English is a global language that is used for communication in various fields and contexts. However, not all English is the same. Depending on the purpose and audience, there are different types of English that have different features and characteristics. Two of the most common types are general English and business English. In this article, we will explore the differences between these two types of English and how they can affect your communication skills.

What is general English?

General English is the type of English that we learn in school and use for everyday conversations. It covers a wide range of topics and situations that are common in everyday life, such as family, friends, hobbies, travel, health, etc. General English is more basic and general than business English, as it does not require a deep knowledge of vocabulary, grammar, and communication skills that are specific to the business context. General English is more informal, casual, and expressive than business English, as it uses more slang, idioms, and colloquialisms that reflect the speaker’s personality and emotions. General English also allows more flexibility and variation in pronunciation and accent, as it reflects the speaker’s origin and identity. General English does not have a strict or formal way of giving or receiving feedback and evaluation, as it provides subjective and personal feedback and evaluation based on general impressions and feelings.

What is business English?

Business English is a form of English that is used for specific purposes related to business and industry. It covers different fields and sectors, such as finance, marketing, management, etc. Business English is more advanced and specialized than general English, as it requires a deeper knowledge of vocabulary, grammar, and communication skills that are relevant to the business context. Business English is more formal, polite, and concise than general English, as it avoids slang, idioms, and colloquialisms that might be confusing or inappropriate for the business context. Business English also requires a clear and accurate pronunciation and a neutral or standard accent that can be easily understood by people from different countries and regions. Business English expects a high level of performance and quality from the speakers and writers, as it provides constructive and objective feedback and evaluation based on specific criteria and standards.

What are the differences between general English and business English?

There are several differences between general English and business English in terms of vocabulary, grammar, tone, style, and purpose.

- Vocabulary: General English uses a broad and basic vocabulary that is suitable for any topic or situation. Business English uses a specialized and advanced vocabulary that is specific to certain fields or domains. For example, general English words like "buy", "sell", "money", or "company" can be replaced by business English words like "purchase", "trade", "revenue", or "corporation".

- Grammar: General English uses simple and common grammatical structures that are easy to understand and produce. Business English uses complex and varied grammatical structures that are more precise and sophisticated. For example, general English sentences like "I like this product" or "We can do it" can be transformed into business English sentences like "This product meets our requirements" or "We have the capacity to deliver it".

- Tone: General English uses an informal and casual tone that reflects your personality and emotions. Business English uses a formal and polite tone that shows your respect and professionalism. For example, general English expressions like "Hi", "Thanks", or "See you" can be changed into business English expressions like "Dear", "Thank you", or "Best regards".

- Style: General English uses a flexible and creative style that allows you to use idioms, slang, jokes, or metaphors. Business English uses a concise and direct style that avoids ambiguity or misunderstanding. For example, general English phrases like "It's raining cats and dogs" or "He's a big cheese" can be replaced by business English phrases like "It's raining heavily" or "He's an important person".

- Purpose: General English has a general purpose that is to communicate with anyone about anything. Business English has a specific purpose that is to communicate with professionals about business matters. For example, general English questions like "How are you?" or "What do you do?" can be modified into business English questions like "How is the project going?" or "What are your responsibilities?"

Why is it important to know the differences between general English and business English?

Knowing the differences between general English and business English can help you improve your communication skills in different contexts and situations. By choosing the appropriate type of English for your purpose and audience, you can achieve your goals more effectively and efficiently.

For example, if you want to make friends with someone from another country, you should use general English to show your interest and friendliness. If you want to make a deal with someone from another company, you should use business English to show your competence and confidence.

How can you learn the differences between general English and business English?

There are many ways to learn the differences between general English and business English. You can:

- Read books, articles, blogs, or magazines that are written in general or business English.

- Watch movies, shows, videos, or podcasts that are spoken in general or business English.

- Listen to songs, music, or radio that are sung or broadcasted in general or business English.

- Speak with native speakers or learners who use general or business English.

- Write emails, letters, essays, or reports that are composed in general or business English.

- Take courses or classes that teach general or business English.

Conclusion

General English and business English are two types of English that have different features and characteristics. They differ in vocabulary, grammar, tone, style, and purpose. Knowing the differences between them can help you communicate better in various fields and contexts. You can learn the differences between them by using different sources and methods. By mastering both types of English, you can expand your horizons and opportunities.