Work and business / B2

ni-GOHSH-ee-ayt/nɪˈɡəʊʃieɪt/

To negotiate is to discuss in order to reach an agreement: negotiate a deal, negotiate with management, negotiate a ceasefire. Bargain is more about price in a market; discuss is wider and need not aim at a contract. Negotiation is the noun. In speech, talk it through / come to an agreement is enough. Do not use negotiate for a private chat with no deal at stake, and do not confuse it with navigate (find your way).

Meaning

To discuss something in order to reach an agreement.

Examples

• “The union is negotiating a new pay deal with management.”
• “The union is negotiating a shorter week, not only a one-off bonus.”
• “Hostages were released after officials negotiated with the captors, which is the crisis sense.”

Good to know

negotiate a deal / with someone. Noun: negotiation(s). Everyday: come to an agreement. Mix-up: navigate. There must be a deal at stake.

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