Intermediate200 min
How to … maintain and end a discussion
We can use a number of different phrases in order to maintain a discussion or bring it to an end. When we want to maintain a discussion, we use phrases to agree or disagree with what other people have said. When we want to end a discussion, we often use a phrase to summarise the discussion.
Expressing an opinion
We can use different phrases to express opinions in slightly different ways.
Frankly, I think the idea of never going on holiday is crazy! (This is a strong and definite opinion.)
As I see it, the time to enjoy yourself is when you’re young. (This is my personal opinion, but I understand
that others might not agree.)
I dare say I could save a small amount of money each month. (I accept that this is true, but it is not a strong opinion.)
It seems to me that it’s more important to use the money you earn to have fun. (This is my personal opinion, based on my experience.)
Agreeing
We can use different phrases to express agreement in slightly different ways.
‘I’m hopeless at saving money.’ ‘That makes two of us.’ (Exactly the same is true for me.)
I can definitely see what Mia is saying. She’s got a good point. (I can understand Mia’s point of view, although I don’t necessarily agree with it strongly.)
Yes, I can see what you’re saying. That makes sense. (I can understand your point of view, although I don’t necessarily agree with it strongly.)
I’m with Tom here. You need to plan for the future. (I completely agree with Tom.)
Disagreeing
When we disagree with someone’s opinion, we often express recognition of their opinion or point of view first, before we present a different opinion or point of view.
Yes, I probably waste quite a lot of money. But the other side of the coin is that I work hard and don’t want to
spend all my free time worrying about money!
I guess that’s one way of looking at it, but on the other hand, you might actually enjoy travelling more when you’re a bit older.
Yes, we all want to have fun. But another way of looking at things is that you can actually have more fun, and for longer, if you save money when you’re young.
Summarising and ending a discussion
We often summarise at the end of a discussion, and comment on how much we have enjoyed the discussion, and how similar or different our opinions are.
Well, it’s been great talking to you about this.
It’s surprising. We seem to have quite similar ideas.
I don’t think we’ll ever agree. But I guess we’re all diff erent.
Expressing an opinion
We can use different phrases to express opinions in slightly different ways.
Frankly, I think the idea of never going on holiday is crazy! (This is a strong and definite opinion.)
As I see it, the time to enjoy yourself is when you’re young. (This is my personal opinion, but I understand
that others might not agree.)
I dare say I could save a small amount of money each month. (I accept that this is true, but it is not a strong opinion.)
It seems to me that it’s more important to use the money you earn to have fun. (This is my personal opinion, based on my experience.)
Agreeing
We can use different phrases to express agreement in slightly different ways.
‘I’m hopeless at saving money.’ ‘That makes two of us.’ (Exactly the same is true for me.)
I can definitely see what Mia is saying. She’s got a good point. (I can understand Mia’s point of view, although I don’t necessarily agree with it strongly.)
Yes, I can see what you’re saying. That makes sense. (I can understand your point of view, although I don’t necessarily agree with it strongly.)
I’m with Tom here. You need to plan for the future. (I completely agree with Tom.)
Disagreeing
When we disagree with someone’s opinion, we often express recognition of their opinion or point of view first, before we present a different opinion or point of view.
Yes, I probably waste quite a lot of money. But the other side of the coin is that I work hard and don’t want to
spend all my free time worrying about money!
I guess that’s one way of looking at it, but on the other hand, you might actually enjoy travelling more when you’re a bit older.
Yes, we all want to have fun. But another way of looking at things is that you can actually have more fun, and for longer, if you save money when you’re young.
Summarising and ending a discussion
We often summarise at the end of a discussion, and comment on how much we have enjoyed the discussion, and how similar or different our opinions are.
Well, it’s been great talking to you about this.
It’s surprising. We seem to have quite similar ideas.
I don’t think we’ll ever agree. But I guess we’re all diff erent.
Quiz
Question 1 of 10
Which phrase can you use to agree with someone during a discussion?
I completely agree.
I don't know.
Maybe later.
