Having a good grasp of the English language can help you impress your colleagues, boost your performance, and gain confidence at work. And one simple way to develop your communication skills is by building a good vocabulary.

Regardless of your industry, there are a number of key vocabulary words that are commonly and universally used in any workplace. Learning these words will help you communicate more effectively and can prevent any miscommunications, as well as help you get your work done more efficiently.

1. Estimate (noun)

As a noun, an estimate refers to a general idea the size, cost, or value of something based on a rough calculation. This word can also be used as a verb.

Sample sentence:
Can you give me an estimate of the shipping fee for my package?

2. Organize (verb)

To organize means to arrange in a systematic, orderly manner.

Sample sentence:
The team needs to organize their reports before sending them to the manager.

3. Strategy (noun)

In a business context, a strategy refers to a carefully thought-out plan to achieve a specific goal.

Sample sentence:
We’ve developed a number of strategies to boost sales over the summer.

4. Guarantee (verb)

To guarantee something is to provide some kind of assurance regarding the quality of a product or service. This is usually done in written form.

Sample sentence:
The restaurant guarantees that your order will arrive in 30 minutes or less.

5. Penalty (noun)

A penalty is an official punishment given for breaking a rule, law, or contract. For employees, it can come in the form of a warning, payment, or a demotion in rank.

Sample sentence:
Employees who miss work for 10 consecutive days are given a penalty by HR.

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