has to take a serious
risk on the job. The nature of this risk can be anything, but it includes all kinds of situations where even the best
safety equipment and procedures still leave a significant chance of bodily harm, death, or permanent physical or
mental damage. This can include (1) working with dangerous chemicals and pathogens, (2) working in hostile envi-
ronments like barren deserts, (3) working in active war zones, (4) working in crisis areas, (5) working on specific
construction sites.
health service das Gesundheitswesen
hire (v.) mieten, auch: einstellen, anstellen
Example: The company hired some additional staff.
hole punch, puncher der Locher
holiday entitlement der (bezahlte) Urlaub
honesty die Ehrlichkeit
hostile takeover die feindliche Übernahme (vgl. friendly takeover)
Definition: A hostile takeover is the acquisition of one company (called the target company) by another (called the
acquirer) that is accomplished by going directly to the company's shareholders or fighting to replace management to
get the acquisition approved. The key characteristic of a hostile takeover is that the target company's management
does not want the deal to go through.
I
incentive der Anreiz, der Ansporn, der Leistungsanreiz
Example: Sales staff receive an incentive bonus on top of their remuneration.
cash incentive die Barprämie
incentive compensation die Erfolgsprämie
21
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
independent contractor der selbständige Unternehmer, die selbständige Unternehmerin
industry die Industrie, auch: Branche
Example: The video games industry has grown rapidly over the last years.
inflation die Inflation (vgl. deflation)
Definition: Inflation is an economic term that refers to an environment of generally rising prices of goods and services
within a particular economy. As general prices rise, the purchasing power of the consumer decreases. The measure of
inflation over time is referred to as the inflation rate.
infringement der Verstoß, die Zuwiderhandlung, die Rechtsverletzung
copyright infringement die Urheberrechtsverletzung
Example: The definition of copyright infringement is the illegal duplication or theft of someone else's creative work
that has been protected by a copyright.
patent infringement die Patentrechtsverletzung
inheritance die Erbschaft
inheritance tax die Erbschaftssteuer
Definition: An inheritance tax is a tax imposed by certain states on those who inherit assets from the estate of a
deceased person. Its tax rate depends on the state of residence, the value of the inheritance, and the beneficiary's
relationship to the decedent.
insurance die Versicherung
installment die Rate, die Ratenzahlung
insurance agent der/die Versicherungsagent, -kaufmann/-kauffrau
insurance fraud der Versicherungsbetrug
insurance premium die Versicherungsprämie
liability insurance die Haftpflichtversicherung
intangible asset der immaterielle Vermögenswert
Definition: The term intangible asset refers to a business asset that is non-physical. These assets can be items like
patents, goodwill, and intellectual property.
interest die Zinsen
22
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
Example: My business partner lent me money without asking for interest.
interest bearing verzinslich, mit Zinsertrag, zinsbringend
interest rate der Zinssatz
interpersonal skills die soziale Kompetenz
inventory die Inventur, auch: das Inventar, der Warenbestand
do inventory, take inventory (v.) Inventur machen
investment die Kapitalanlage, die Investition
investment guidelines die Anlagerichtlinien
investor der Anleger, die Anlegerin
invoice die Rechnung
invoice amount der Rechnungsbetrag
IT (Information Technology) (department in a company) die IT-Abteilung
item on the agenda der Tagesordnungspunkt
J
jeopardize (v.) gefährden
job der Job, die Arbeit, die Stelle
job advertisement die Stellenanzeige, die Stellenausschreibung
job centre (Br.), job center (US.) das Arbeitsamt
job creation die Arbeitsplatzbeschaffung
job description die Stellenbeschreibung, das Berufsbild
23
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
job enlargement die Aufgabenerweiterung
job entrant der Berufsanfänger, die Berufsanfängerin
job evaluation die Arbeitsplatzbewertung
job interview das Bewerbungsgespräch
job satisfaction die Arbeitszufriedenheit
job seeker der Arbeitssuchende, die Arbeitssuchende
job sharing die Arbeitsplatzteilung
joint venture das Joint Venture, das Gemeinschaftsunternehmen, das Gemeinschaftspro-
jekt
Definition: A joint venture is a business arrangement in which two or more parties agree to pool their resources for
the purpose of accomplishing a specific task. This task can be a new project or any other business activity. In a joint
venture, each of the participants is responsible for profits, losses, and costs associated with it. However, the venture
is its own entity, separate from the participants' other business interests. Examples of joint ventures include: (1)
Vodafone & Telefónica (agreement to share their mobile network), (2) BMW & Toyota (cooperation on research into
hydrogen fuel cells, vehicle electrification and ultra-lightweight materials), Google & NASA (development of Google
Earth), (4) Renault & Nissan etc.