Brand Wars: The Ultimate Battle for Consumer Hearts and Minds
Brand wars have become the defining characteristic of modern capitalism, transforming ordinary business competition into epic battles that capture public imagination and reshape entire industries. These aren't just commercial rivalries – they're cultural phenomena that get under the skin of consumers, forcing them to pick sides and wear their brand loyalty like a badge of honor. From the legendary Cola Wars between Coca-Cola and Pepsi to the smartphone showdowns between Apple and Samsung, these corporate gladiators have turned marketing into an art form, spending billions to win over hearts, minds, and wallets.
The psychology behind brand wars runs deeper than most people realize. When consumers choose between competing brands, they're not just buying products – they're buying into identities, lifestyles, and tribal affiliations that define who they are and where they belong in society. Recent research shows that brand loyalty will decline 25% in 2025, yet paradoxically, consumers are becoming more emotionally invested in the brands they do choose. This creates a fascinating contradiction where fewer people remain loyal, but those who do become more passionate advocates, turning brand preference into something resembling religious devotion.
The stakes in today's brand wars have never been higher. Global studies reveal that there is fierce competition among companies to secure large market shares, with businesses essentially waging war over price, loyalty, attraction, and consumer mindset. In this cutthroat environment, brands must pull out all the stops to differentiate themselves when competitors offer similar products with comparable attributes. The winners walk away with market dominance and consumer mindshare, while the losers find themselves fighting an uphill battle for relevance.
The Cola Wars remain the gold standard for how brand rivalries can transcend their original industries to become cultural touchstones. Coca-Cola and Pepsi have been locked in combat for over a century, each deploying increasingly sophisticated weapons in their arsenal of marketing tactics. Coca-Cola built its empire on classical Americana, positioning itself as the wholesome choice that embodied traditional values and nostalgic comfort. Their "Pause that Refreshes" campaign became synonymous with taking a break from life's pressures, while their World War II marketing positioned Coke as a symbol of home for soldiers fighting abroad.
Pepsi, meanwhile, embraced its underdog status and turned it into a competitive advantage. Rather than going head-to-head with Coke's traditional messaging, Pepsi positioned itself as the choice of the next generation – younger, hipper, and more in tune with contemporary culture. Their famous "Pepsi Generation" campaigns didn't just sell cola; they sold rebellion against the establishment, making choosing Pepsi an act of youthful defiance. This challenger brand mentality allowed Pepsi to carve out its own territory while still nipping at Coke's heels.
The beauty of the Cola Wars lies in how both brands have managed to stay relevant across multiple generations by constantly reinventing their battlefield tactics. When traditional advertising began losing its punch, both companies pivoted to celebrity endorsements, sponsorship deals, and experiential marketing. Pepsi brought in pop culture icons like Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, and Beyoncé, while Coca-Cola focused on universal themes of happiness and togetherness that transcended individual celebrities.
The smartphone sector has witnessed equally dramatic brand wars, with Apple and Samsung trading blows in courtrooms and marketplaces around the globe. Apple built its reputation on sleek design, intuitive user experience, and an ecosystem that keeps customers coming back for more. Their marketing strategy banks on emotional storytelling and aspirational lifestyle branding that makes owning an iPhone feel like joining an exclusive club. Samsung, conversely, has positioned itself as the innovation leader, constantly pushing the envelope with cutting-edge features and technology that makes Apple look conservative by comparison.
These tech titans have mastered the art of turning product launches into cultural events that generate massive media coverage and consumer buzz. Apple's keynote presentations have become theatrical spectacles that treat new features like revolutionary breakthroughs, while Samsung's response campaigns often focus on highlighting capabilities that Apple devices lack. The result is a perpetual cycle of one-upmanship that keeps both brands in the spotlight and drives consumer interest across the entire category.
The digital age has completely changed the rules of engagement for brand wars. Social media platforms have become the primary battlegrounds where brands can engage in real-time combat, responding to competitor moves within hours rather than months. Meme marketing has emerged as a powerful weapon, with brands like Coca-Cola using humor and relatable content to connect with younger audiences while subtly undermining their competitors' messaging.
