Examples

1.take the initiative 采取主动

We should take the initiative in pushing the sale of new products.

2.bridge the gap 缩小差距

Although there is a wide gap between our offer and your bid,we shall find one way or another to bridge the gap.

3.set the ball rolling 开始，使……行动起来

We are prepared to allow you a special discount of 3% in order to set the ball rolling.

4.I’m afraid，though，that...尽管如此，我恐怕……

A:You know,there is a ready market for Chinese bicycles at your end.

B:I’m afraid,though,the actual situation is not quite like that.Because Chinese bicycles have to face keen competition from other countries such as Japan,Germany,the US etc.

5.The ball is with you.现在就看你的了。

Since we have already made considerable concessions in our prices,the ball is with you now.

6.take another step down 再行降低（价格）

Although you’ve cut your prices,they are still not in line with the prevailing market.You have to take another step down,I’m afraid.

7.cannot stand 经受不了

Glassware cannot stand rough handling.

8.We’ve no alternative but to...我们别无他法，只好……

Since you decline to advance the time of shipment,we have no alternative but to accept September delivery.

9.come to a successful conclusion 成功地达成交易

I’m very glad that through our mutual efforts,our negotiation has come to a successful conclusion.

10.make this an exception 这次作为例外

We’ve agreed to your request for a 3% discount on your present order.We made this an exception with an eye to future business.

11.with an eye to...着眼于……

We’ve made an exception and accepted your bid with an eye to the promotion of friendship as well as business.

12.There will be no occasion for...没有理由，没有必要……

We’ll ship the goods on time.There will be no occasion to extend (for an extension of)the time of shipment.