jurisdiction die Gerichtsbarkeit
K
key account der Großkunde
key account manager der Key Account Manager, der Groß- bzw. Schlüsselkundenbetreuer
key qualifications die Schlüsselqualifikationen
key responsibilities die Hauptzuständigkeiten
knockout price der Schleuderpreis
24
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
L
labor union (US.) die Gewerkschaft (vgl. trade union)
labour die Arbeit, die Arbeiterschaft
labourer der (Hilfs-)Arbeiter, die (Hilfs-)Arbeiterin
labour costs die Lohnkosten
launch (n.) (ad campaign, product) die Lancierung
launch (v.) (ad campaign, product) lancieren, ein Produkt auf den Markt bringen
lean management das Lean Management, das schlanke (Unternehmens)Management
Definition: Lean management is an approach to managing an organization that supports the concept of continuous
improvement, a long-term approach to work that systematically seeks to achieve small, incremental changes in pro-
cesses in order to improve efficiency and quality.
leave der (Jahres)Urlaub
leave entitlement der Urlaubsanspruch
legal fees die Anwaltskosten
Legal (Department) (department in a company) die Rechtsabteilung
letter of apology das Entschuldigungsschreiben
letter of recommendation das (Arbeits)Zeugnis, das Empfehlungsschreiben
Example: The secretary asked for a reference letter from her former boss.
leverage (effect) die Hebelwirkung, der Einfluss
levy die Abgabe(n)
Example: The levy to the city of Munich amounts to 10 percent.
25
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
liabilities die Verbindlichkeiten, die Passiva (vgl. assets)
Definition: A liability, in general, is an obligation to, or something that you owe somebody else. Liabilities are defined
as a company's legal financial debts or obligations that arise during the course of business operations. They can be
limited, or unlimited liability. Liabilities are settled over time through the transfer of economic benefits including
money, goods, or services. Recorded on the right side of the balance sheet, liabilities include loans, accounts payable,
mortgages, deferred revenues, earned premiums, unearned premiums, and accrued expenses. Even marriages can
change your liability.
litigation der Rechtsstreit, das Gerichtsverfahren
Example: The litigation between the two companies was settled the previous year.
loan das Darlehen, der Kredit
Example: Applicants for a loan can fill in a form online.
take out a loan (v.) einen Kredit aufnehmen
loan shark der Kredithai
lockout (strike) die Aussperrung
M
management das Management, die Betriebsführung
crisis management das Krisenmanagement, die Krisenbewältigung
a hands-on management style ein zupackender Führungsstil
managing director der Geschäftsführer, die Geschäftsführerin
marketing (department) die Marketingabteilung
market research die Marktforschung
market reseacher der Markforscher, die Marktforscherin
maternity leave die Elternzeit (Mutter)
26
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
mediation die Mediation, die Vermittlung, die Schlichtung
Definition: Mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution in which the involved parties bring their dispute to a
neutral third party, who helps them agree on a settlement. Mediation can be used for a variety of purposes such as
negotiating contracts, organizing a partnership, creating a new business, dismantling an existing business or resolving
personnel disputes just to name a few.
merchandise die Ware
merchant der Kaufmann, die Kauffrau
merger die Fusion, die Firmenfusion
Definition: A merger is an agreement that unites two existing companies into one new company. There are several
types of mergers and also several reasons why companies complete mergers. Mergers and acquisitions are commonly
done to expand a company’s reach, expand into new segments, or gain market share. All of these are done to increase
shareholder value.
mismanagement die Misswirtschaft, das Missmanagement
Example: Mismanagement led the company to bankruptcy.
