The Common 'Corporate Speak' Phrases You Need to Ditch Right Now

We’ve all been there: you’re reading an email or sitting in a meeting, and someone starts throwing around phrases like “synergize our efforts” or “circle back on this action item.” It’s almost like they’re speaking a different language—one that makes simple ideas seem overly complex. This kind of language, often called “corporate speak,” is so common that we hardly notice it anymore. But the truth is, it’s a communication killer.

In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of the most overused corporate phrases, explain why they can undermine your message, and offer simple, effective alternatives. Whether you’re a lawyer, banker, or consultant, getting rid of these phrases will make your writing clearer and your communication more impactful.

1. "Circle Back"

What It Means: To revisit a topic or follow up on a task.

Why You Should Ditch It: It’s vague and can be easily misinterpreted, leaving people unsure of what’s expected.

Say Instead: “I’ll follow up on this next week” or “Let’s discuss this again on Friday.”

2. "Take This Offline"

What It Means: To continue a discussion privately or at a later time.

Why You Should Ditch It: It’s become a cliché and can come across as dismissive or evasive.

Say Instead: “Let’s schedule a separate meeting to discuss this further” or “I’ll connect with you directly to go over this.”

3. "Low-Hanging Fruit"

What It Means: Tasks or opportunities that are easy to achieve.

Why You Should Ditch It: It’s overused and can make people feel like their contributions are trivial.

Say Instead: “Let’s focus on the quick wins” or “Let’s start with the easiest tasks.”

4. "Leverage"

What It Means: To use something to maximum advantage.

Why You Should Ditch It: It sounds like jargon, and there’s almost always a simpler way to get your point across.

Say Instead: “Use” or “make the most of.” For example, instead of saying, “We’ll leverage our resources,” try “We’ll use our resources effectively.”

5. "Touch Base"

What It Means: To get in contact or check in with someone.

Why You Should Ditch It: It’s informal, cliché, and doesn’t convey a clear action or timeframe.

Say Instead: “I’ll call you tomorrow” or “Let’s meet to discuss this.”

6. "Move the Needle"

What It Means: To make a significant impact or progress.

Why You Should Ditch It: It’s vague and doesn’t specify how progress will be measured.

Say Instead: “Achieve meaningful progress” or “Make a significant improvement.”

7. "Bandwidth"

What It Means: Capacity to take on more work or responsibilities.

Why You Should Ditch It: It’s jargon that sounds impersonal, especially when talking about workload.

Say Instead: “Time” or “capacity.” For example, “I don’t have the bandwidth” could be “I don’t have the time right now.”

Why Clear Language Matters

Corporate speak may feel familiar, but it often gets in the way of clear communication. Overcomplicated language can obscure your message, create misunderstandings, and leave your audience feeling disconnected. When you communicate clearly, you’re more likely to build trust, motivate your team, and get your point across effectively.

If you’re a lawyer, banker, or consultant, refining your communication skills is crucial. Clear, direct language isn’t just easier to understand—it also demonstrates confidence and respect for your reader’s time.

Take Your Writing to the Next Level

Ready to ditch the jargon and communicate with impact? Our Power Writing course is designed to help professionals like you cut through the noise and write with clarity and precision. Learn more at powerwriting.co and start transforming the way you communicate today.

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