The rise of influencer marketing has added another dimension to modern brand wars. Rather than relying solely on traditional advertising, brands now deploy armies of content creators and social media personalities to fight their battles on multiple fronts. Pepsi has embraced this strategy by partnering with influencers who resonate with their target demographic, creating authentic-feeling content that connects on a personal level. Meanwhile, Coca-Cola has focused on working with global musicians and cultural icons who embody their brand values of optimism and inclusivity.
Consumer behavior research reveals fascinating insights about how brand wars actually influence purchasing decisions. Studies show that 58% of consumers now prefer products and brands that support local economies, reflecting a shift toward community-oriented purchasing that challenges traditional global brand dominance. This trend has forced multinational corporations to rethink their strategies and find ways to appear more locally relevant while maintaining their global scale advantages.
The emotional component of brand wars cannot be overstated. When brands successfully tap into consumers' deepest desires and aspirations, they create psychological bonds that transcend rational decision-making. Successful brands understand that they're not just selling products – they're selling dreams, identities, and ways of life that consumers want to embrace. This emotional warfare requires brands to constantly monitor cultural trends and social movements, ensuring their messaging remains relevant and resonant with evolving consumer values.
Price wars represent one of the most dangerous aspects of brand competition, where companies engage in a race to the bottom that can destroy industry profitability. However, smart brands have learned to compete on value rather than price alone, using sophisticated revenue management and AI-driven pricing strategies to optimize their market position. Companies now deploy advanced analytics to predict competitor responses and scenario-plan their moves before launching new initiatives.
The sustainability battleground has emerged as a crucial front in modern brand wars. With 72% of consumers actively participating in the circular economy through recycling and reusing products, brands must demonstrate genuine environmental commitment or risk being labeled as greenwashers. This has led to fascinating competitions over who can achieve the most ambitious sustainability goals, with companies like Coca-Cola pledging to make 100% of their packaging recyclable while simultaneously trying to outdo their competitors' environmental initiatives.
The future of brand wars will likely be shaped by emerging technologies and changing consumer expectations. Artificial intelligence is already enabling more sophisticated competitive intelligence gathering and real-time response capabilities, while virtual and augmented reality are creating new arenas for brand combat. As the metaverse develops, we can expect to see brands fighting for virtual real estate and digital mindshare in ways that we're only beginning to imagine.
The globalization of brand wars has created interesting dynamics where local preferences clash with international brand strategies. Recent data shows that 42% of European consumers report having a worse perception of American brands, suggesting that cultural and political factors are increasingly influencing brand preferences. This trend is forcing global brands to develop more nuanced approaches that respect local sensitivities while maintaining consistent global messaging.
Looking ahead, the most successful brand warriors will be those who master the delicate balance between aggressive competition and authentic consumer value creation. The days of purely marketing-driven brand wars may be numbered, as consumers become more sophisticated and demand substance behind the sizzle. Brands that can combine compelling storytelling with genuine innovation and social responsibility will likely emerge as the victors in tomorrow's marketplace battles.
The ultimate lesson from decades of brand wars is that competition drives innovation, creativity, and consumer value in ways that monopolistic markets never could. While the battles can sometimes seem petty or overblown, they force companies to constantly improve their offerings and find new ways to delight customers. In this sense, brand wars represent capitalism at its finest – turning rivalry into a force for progress that benefits everyone involved, from shareholders to consumers to society at large.
The psychology behind brand wars runs deeper than most people realize. When consumers choose between competing brands, they're not just buying products – they're buying into identities, lifestyles, and tribal affiliations that define who they are and where they belong in society. Recent research shows that brand loyalty will decline 25% in 2025, yet paradoxically, consumers are becoming more emotionally invested in the brands they do choose. This creates a fascinating contradiction where fewer people remain loyal, but those who do become more passionate advocates, turning brand preference into something resembling religious devotion.
The stakes in today's brand wars have never been higher. Global studies reveal that there is fierce competition among companies to secure large market shares, with businesses essentially waging war over price, loyalty, attraction, and consumer mindset. In this cutthroat environment, brands must pull out all the stops to differentiate themselves when competitors offer similar products with comparable attributes. The winners walk away with market dominance and consumer mindshare, while the losers find themselves fighting an uphill battle for relevance.