monetary monetär, finanziell, währungspolitisch
monetary fund der Währungsfonds
money laundering die Geldwäsche (vgl. anti money laundering law)
Definition: Money laundering is the process of making large amounts of money generated by a criminal activity, such
as drug trafficking or terrorist funding, appear to have come from a legitimate source. The money from the criminal
activity is considered dirty, and the process "launders" it to make it look clean. Money laundering is itself a crime.
mortgage die Hypothek, die Grundschuld
Definition: A mortgage is a debt instrument, secured by the collateral of specified real estate property, that the
borrower is obliged to pay back with a predetermined set of payments. Individuals and businesses use mortgages to
make large real estate purchases without paying the entire purchase price up front. Over many years, the borrower
repays the loan, plus interest, until she or he owns the property free and clear.
take out a mortgage (v.) eine Hypothek aufnehmen
mortmain der unveräußerliche Besitz
Definition: Mortmain is the perpetual, inalienable ownership of real estate by an ecclesiastical or other corporation.
Historically, the land owner usually would be the religious office of a church; today, insofar as mortmain prohibitions
against perpetual ownership still exist, it refers most often to modern companies and charitable trusts. The term
mortmain is derived from Mediaeval Latin “mortua manus”, literally "dead hand", through Old French “morte main”
(in modern French “main morte”).
27
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
N
national debt die Staatsverschuldung
neglect (v.) vernachlässigen, versäumen
negligence die Fahrlässigkeit, die Nachlässigkeit
negotiation die Verhandlung
negotiate (v.) verhandeln
nepotism die Vetternwirtschaft, der Nepotismus, die Klüngelei
nest egg der Notgroschen, das finanzielle Polster, die finanzielle Rücklage
net (fin.) netto, Netto-
net assets das Nettovermögen
(disposable) net income das (verfügbare) Nettoeinkommen
net profit der Reingewinn, der Nettoertrag
niggard der Geizhals
nondurable goods, nondurables die Verbrauchsgüter
Definition: Consumer goods (such as textiles, food, clothing, petroleum, and chemical products) that are only able to
be used for a relatively short time before deteriorating or that are consumed in a single usage
nondelivery die Nichtlieferung
nonpayment die Nichtzahlung
nonperformance die Nichterfüllung
notice die Ankündigung, die Mitteilung, die Benachrichtigung, auch: die Kündigung
Example: He handed in his notice because he wanted to travel around the world.
28
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
notice clause die Kündigungsklausel
notice period, period of notice die Kündigungsfrist
notary der Notar, die Notarin
notarially certified (adj.) notariell beglaubigt
notarize (v.) beglaubigen
notarized copy die (notariell) beglaubigte Abschrift/Kopie
null and void unwirksam, null und nichtig
nullification die Aufhebung, die Nichtigkeitserklärung
O
offshoot der Ableger, die Filiale, die Zweigstelle
Example: The small publishing house is an offshoot of a large media concern.
offshoring das Offshoring (vgl. outsourcing)
Example: The relocation of business processes to a foreign country is called offshoring.
one-on-one interview das Einzelgespräch
option die Option (auf), das Vorkaufsrecht
option holder der Optionsinhaber, die Optionsinhaberin
option seller der Optionskäufer, die Optionskäuferin
outsell somebody (v.) höhere Verkaufszahlen als jm. haben
outsourcing die Auslagerung, das Outsourcing (vgl. offshoring)
Definition: Outsourcing refers to an organization contracting work out to a 3rd party, while offshoring refers to getting
work done in a different country, usually to leverage cost advantages. It's possible to outsource work but not offshore
it; for example, hiring an outside law firm to review contracts instead of maintaining an in-house staff of lawyers.
29
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
outsource (v.) auslagern
overall sales der Gesamtabsatz
overstatement die Übertreibung
Example: It is not an overstatement to say that the company’s new software has revolutionized the print and media
world.
owe money to somebody (v.) jm. Geld schulden
owner’s equity das Eigenkapital (vgl. auch equity)
P
paternity leave der Vaterschaftsurlaub
pawnshop, pawnbroker‘s die Pfandleihe
pawnbroker der Pfandleiher, die Pfandleiherin
pay grade die Gehaltsklasse, die Besoldungsklasse, die Besoldungsgruppe
payment confirmation die Zahlungsbestätigung
payment in advance die Vorauszahlung
payment in instalments (Br.)/installments die Ratenzahlung
pay slip der Lohnzettel, die Lohnabrechnung, die Gehaltsabrechnung
pay rise die Lohnerhöhung, die Gehaltserhöhung
penalty (payment) die Sanktion, die Strafe, die Vertragsstrafe, die Geldstrafe
Example: Taxpayers who do not send in their tax return by the deadline will pay a £100 penalty.
