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[Mastering Natural Business English: Insights from the Golden Globes]-[BE 246: That Tracks! Two Business English Phrases From the Golden Globes]

Business English from All Ears English · B1 · 2024-04-23

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📋 Summary

Decoding Natural Business English: Insights from the Golden Globes

In episode 246 of the Business English Podcast, hosts Lindsay and Aubrey explore two idiomatic expressions highlighted by a listener, Ilse, who encountered them during Robert Downey Jr.'s Golden Globes acceptance speech. These phrases—"does that track?" and "not such a leap"—are quintessential examples of how native speakers blend logic and casual conversation in professional settings.

1. "Does That Track?"

This phrase is a direct, idiomatic way of asking, "Does that make sense?" or "Is this consistent with expectations?" Aubrey explains that native speakers often blend the words, leading to phonetic shifts where "does that" might sound like "is that" to non-native ears.

In a business context, "does that track" serves as a perfect "gut check." For example, when reviewing financial data or project timelines, one might ask, "These numbers are so much higher than last quarter—does that track?" This implies an investigation into whether the data is accurate or if there is a logical error. It is a sophisticated way to question the validity of information without sounding overly aggressive or formal.

2. "Not Such a Leap"

Often described as a "leap in logic," this phrase is used to describe something that is unsurprising or intuitive. If a conclusion follows naturally from the evidence, it is "not such a leap."

Robert Downey Jr. used this expression to explain why his film, Oppenheimer, was so financially successful, attributing it to the immense talent involved. By saying it is "not such a leap," he suggests the success was logical and self-explanatory. This phrase is highly effective in professional presentations or meetings when you want to emphasize that your conclusions are well-founded and foreseeable based on the provided data.

The Importance of "Connection, Not Perfection"

Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize the philosophy of "connection, not perfection." Learning these specific "chunks" of language allows professionals to sound more natural and fluent. Using these expressions—which essentially mean the same thing but offer variety—makes communication more engaging and witty.

Key Takeaways for Global Professionals:

  • Active Listening: Like the listener Ilse, professionals should immerse themselves in English media (podcasts, award shows, films) to identify real-world language usage.
  • Logical Articulation: Phrases like "does that track" are excellent tools for articulating logic. They demonstrate critical thinking and a commitment to accuracy.
  • Avoiding AI Errors: The hosts warn against relying solely on AI transcripts, which often misinterpret blended sounds like "does that" into "is that." Human-reviewed transcripts ensure you learn the actual language used by native speakers.

By integrating these phrases into your business vocabulary, you can move away from "stiff, scripted English" and toward a more fluid, conversational style that fosters better professional relationships and clear communication.

🎯Key Sentences

1
I rarely watch those award shows.
2
They're so long and I sometimes will catch the highlights the next day.
3
I didn't realize it was on tonight.
4
We want to stay connected to you.
5
Does that track?
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📝Key Phrases

1
does that track
2
not such a leap
3
make a point
4
dropped off
5
game changer
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📖 Transcript

This is the Business English Podcast, Episode 246.
That tracks two business English phrases from the Golden Globes.
Welcome to the Business English podcast from All Ears English.
Get the English skills you need to achieve your dreams in global business.
For a presentation, a meeting, or your office party, this is Real Business English with your favorite American hosts, Lindsay and Aubrey, coming to you from Arizona and Colorado, USA.
Still translating in your head when you speak English?

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