The Cola Wars remain the gold standard for how brand rivalries can transcend their original industries to become cultural touchstones. Coca-Cola and Pepsi have been locked in combat for over a century, each deploying increasingly sophisticated weapons in their arsenal of marketing tactics. Coca-Cola built its empire on classical Americana, positioning itself as the wholesome choice that embodied traditional values and nostalgic comfort. Their "Pause that Refreshes" campaign became synonymous with taking a break from life's pressures, while their World War II marketing positioned Coke as a symbol of home for soldiers fighting abroad.
Pepsi, meanwhile, embraced its underdog status and turned it into a competitive advantage. Rather than going head-to-head with Coke's traditional messaging, Pepsi positioned itself as the choice of the next generation – younger, hipper, and more in tune with contemporary culture. Their famous "Pepsi Generation" campaigns didn't just sell cola; they sold rebellion against the establishment, making choosing Pepsi an act of youthful defiance. This challenger brand mentality allowed Pepsi to carve out its own territory while still nipping at Coke's heels.
The beauty of the Cola Wars lies in how both brands have managed to stay relevant across multiple generations by constantly reinventing their battlefield tactics. When traditional advertising began losing its punch, both companies pivoted to celebrity endorsements, sponsorship deals, and experiential marketing. Pepsi brought in pop culture icons like Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, and Beyoncé, while Coca-Cola focused on universal themes of happiness and togetherness that transcended individual celebrities.
The smartphone sector has witnessed equally dramatic brand wars, with Apple and Samsung trading blows in courtrooms and marketplaces around the globe. Apple built its reputation on sleek design, intuitive user experience, and an ecosystem that keeps customers coming back for more. Their marketing strategy banks on emotional storytelling and aspirational lifestyle branding that makes owning an iPhone feel like joining an exclusive club. Samsung, conversely, has positioned itself as the innovation leader, constantly pushing the envelope with cutting-edge features and technology that makes Apple look conservative by comparison.
These tech titans have mastered the art of turning product launches into cultural events that generate massive media coverage and consumer buzz. Apple's keynote presentations have become theatrical spectacles that treat new features like revolutionary breakthroughs, while Samsung's response campaigns often focus on highlighting capabilities that Apple devices lack. The result is a perpetual cycle of one-upmanship that keeps both brands in the spotlight and drives consumer interest across the entire category.
The digital age has completely changed the rules of engagement for brand wars. Social media platforms have become the primary battlegrounds where brands can engage in real-time combat, responding to competitor moves within hours rather than months. Meme marketing has emerged as a powerful weapon, with brands like Coca-Cola using humor and relatable content to connect with younger audiences while subtly undermining their competitors' messaging.
The rise of influencer marketing has added another dimension to modern brand wars. Rather than relying solely on traditional advertising, brands now deploy armies of content creators and social media personalities to fight their battles on multiple fronts. Pepsi has embraced this strategy by partnering with influencers who resonate with their target demographic, creating authentic-feeling content that connects on a personal level. Meanwhile, Coca-Cola has focused on working with global musicians and cultural icons who embody their brand values of optimism and inclusivity.
Consumer behavior research reveals fascinating insights about how brand wars actually influence purchasing decisions. Studies show that 58% of consumers now prefer products and brands that support local economies, reflecting a shift toward community-oriented purchasing that challenges traditional global brand dominance. This trend has forced multinational corporations to rethink their strategies and find ways to appear more locally relevant while maintaining their global scale advantages.
The emotional component of brand wars cannot be overstated. When brands successfully tap into consumers' deepest desires and aspirations, they create psychological bonds that transcend rational decision-making. Successful brands understand that they're not just selling products – they're selling dreams, identities, and ways of life that consumers want to embrace. This emotional warfare requires brands to constantly monitor cultural trends and social movements, ensuring their messaging remains relevant and resonant with evolving consumer values.
Price wars represent one of the most dangerous aspects of brand competition, where companies engage in a race to the bottom that can destroy industry profitability. However, smart brands have learned to compete on value rather than price alone, using sophisticated revenue management and AI-driven pricing strategies to optimize their market position. Companies now deploy advanced analytics to predict competitor responses and scenario-plan their moves before launching new initiatives.