per capita income das Pro-Kopf-Einkommen
30
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
performance die Leistung, die Leistungsfähigkeit
perishables die verderbliche Ware
perquisites (short: perks) die (nicht finanziellen) Vergünstigungen, Nebenleistungen
Definition: Privileges granted to employees in addition to their salaries and benefits (such as medial and pension
plans). 'True' perks have little or no cash value or tax implications and may include company car, vacations, reserved
parking space, spacious office, private dining and washroom facilities, etc.
persistence die Ausdauer, die Beharrlichkeit
Example: Lena pursues her goals with persistence and never gives up.
personal assistant (PA) der Assistent, die Assistentin
personnel das Personal, die Belegschaft
Example: The company may consider taking out insurance against the loss of key personnel.
personnel policy die Personalpolitik
piecework pay der Akkordlohn
pittance der Hungerlohn
plaintiff der Kläger, die Klägerin, die Klagepartei
Example: The plaintiff claimed damages for the financial losses suffered through breach of copyright.
postponement die Verschiebung, der Aufschub
postponement of payment der Zahlungsaufschub
precious wertvoll, kostbar
precious metal das Edelmetall
predator das finanzstarke Unternehmen (das kleinere Unternehmen aufkauft)
Definition: A predator is considered to be a financially strong company that eats up another in a merger or acquisition.
The company that does the acquiring — or the predator — is said to have sufficient financial means to bear the risks
associated with the acquisition. Predators are said to be very powerful firms that are financially strong. They are
typically the ones who initiate any merger or acquisition activity. By contrast, those on the other end of the spectrum
— or the ones who are the weaker targets of the predators — are called the prey. That's because they can be easily
snatched up by corporations that are more powerful.
premium die Prämie
31
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
premise die Prämisse, die Voraussetzung
Example: The research project is based on the premise stated earlier.
premises die Räumlichkeiten, das (Firmen)Gelände, die Geschäftsräume
Example: A few years ago the University of Applied Management moved into new premises in Ismaning.
probationary period (also: trial period) die Probezeit
procrastination das Zögern, der Aufschub
Example: Procrastination at work can be defined as putting off work-related action by engaging in nonwork-related
actions during work hours.
product recall die Rückrufaktion
profit and loss statement die Gewinn- und Verlustrechnung
Definition: The profit and loss (P&L) statement is a financial statement that summarizes the revenues, costs, and
expenses incurred during a specified period, usually a fiscal quarter or year. The P&L statement is synonymous with
the income statement. These records provide information about a company's ability or inability to generate profit by
increasing revenue, reducing costs, or both. Some refer to the P&L statement as a statement of profit and loss, income
statement, statement of operations, statement of financial results or income, earnings statement or expense statement.
profiteering die Preistreiberei, der Wucher
promissory note der Schuldschein
Example: I promised to pay the money back by means of a promissory note.
promotion die Beförderung, die Förderung, der Aufstieg
Example: I am working hard in order to get a promotion.
promote (v.) befördern, auch: fördern, unterstützen
Example: I was promoted to head of department yesterday.
proprietor der/die Besitzer/-in, der/die Eigentümer/-in, der/die Inhaber/-in
prosperity der Wohlstand
protectionism der Protektionismus, die Schutzzollpolitik
Example: Protectionism has a broad definition that encompasses a number of different economic policies designed
to restrict trade and boost domestic manufacturing.
