Negotiation Definition, Examples & Usage Tips

Meaning 1：formal discussion (negotiation)

negotiation 🔊

/nɪˌɡoʊʃiˈeɪʃən/

A discussion between people to make or change an agreement.

Negotiation scene with two professionals discussing at a conference table

formal discussion 🔊

➕

/ˈfɔːrməl dɪˈskʌʃən/

A formal discussion between parties aimed at reaching an agreement or resolving a dispute.

📁 Category：Social Economy 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Latin negotiatio: neg- (not) + otium (leisure) → busy business.

💡 Mnemonic

Think 'go-to-say-shun' – you go to say something to reach a decision.

📖 Example

During the business meeting, the managers engaged in a long negotiation to set the new project's budget. 🔊 During the business meeting, the managers engaged in a long negotiation to set the new project's budget.

🔗 Collocations

negotiation skills – abilities to conduct effective discussions

negotiation table – the place where parties discuss terms

negotiation process – the series of steps in reaching an agreement

🔄 Synonyms

bargaining (n.) – the process of negotiating terms, especially over price

discussion (n.) – a detailed conversation about something

mediation (n.) – intervention to resolve disputes between parties

🚫 Antonyms

dictation (n.) – imposing terms without discussion

ultimatum (n.) – a final demand that rejects further negotiation

🌱 Derivatives

negotiate (v.) – to try to reach an agreement through discussion

negotiator (n.) – a person who conducts negotiations

negotiable (adj.) – able to be discussed or changed

📖 Cultural Story

In ancient Rome, negotium meant business, as merchants had no leisure. Today, negotiation is key in diplomacy and commerce.