English discussion questions: Meetings

Are ice-breakers necessary before meetings? Why / Why not?
What do you enjoy about having meetings?
Is there anything you dislike about having meetings?
What can we do to ensure that meetings are productive?
“The longer the meeting, the less is accomplished.” Do you agree or disagree with this quote? Why?

English vocabulary: Meetings

Try using these words to express yourself naturally in English conversations about meetings.

(Noun) An activity to make people feel comfortable at the start of a meeting.

Example: We started with a short ice-breaker in which everyone introduced themselves.
(Noun) A list of topics to be discussed in a meeting.

Example: There are 3 items on the agenda for today’s meeting.
(Noun) Working together to achieve a goal.

Example: Collaboration is important when we work on big projects.
(Noun) Things that stop or break the flow of a meeting.

Example: It is hard to concentrate when there are too many interruptions.
(Noun) Doing something without wasting time or effort.

Example: Efficiency is important if we want to keep meetings short.

Try using these English idioms to make your spoken English more natural when you talk about meetings.

To start an activity or meeting.

Example: An ice-breaker can help get the ball rolling at the start of a meeting.
To agree and understand something the same way.

Example: Meetings are useful to make sure everyone is on the same page.
To avoid talking about the main point.

Example: I like to decide things quickly. I don’t like it when people beat around the bush.
Something that is not useful or productive.

Example: Meetings without a clear agenda are often a waste of time.
To get directly to the important part.

Example: We don’t have much time today, so let’s cut to the chase.