When traveling for business, you will often either have a translator or be out with someone who can translate for you. But speaking a few words or phrases in the language of your host country can do a world of good in breaking down communication barriers and improving the impression your colleagues have of you.
If you’re out for a business dinner abroad, try some of these phrases:
Japanese
ご一緒にお仕事をするのを楽しみにしています。Goissho ni oshigoto o suruno o tanoshimi ni shite imasu.
I’m looking forward to working with you.
～は何と言いますか。…wa nan to iimasu ka.
How do you say . . . ?
どうぞ。/ありがとうございます。 Doozo./Arigatoo gozaimasu.
Please./Thank you.
何が食べたいですか。Nani ga tabetai desu ka.
What do you want to eat?
注文しましょう。Chuumonshimashoo.
Let’s order.
Chinese
很高兴终于见到你了。Hěn gāoxìng zhōngyú jiàn dào nǐ le.
It’s a pleasure to finally meet you.
请。/谢谢。 Qǐng./Xièxie.
Please./Thank you.
你怎么说…? Nǐ zěnme shuō . . .?
How do you say…?
我想再要一碗米饭。Wǒ xiǎng zài yào yì wǎn mǐfàn.
I would like to have another bowl of rice.
请你结帐。Qǐng nǐ jiézhàng.
May I have the check?
Spanish
Tengo ganas de trabajar con usted pronto.
I’m looking forward to working with you.
Por favor./Gracias.
Thank you.
¿Cómo se dice … ?
How do you say…?
¿Qué me recomienda?
What do you recommend?
¿Me podría traer la cuenta, por favor?
Could you please bring me the check?
Portuguese
É um prazer onhecê-lo (mas.) / conhecê-la (fem.) finalmente.
It’s a pleasure to finally meet you.
Por favor./ Obrigado (mas.) or Obrigada (fem.)
Please./ Thank you.
Como se diz . . .?
How do you say…?
Parece muito bom.
It all sounds great.
O serviço está incluído?
Is the tip included?
Want to learn more business vocabulary for your dealings and negotiations abroad? Learn more about our Business Courses here.