32
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
public holiday der gesetzliche Feiertag
Public Relations (PR) (department in a company) die Öffentlichkeitsarbeit
publishing house der Verlag
punitive tariffs (Pl.) die Strafzölle
Definition: Extra tariffs charged on goods going into or out of a country, that is introduced because a country has
done business in an illegal or unfair way.
purchase (v.) kaufen
purchase (n.) der Kauf
bulk puchase der Großeinkauf
compulsory purchase die Enteignung
purchase order die Auftragsbestätigung
purchase power die Kaufkraft
purchaser der Käufer, die Käuferin
Product Development (department in a company) die Produktentwicklung(sabteilung)
Q
quality die Qualität
poor-quality (adj.) minderwertig, schlecht
medium-quality (adj.) von mittlerer Qualität
premium-quality, top-quality (adj.) hochwertig
quality assurance die Qualitätssicherung
quality standard die Qualitätsanforderungen
33
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
R
ratification die Ratifizierung, die Genehmigung
ratify (v.) ratifizieren, bestätigen
Example: The countries involved have already ratified the agreement.
raw materials die Rohstoffe
real estate die Immobilie(n), auch: Grundstück(e)
Example: Julia sells real estate, such as homes and office buildings.
rebound (stocks) (v.) wieder sprungartig ansteigen
receipt der Erhalt, der Eingang, auch: die Quittung, der Kassenbon
Example: The goods must be checked for damages immediately upon receipt.
records management die Aktenverwaltung
recycled materials die wiederverwerteten Materialien
redundancy pay die Abfindung
referee die Referenzperson
Example: A referee is someone who can give us information about you as an employee, for example a previous
employer or a university professor.
refurbishment die Renovierung, die Sanierung, die Modernisierung
Example: After the refurbishment, the company premises looked as good as new.
refurbishment works die Modernisierungsarbeiten
refurbishment project das Sanierungsobjekt, das Sanierungsvorhaben
remaining leave der Resturlaub
34
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
remuneration die Vergütung, der Lohn, das Entgelt
Example: Employers appear to have been slowly adjusting their remuneration polices to reflect changes in labour
demand.
remuneration package das Vergütungspaket
remuneration policy die Vergütungspolitik
resilience die Widerstandsfähigkeit, die Belastbarkeit
Example: Our employees have shown great resilience considering the problems we've had.
resume, résumé der Lebenslauf (üblich in den USA) (vgl. CV)
Definition: A resume is a one- or two-page formal document that job hopefuls submit to hiring managers and em-
ployment recruiters as a means of itemizing their work experience, educational background, and special skills. Suc-
cessful resumes entice potential employers to invite applicants to interview for the position. Resumes are traditionally
accompanied by cover letters, in which applicants champion their relevant skills and tout their specific qualifications
for a given position.
retail der Einzelhandel
retail chain die Ladenkette
retail price der Ladenpreis, der Endverbraucherpreis
retailer der Einzelhändler, die Einzelhändlerin, das Einzelhandelsunternehmen
Example: Retailers have reported that consumer spending fell over the last 12 months.
revenue das Einkommen, die Einnahme, der Ertrag
to generate revenue Erlöse erwirtschaften
rip-off der Nepp, die Abzocke
Example: This convention hotel is so expensive; it is a real rip-off.
risk management das Risikomanagement
round off (v.) abrunden (Preis)
35
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
S
sales (department in a company) der Vertrieb, der Verkauf
sales die Verkäufe
boost sales (v.) die Umsätze in die Höhe treiben
sales have plummeted/slumped die Umsätze sind stark zurückgegangen
sales figures die Verkaufszahlen, die Absatzzahlen
sales manager der Verkaufsleiter, die Verkaufsleiterin
sales pitch das Verkaufsgespräch
sales-promoting (adj.) verkaufsfördernd
sales representative, sales rep der Handelsvertreter, die Handelsvertreterin
saturated (market) gesättigt
scope der Rahmen, der Umfang
scope of duties der Aufgabenbereich
scope of responsibilities der Kompetenzbereich
scrutinize (v.) genau prüfen, untersuchen
seize (v.) beschlagnahmen
Example: The goods that were seized had been hidden in a shipment of paint.
seizure die Beschlagnahme, die Pfändung
Example: The court ordered the seizure of the bankrupt company's assets.
seperability, severability die salvatorische Klausel
36
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
Definition: In law, the terms separability and severability (sometimes known as “salvatorius”, from Latin) refer to a
provision in a contract or piece of legislation which states that if some of the terms are held to be illegal or otherwise
unenforceable, the remainder should still apply.
