Professional Communication Terms

noun the quality of being suitable, proper, or fitting for a particular situation or purpose

• The appropriateness of the candidate's qualifications will be carefully considered by the selection committee.
• We should discuss the appropriateness of wearing jeans to the wedding.
• I questioned the appropriateness of his choice in music at the party.
• The appropriateness of her response was like a perfectly fitting puzzle piece in the conversation.

verb to have discussions, exchange opinions, or make decisions with others; to give an honor or academic degree to someone

• The committee will confer with experts before making a decision.
• Let's confer with the team before finalizing our plans.
• I need to confer with my crew before we proceed.
• Nature and nurture confer to shape a person's development.

verb to trust someone with private or secret information

• She felt comfortable enough to confide in her therapist about her deepest fears.
• I know I can confide in you when I need to talk about something serious.
• I can always confide in my best friend, she never judges me.
• The old tree seemed to whisper secrets to those who would confide in its shade.

noun a general agreement among a group of people

• After much discussion, the committee finally reached a consensus on the new policy.
• We all agreed on the movie choice, so it was a consensus to watch that one.
• The group was totally on the same page about the plan, it was a consensus.
• In the world of fashion, there is a consensus that less is more.

noun the customary code of polite behavior in society or among members of a particular profession or group

• It is important to follow proper etiquette when attending a formal dinner.
• She doesn't care much about etiquette, she just does whatever she wants.
• I can't believe he has no etiquette at all, he's so rude.
• In the world of business, etiquette can be seen as a form of currency.

noun a spoken or written comment expressing an opinion or reaction

• The professor made a remark about the importance of citing sources in academic writing.
• She couldn't help but remark on how cute the puppy was.
• I overheard him make a remark about the new girl's outfit.
• His success in the competition was a remarkable achievement.

noun a feeling or expression of gratitude

verb to express gratitude or appreciation

• I would like to extend my sincerest thanks for your generous donation.
• Thanks a lot for helping me out with the project.
• Big thank you for covering my shift at work, you're a lifesaver!
• Her smile was like a warm thank you that brightened up my day.

verb to incline or bend towards something

adverb in a manner that involves inclining or bending towards something

• In order to show interest and engage with the speaker, it is important to lean in during the conversation.
• If you want to hear better, just lean in a bit closer.
• Yo, lean in when I'm dropping some knowledge on you!
• Sometimes you just have to lean in and take a risk in order to succeed.