The sustainability battleground has emerged as a crucial front in modern brand wars. With 72% of consumers actively participating in the circular economy through recycling and reusing products, brands must demonstrate genuine environmental commitment or risk being labeled as greenwashers. This has led to fascinating competitions over who can achieve the most ambitious sustainability goals, with companies like Coca-Cola pledging to make 100% of their packaging recyclable while simultaneously trying to outdo their competitors' environmental initiatives.
The future of brand wars will likely be shaped by emerging technologies and changing consumer expectations. Artificial intelligence is already enabling more sophisticated competitive intelligence gathering and real-time response capabilities, while virtual and augmented reality are creating new arenas for brand combat. As the metaverse develops, we can expect to see brands fighting for virtual real estate and digital mindshare in ways that we're only beginning to imagine.
The globalization of brand wars has created interesting dynamics where local preferences clash with international brand strategies. Recent data shows that 42% of European consumers report having a worse perception of American brands, suggesting that cultural and political factors are increasingly influencing brand preferences. This trend is forcing global brands to develop more nuanced approaches that respect local sensitivities while maintaining consistent global messaging.
Looking ahead, the most successful brand warriors will be those who master the delicate balance between aggressive competition and authentic consumer value creation. The days of purely marketing-driven brand wars may be numbered, as consumers become more sophisticated and demand substance behind the sizzle. Brands that can combine compelling storytelling with genuine innovation and social responsibility will likely emerge as the victors in tomorrow's marketplace battles.
The ultimate lesson from decades of brand wars is that competition drives innovation, creativity, and consumer value in ways that monopolistic markets never could. While the battles can sometimes seem petty or overblown, they force companies to constantly improve their offerings and find new ways to delight customers. In this sense, brand wars represent capitalism at its finest – turning rivalry into a force for progress that benefits everyone involved, from shareholders to consumers to society at large.
1. **defining characteristic**
the most important feature that identifies something
2. **capitalism** /ˈkæpətəlɪzəm/ (both US/UK)
an economic system based on private ownership and profit
3. **epic** /ˈepɪk/ (both US/UK)
very impressive and ambitious
4. **capture public imagination**
to fascinate and interest many people
5. **reshape** /ˌriːˈʃeɪp/ (both US/UK)
to change the form or structure of something
6. **get under the skin**
to affect someone deeply
7. **pick sides**
to choose to support one group over another
8. **badge of honor**
something to be proud of
9. **legendary** /ˈledʒənderi/ (both US/UK)
famous and admired
10. **showdowns** /ˈʃoʊdaʊnz/ (US) /ˈʃəʊdaʊnz/ (UK)
decisive contests between rivals
11. **corporate gladiators**
business competitors who fight publicly
12. **art form**
a creative activity requiring skill
13. **win over**
to gain someone's support
14. **runs deeper**
is more significant than it appears
15. **buying into**
accepting and supporting an idea
16. **tribal affiliations**
group loyalties and memberships
17. **paradoxically** /ˌpærəˈdɑːksɪkli/ (US) /ˌpærəˈdɒksɪkli/ (UK)
in a contradictory way
18. **emotionally invested**
having strong feelings about something
19. **passionate advocates**
enthusiastic supporters
20. **resembling** /rɪˈzembəlɪŋ/ (both US/UK)
being similar to