severance deal, severance pay, severance package die Abfindung
Definition: The compensation and/or benefits an employer provides to an employee after employment is over. Sever-
ance packages may include extended benefits such as health insurance and outplacement assistance to help an
employee secure a new position. Employers offer packages to employees who are laid off, whose jobs are eliminated
because of downsizing, or who retire. Some employees who resign or are fired may also receive a severance package.
shadow economy die Schattenwirtschaft (vgl. underground economy)
share die Aktie
shareholder der Aktionär, die Aktionärin
shop window display die Schaufensterauslage
shortage der Mangel, der Engpass
short-time work die Kurzarbeit
showroom der Ausstellungsraum
sick leave, sick note, sick certificate die Krankschreibung
social market economy die Sozialmarktwirtschaft
social benefits (also: welfare benefits) die Sozialleistungen
Example: Social benefits can include unemployment pay and health insurance.
speculation die Spekulation
speculator der Spekulant
staff das Personal, die Belegschaft
back staff die Hilfskräfte
downsize staff, slash staff (v.) Personal abbauen
upskill staff (v.) die Qualifikation der Mitarbeiter ausbauen
staff outing der Betriebsausflug
37
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
stakeholder der/die Interessenvertreter/-in, der/die Anspruchsberechtigte
Definition: A stakeholder is a party that has an interest in a company and can either affect or be affected by the
business. The primary stakeholders in a typical corporation are its investors, employees, customers and suppliers.
However, the modern theory of the idea goes beyond this original notion to include additional stakeholders such as
a community, government or trade association.
standing order der Dauerauftrag, das Abonnement
starvation wage der Hungerlohn
statutory gesetzlich (vorgeschrieben, festgelegt), satzungsgemäß, auf dem Gesetz beru-
hend
Example: We need to observe the statutory regulations when we start our business.
stipulation die Vereinbarung, die Abmachung, die Bedingung; auch: die (Vertrags)Klausel
stock das Lager, auch: das Inventar
the model is in stock das Modell ist auf Lager
the model is out of stock das Modell ist nicht auf Lager
our stocks are running low unsere Vorräte gehen zu Ende
stock exchange, stock market die Börse
stockholder der Aktionär, die Aktionärin
stocktaking die Inventur (vgl. auch inventory)
to take stock/to stocktake Inventur machen
store of value die Wertanlage
Example: Precious metals are a popular store of value.
strike der Streik
take strike action against a company (v.) eine Firma bestreiken
call off a strike (v.) einen Streik beenden
head off a strike (v.) einen Streik abwenden
38
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
subsidiary die Tochtergesellschaft
subsidies die Subventionen
subsidies policy die Förderpolitik
to cut/to reduce subsidies (v.) Subventionen abbauen
substandard minderwertig
Example: The customer’s complaint was that the substandard material wore out quickly.
substandard goods die Ausschussware
superior der Vorgesetzte, die Vorgesetzte
Example: I have a good working relationship with my direct superior.
supervision die Aufsicht, die Überwachung, die Kontrolle
Example: The German “Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht” (BaFin) is an independent federal institution
and falls under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Finance.
supervisory board der Aufsichtsrat
supplier der Lieferant
supply das Angebot, der Vorrat, die Lieferung
excess supply, oversupply das Überangebot
in supply im Angebot
supply shortfall der Versorgungsengpass
supply chain management das Supply Chain Management
Definition: Supply chain management is the management of the flow of goods and services and includes all processes
that transform raw materials into final products. It involves the active streamlining of a business's supply-side activities
to maximize customer value and gain a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
surveillance die Überwachung, die Aufsicht, die Kontrolle
Example: More and more shops are installing surveillance cameras these days.
survey die Umfrage
39
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
Example: The aim of the institute’s current survey is to study buying habits.
suspend (v.) (zeitweilig) ausschließen, suspendieren, auch: unterbrechen
Example: She was suspended from office due to corruption allegations.
sweatshop der Ausbeuterbetrieb
Definition: Sweatshop is a term for a workplace with very poor, socially unacceptable or illegal working conditions.
The work may be difficult, dangerous, climatically challenging or underpaid. Workers in sweatshops may work long
hours with low pay, regardless of laws mandating overtime pay or a minimum wage; child labor laws may also be
violated.
