Common Indian Business Phrases
“Kindly revert at the earliest.”
➤ What does "revert" mean in global English?
Reply / respond
“Do one thing…”
➤ What does this phrase usually mean?
Let me give you a suggestion / instruction
“I will do the needful before EOD.”
➤ What does EOD stand for?
End of Day
What tone is typical in Indian business English?
Very polite, formal, respectful
“Please do the needful.”
➤ What does this phrase ask someone to do?
ake the necessary action
“Passing out from college”
➤ What does it mean in Indian English?
Graduating
“We have a doubt about the specs.”
➤ What is “doubt” often used to mean in Indian English?
A question / clarification
“Thanking you” is used at the end of many emails. Is it correct globally?
No, it’s uncommon. Better to say “Thank you” or “Thanks in advance.”
We are preponing the meeting.”
➤ What does "prepone" mean?
Move the meeting to an earlier time
“My boss is out of station.”
➤ What does “out of station” mean?
Not in town / on a trip
“I am coming from the office.”
➤ Why is this phrasing confusing to foreigners?
They may think you are literally walking now, instead of saying ‘I came from the office.’
“With regards” is often used to close emails. What is a more global version?
Best regards / Kind regards
“I will intimate you tomorrow.”
➤ What does "intimate" mean here?
Inform / notify
“I am on leave today.”
➤ What’s a more global way to say it?
I’m off work today
“Please revert back.”
➤ Why is this incorrect globally?
“Revert” already means reply, so “back” is not needed
In Indian English, people often say “Myself Rajesh.” Why is that incorrect?
Correct form: “I’m Rajesh” or “My name is Rajesh.”
“The vehicle is in running condition.”
➤ What does “running condition” mean in global English?
It is working / functional
“My good name is Arjun.”
➤ What is “good name” in international English?
My full or first name is Arjun
“We will discuss the same in tomorrow’s call.”
➤ What does “the same” mean in Indian English?
The same topic / issue we mentioned earlier
Why do Indian professionals use long, indirect sentences in emails?
To sound polite and respectful, even when making requests