21. **religious devotion**
very strong commitment
22. **stakes** /steɪks/ (both US/UK)
the level of risk or importance
23. **fierce competition**
very intense rivalry
24. **secure** /sɪˈkjʊr/ (both US/UK)
to obtain or achieve
25. **waging war**
fighting a battle
26. **mindset** /ˈmaɪndset/ (both US/UK)
a particular way of thinking
27. **cutthroat** /ˈkʌtθroʊt/ (US) /ˈkʌtθrəʊt/ (UK)
ruthlessly competitive
28. **pull out all the stops**
to make maximum effort
29. **differentiate** /ˌdɪfəˈrenʃieɪt/ (both US/UK)
to make or show differences
30. **comparable** /ˈkɑːmpərəbl/ (US) /ˈkɒmpərəbl/ (UK)
similar in quality or amount
31. **attributes** /ˈætrəbjuːts/ (both US/UK)
characteristics or features
32. **walk away with**
to win or achieve
33. **dominance** /ˈdɑːmənəns/ (US) /ˈdɒmənəns/ (UK)
control or power
34. **mindshare** /ˈmaɪndʃer/ (both US/UK)
the level of consumer awareness
35. **fighting an uphill battle**
struggling against difficult odds
36. **relevance** /ˈreləvəns/ (both US/UK)
the quality of being important
37. **gold standard**
the best example of something
38. **transcend** /trænˈsend/ (both US/UK)
to go beyond normal limits
39. **touchstones** /ˈtʌtʃstoʊnz/ (US) /ˈtʌtʃstəʊnz/ (UK)
standards by which something is judged
40. **locked in combat**
engaged in ongoing conflict
41. **deploying** /dɪˈplɔɪɪŋ/ (both US/UK)
using strategically
42. **increasingly sophisticated**
becoming more complex and advanced
43. **arsenal** /ˈɑːrsənəl/ (US) /ˈɑːsənəl/ (UK)
a collection of weapons or methods
44. **tactics** /ˈtæktɪks/ (both US/UK)
planned methods to achieve goals
45. **empire** /ˈempaɪər/ (both US/UK)
a large and powerful organization
46. **classical Americana**
traditional American cultural values
47. **positioning** /pəˈzɪʃənɪŋ/ (both US/UK)
placing strategically in the market
48. **wholesome** /ˈhoʊlsəm/ (US) /ˈhəʊlsəm/ (UK)
healthy and morally good
49. **embodied** /ɪmˈbɑːdid/ (US) /ɪmˈbɒdid/ (UK)
represented in physical form
50. **nostalgic** /nɑːˈstældʒɪk/ (US) /nɒˈstældʒɪk/ (UK)
longing for the past
51. **synonymous** /sɪˈnɑːnəməs/ (US) /sɪˈnɒnəməs/ (UK)
closely associated with
52. **coveted** /ˈkʌvətɪd/ (both US/UK)
greatly desired
53. **embodiment** /ɪmˈbɑːdimənt/ (US) /ɪmˈbɒdimənt/ (UK)
a perfect example
54. **embraced** /ɪmˈbreɪst/ (both US/UK)
accepted enthusiastically
55. **underdog** /ˈʌndərdɔːɡ/ (US) /ˈʌndədɒɡ/ (UK)
someone expected to lose
56. **competitive advantage**
a benefit over competitors
57. **going head-to-head**
competing directly
58. **messaging** /ˈmesɪdʒɪŋ/ (both US/UK)
communication strategy
59. **positioned itself**
established its market image
60. **in tune with**
understanding and responding to
61. **contemporary** /kənˈtempəreri/ (both US/UK)
modern; current
62. **rebellion** /rɪˈbeljən/ (both US/UK)
resistance to authority
63. **establishment** /ɪˈstæblɪʃmənt/ (both US/UK)
the existing power structure
64. **act of defiance**
a bold resistance to authority
65. **challenger brand**
a company that competes against market leaders
66. **mentality** /menˈtæləti/ (both US/UK)
a characteristic way of thinking
67. **carve out**
to create through effort
68. **territory** /ˈterətɔːri/ (US) /ˈterətri/ (UK)
area of control or influence
69. **nipping at heels**
following closely behind
70. **constantly reinventing**
continuously changing and improving
71. **battlefield tactics**
strategies used in competition
72. **losing its punch**
becoming less effective
73. **pivoted** /ˈpɪvətɪd/ (both US/UK)
changed direction
74. **celebrity endorsements**
famous people promoting products
75. **sponsorship deals**
agreements to provide financial support
76. **experiential marketing**
marketing through direct experiences
77. **pop culture icons**
famous figures in popular culture
78. **universal themes**
ideas that appeal to everyone
79. **transcended** /trænˈsendɪd/ (both US/UK)