SWOT analysis die SWOT Analyse, die Stärken-Schwächen Analyse
Definition: A tool that identifies the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats of an organization. Specifically,
it is a basic, straightforward model that assesses what an organization can and cannot do as well as its potential
opportunities and threats.
T
tariff der Tarif
customs tariff der Zolltarif
export tariff der Ausfuhrzoll
import tariff der Einfuhrzoll
punitive tariffs (Pl.) die Strafzölle
tax die Steuer
tax assessment der Steuerbescheid
tax consultant der Steuerberater/die Steuerberaterin
tax evasion der Steuerbetrug, die Steuerhinterziehung
Example: He was arrested in February 2020 on charges of tax evasion and fraud.
tax deduction der Steuerabzug, die Steuervergünstigung
40
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
tax haven das Steuerparadies, die Steueroase
Example: The company is switching its operations to the offshore tax haven of the Dutch Antilles.
tax relief die Steuervergünstigung
Example: Investors are eligible for 20% tax relief provided they do not touch their investments for 5 years.
terms of payment die Zahlungsbedingungen
thrift die Sparsamkeit
Example: Thanks to his thrift he could afford the journey.
thrifty sparsam
time allowed for payment die Zahlungsfrist
title deed (legal doc .) die Eigentumsurkunde
trade, trading (n.) der Handel, die Geschäfte
active trade der lebhafte Handel
arms trade der Waffenhandel
barter trade der Tauschhandel
balanced trade der ausgeglichene Handel
carriage trade die gehobene Kundschaft, auch: das gehobene Segment (Geschäft)
hotel trade das Hotelgewerbe
trade fair die Messe
trade paper die Fachzeitschrift, das Fachblatt
trade school die Berufsschule
trade union (Br.) die Gewerkschaft (vgl. labor union)
Definition: An organization whose membership consists of workers and union leaders, united to protect and promote
their common interests. The principal purposes of a trade union (USA: labor union) are to (1) negotiate wages and
working condition terms, (2) regulate relations between workers (its members) and the employer, (3) take collective
action to enforce the terms of collective bargaining, (4) raise new demands on behalf of its members, and (5) help
41
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
settle their grievances. A trade union may be: (a) A company union that represents interests of only one company and
may not have any connection with other unions.
trade unionist (Br.) der Gewerkschaftler, die Gewerkschaftlerin
trade war der Handelskrieg
trader der Händler, die Händlerin
trading floor das Börsenparkett
trading loss der Betriebsverlust
trading partner der Handelspartner, die Handelspartnerin
trading results das Betriebsergebnis
transaction die Transaktion
transition period, transitional period die Übergangsperiode, die Übergangszeit
Example: The UK left the European Union on 31 January, but that is not the end of the Brexit story. The transition
period is due to last until 31 December 2020. During this period, the UK will remain in both the EU customs union
and single market.
treasurer der Schatzmeister, die Schatzmeisterin
trial period (also: probationary period) die Probezeit
trust das Kartell (vgl. cartel & antitrust law)
Example: The government bans trusts to preserve free competition.
turnover der Umsatz, der Absatz
tycoon der Magnat, auch: Großindustrielle/-r
U
42
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
unique selling proposition (USP) das Alleinstellungsmerkmal
Definition: A unique selling proposition (also: unique selling point) is a factor that differentiates a product from its
competitors, such as the lowest cost, the highest quality or the first-ever product of its kind.
underground economy die Schattenwirtschaft (vgl. shadow economy)
Definition: The underground economy refers to economic transactions that are deemed illegal, either because the
goods or services traded are unlawful in nature, or because transactions fail to comply with governmental reporting
requirements. Alternatively referred to as the shadow economy (see above), the underground economy often comprises
illegal prostitution, untaxed labor, the untaxed sale of physical goods, and the smuggling of goods into a country to
avoid paying duties at the border. Human trafficking operations also comprise the underground economy, as do the
markets for copyrighted materials, endangered animal species, antiquities, and illegally-harvested human organs.
understatement die Untertreibung
Example: "Your company presentation didn't go well? " "That's the understatement of the century. It was a disaster."
