The English Language Media Style
Brexit Terminology: The English Language Media Style
I expect you heard the UK became the first member to leave the European Union at the turn of 2021. The official exit date was 29th of March 2017 but the British government were given two years to negotiate an exit deal under Article 50.
It wasn’t a smooth departure by any stretch. As a matter of fact, some of the terms are still clouded in mystery and only a few people seem to understand what is happening.
And when I say “a few”, I’m being optimistic.
If you’ve been following the Brexit saga, you will probably be familiar with some of the terms used in the media. However, because reports are often written using business English, the terminology may not always make sense.
Business English is not always specific. Nor is the British media. In an attempt to be witty, the British press has a habit of creating buzz words by severing two words and stitching them back together.
Buzz words can, therefore, be difficult for non-English speakers to understand. They are typically adopted in professional environments.
You will probably have already come across buzz words and, by now understand the meaning. Brexit is the obvious example; a combination of Britain and exit.
How about “Regrexit”. This is a combination of “regret” and “exit” and refers to the term adopted when British voters realised they’d “dropped a clanger” – an expression used when you make a big mistake.
Remoaner is one of my favourites. It blends the words “remainer” with “moan” or moaner. Moaning is a trait the British are known for.
Remoaners are the voters that chose to remain and subsequently complain about the majority that voted leave. They called for a revote when some leavers realised they made an error and wanted to change their vote.
Business English Words You May Need To Know
Britain’s departure from the EU means business professionals in Vienna may have to brush up on their business English.
One of the conditions in the fallout of Brexit may involve dealing directly with the British tax department – Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC).
Hard Brexit
A complicated version of the UK’s withdrawal would end freedom of movement and the ability of citizens of the EU and UK to live, study, and work freely in each other’s countries.
A hard Brexit would also mean a hard border – a physical border controlled and protected by customs authorities.
Governance
Political rules that intend to resolve conflicts between two or more parties involved in a business contract. Governance is supposed to ensure institutions function legitimately.
Tariff
A tariff is another word meaning the fee imposed by a country to import goods. You will see tariff mentioned in documents relating to customs and excise.
Level Playing Field
A business English term used to express the right for all types of businesses – players – to be given a fair and equal opportunity in the market.
Free Trade v Restricted Trade
Free trade permits countries to trade with one another without imposing tariff for importing goods. Restricted trade is the opposite. This term is used to express tax restrictions on cross-border trading for goods and services.
Business English Course in Vienna
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