went beyond
80. **witnessed** /ˈwɪtnəst/ (both US/UK)
saw or experienced
81. **equally dramatic**
just as intense
82. **trading blows**
exchanging attacks
83. **courtrooms** /ˈkɔːrtruːmz/ (US) /ˈkɔːtruːmz/ (UK)
places where legal cases are heard
84. **marketplaces** /ˈmɑːrkɪtpleɪsɪz/ (US) /ˈmɑːkɪtpleɪsɪz/ (UK)
commercial environments
85. **sleek design**
attractive and modern appearance
86. **intuitive** /ɪnˈtuːətɪv/ (both US/UK)
easy to understand naturally
87. **ecosystem** /ˈiːkoʊsɪstəm/ (US) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/ (UK)
interconnected system
88. **banks on**
relies heavily on
89. **aspirational** /ˌæspəˈreɪʃənəl/ (both US/UK)
related to hopes and ambitions
90. **exclusive club**
select group with limited membership
91. **conversely** /kənˈvɜːrsli/ (US) /kənˈvɜːsli/ (UK)
on the other hand
92. **innovation leader**
pioneer in new developments
93. **pushing the envelope**
testing limits
94. **cutting-edge** /ˌkʌtɪŋ ˈedʒ/ (both US/UK)
most advanced
95. **conservative** /kənˈsɜːrvətɪv/ (both US/UK)
traditional and cautious
96. **by comparison**
when compared to something else
97. **mastered the art**
become very skilled at
98. **product launches**
introductions of new products
99. **cultural events**
occasions of social importance
100. **massive media coverage**
extensive news reporting
101. **consumer buzz**
excitement among customers
102. **tech titans**
powerful technology companies
103. **keynote presentations**
main speeches at events
104. **theatrical spectacles**
dramatic performances
105. **revolutionary breakthroughs**
major innovations
106. **response campaigns**
marketing reactions to competitors
107. **highlighting capabilities**
emphasizing abilities
108. **perpetual cycle**
endless repetition
109. **one-upmanship**
trying to outdo someone
110. **spotlight** /ˈspɑːtlaɪt/ (US) /ˈspɒtlaɪt/ (UK)
focus of attention
111. **drives** /draɪvz/ (both US/UK)
motivates or causes
112. **completely changed the rules**
fundamentally altered how things work
113. **engagement** /ɪnˈɡeɪdʒmənt/ (both US/UK)
involvement and interaction
114. **primary battlegrounds**
main areas of conflict
115. **real-time combat**
immediate competition
116. **within hours rather than months**
much more quickly than before
117. **emerged as**
become recognized as
118. **weapon** /ˈwepən/ (both US/UK)
tool used for attack
119. **humor** /ˈhjuːmər/ (US) /ˈhjuːmə/ (UK)
funny or amusing quality
120. **relatable content**
material people can identify with
121. **subtly undermining**
quietly weakening
122. **added another dimension**
created a new aspect
123. **deploy armies**
send out large numbers
124. **content creators**
people who make digital material
125. **fight their battles**
compete on their behalf
126. **multiple fronts**
several different areas
127. **resonate with**
appeal strongly to
128. **target demographic**
intended audience group
129. **authentic-feeling**
seeming genuine
130. **connects on a personal level**
creates individual relationships
131. **global musicians**
international music artists
132. **cultural icons**
symbols of cultural importance
133. **embody** /ɪmˈbɑːdi/ (US) /ɪmˈbɒdi/ (UK)
represent or express
134. **optimism** /ˈɑːptəmɪzəm/ (US) /ˈɒptəmɪzəm/ (UK)
positive outlook
135. **inclusivity** /ˌɪnkluːˈsɪvəti/ (both US/UK)
including everyone
136. **fascinating insights**
interesting discoveries
137. **purchasing decisions**
choices about what to buy
138. **community-oriented purchasing**
buying to support local areas
139. **challenges** /ˈtʃælɪndʒɪz/ (both US/UK)
tests or threatens
140. **multinational corporations**
companies operating in many countries
141. **rethink their strategies**
reconsider their plans
142. **locally relevant**
important to local communities
143. **maintaining** /meɪnˈteɪnɪŋ/ (both US/UK)