unemployment die Arbeitslosigkeit
unemployment benefits das Arbeitslosengeld
unemployment compensation die Arbeitslosenunterstützung
unemployment figures die Arbeitslosenzahlen
unemployment rate die Arbeitslosenquote, die Arbeitslosenrate
unlimited liability die unbeschränkte Haftung
up-to-the-minute topaktuell
upturn der Aufschwung
usury der Wucher
V
vacancy database die Stellendatenbank
valuation die Einschätzung, das Wertgutachten
43
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
value der Wert, der Nutzen, der Betrag
above value über dem Wert
below value unter Wert
good value preiswert
value-added tax (VAT) die Mehrwertssteuer
Definition: A value-added tax is a consumption tax placed on a product whenever value is added at each stage of
the supply chain, from production to the point of sale. The amount of VAT that the user pays is on the cost of the
product, less any of the costs of materials used in the product that have already been taxed.
venture capital das Beteiligungskapital, das Risikokapital
Definition: Venture capital is a form of private equity and a type of financing that investors provide to startup
companies and small businesses that are believed to have long-term growth potential. Venture capital generally comes
from well-off investors, investment banks and any other financial institutions. However, it does not always take a
monetary form; it can also be provided in the form of technical or managerial expertise. Venture capital is typically
allocated to small companies with exceptional growth potential, or to companies that have grown quickly and appear
poised to continue to expand. Though it can be risky for investors who put up funds, the potential for above-average
returns is an attractive payoff. For new companies or ventures that have a limited operating history (under two years),
venture capital funding is increasingly becoming a popular – even essential – source for raising capital, especially if
they lack access to capital markets, bank loans or other debt instruments. The main downside is that the investors
usually get equity in the company, and, thus, a say in company decisions.
volatility die Volatilität, die Unbeständigkeit
Example: Legal and regulatory risks can lead to volatility in business development.
volunteer project das ehrenamtliche Projekt
W
waiver der Verzicht, die Verzichtserklärung
warehouse das Lagerhaus, das Warenlager
Example: The manufacturer stores the finished products in a warehouse.
wares die Waren
44
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
bulky wares die sperrigen Güter
petty wares die Kurzwaren
presentation of wares die Warenpräsentation
sanitary ware die Sanitätsprodukte
warranty die Gewährleistung, die Garantie
Example: The printer I bought comes with a two-year warranty.
warranty period die Gewährleistungsfrist, die Garantiefrist
wastefulness die Verschwendungssucht
wasteful verschwenderisch
welfare die Sozialhilfe
white-collar crime die Wirtschaftskriminalität
Definition: White-collar crime is a nonviolent crime committed for financial gain. Generally, it is characterized by
deceit, concealment, or violation of trust. The motivation for these crimes is to obtain or avoid losing money, property,
or services, or to secure a personal or business advantage. Examples of white-collar crimes include securities fraud,
embezzlement, corporate fraud, and money laundering.
white-collar worker der Büroangestellte, die Büroangestellte
wholesale, wholesaling der Großhandel
Definition: Wholesaling is the sale of merchandise in bulk to a retailer for repackaging and resale in smaller quantities
at a higher price. The buyer of wholesale merchandise sorts, reassembles, and repackages it into smaller quantities
for direct retail sale to consumers. Due to the quantities purchased, the wholesaler can charge less per item. The
retailer sells at a price that reflects the overall cost of doing business.
wholesale price der Großhändlerpreis
wholesale banking das Firmenkundengeschäft (der Banken)
wholesaler der Großhändler
Example: Factory gate prices may be rising, but it is retailers and wholesalers, not consumers, who are shouldering
this burden.
withdrawal (money) die Abhebung
45
Business English
July, 2021 - John Priestley
make a withdrawal (v.) Geld abheben
work council, works committee der Betriebsrat
Definition: An organization that represents a business' employees on a local level. A works council often provides a
useful collective bargaining tool for employees that require an organization that is more familiar with their particular
situation than a national labor union, for example.
work ethic die Arbeitsmoral
workforce die Arbeitskräfte, das Personal
workload das Arbeitspensum, die Arbeitsbelastung
work permit die Arbeitserlaubnis
workplace der Arbeitsplatz
workplace bullying das Mobbing
workplace dispute der Arbeitsplatzkonflikt
workplace environment das Arbeitsumfeld, die Arbeitsplatzumgebung
workplace health promotion die betriebliche Gesundheitsförderung
work placement (Br.) das Praktikum
46