keeping or preserving
144. **scale advantages**
benefits of large size
145. **cannot be overstated**
is extremely important
146. **tap into**
access or use
147. **deepest desires**
strongest wants
148. **aspirations** /ˌæspəˈreɪʃənz/ (both US/UK)
hopes and ambitions
149. **psychological bonds**
mental connections
150. **transcend** /trænˈsend/ (both US/UK)
go beyond
151. **rational decision-making**
logical thought processes
152. **emotional warfare**
competition using feelings
153. **monitor** /ˈmɑːnətər/ (US) /ˈmɒnətə/ (UK)
watch and check
154. **cultural trends**
popular social movements
155. **social movements**
organized efforts for change
156. **relevant** /ˈreləvənt/ (both US/UK)
applicable and important
157. **resonant** /ˈrezənənt/ (both US/UK)
having deep meaning
158. **evolving** /ɪˈvɑːlvɪŋ/ (US) /ɪˈvɒlvɪŋ/ (UK)
changing and developing
159. **most dangerous aspects**
riskiest parts
160. **race to the bottom**
competition to offer lowest prices
161. **destroy industry profitability**
eliminate ability to make money
162. **compete on value**
focus on benefits rather than price
163. **sophisticated** /səˈfɪstɪkeɪtɪd/ (both US/UK)
complex and advanced
164. **revenue management**
optimizing income
165. **AI-driven pricing**
computer-controlled cost setting
166. **optimize** /ˈɑːptəmaɪz/ (US) /ˈɒptəmaɪz/ (UK)
improve to maximum efficiency
167. **advanced analytics**
sophisticated data analysis
168. **predict** /prɪˈdɪkt/ (both US/UK)
forecast future events
169. **scenario-plan**
prepare for different possibilities
170. **sustainability battleground**
competition over environmental issues
171. **crucial front**
important area of conflict
172. **circular economy**
system of reusing resources
173. **demonstrate** /ˈdemənstreɪt/ (both US/UK)
show clearly
174. **genuine** /ˈdʒenjuɪn/ (both US/UK)
real and authentic
175. **environmental commitment**
dedication to protecting nature
176. **greenwashers** /ˈɡriːnwɑːʃərz/ (US) /ˈɡriːnwɒʃəz/ (UK)
companies falsely claiming to be eco-friendly
177. **fascinating competitions**
interesting contests
178. **ambitious** /æmˈbɪʃəs/ (both US/UK)
having high goals
179. **sustainability goals**
environmental targets
180. **pledging** /ˈpledʒɪŋ/ (both US/UK)
promising formally
181. **recyclable** /rɪˈsaɪkləbl/ (both US/UK)
able to be processed for reuse
182. **simultaneously** /ˌsaɪməlˈteɪniəsli/ (both US/UK)
at the same time
183. **outdo** /ˌaʊtˈduː/ (both US/UK)
perform better than
184. **environmental initiatives**
programs to help nature
185. **shaped by**
influenced by
186. **emerging technologies**
new technological developments
187. **changing consumer expectations**
evolving customer demands
188. **enabling** /ɪˈneɪblɪŋ/ (both US/UK)
making possible
189. **competitive intelligence**
information about rivals
190. **gathering** /ˈɡæðərɪŋ/ (both US/UK)
collecting
191. **real-time response**
immediate reaction
192. **capabilities** /ˌkeɪpəˈbɪlətiz/ (both US/UK)
abilities
193. **virtual reality**
computer-simulated environment
194. **augmented reality**
enhanced real-world view
195. **arenas** /əˈriːnəz/ (both US/UK)
areas of activity
196. **brand combat**
competition between companies
197. **metaverse** /ˈmetəvɜːrs/ (both US/UK)
virtual shared space
198. **virtual real estate**
digital property
199. **digital mindshare**
online attention
200. **beginning to imagine**
starting to envision
201. **globalization** /ˌɡloʊbələˈzeɪʃən/ (US) /ˌɡləʊbəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ (UK)
worldwide integration
202. **interesting dynamics**
complex interactions
203. **local preferences**
regional tastes
204. **clash with**
conflict with
205. **international brand strategies**
global company plans
206. **perception** /pərˈsepʃən/ (both US/UK)
how something is viewed
207. **cultural factors**
social influences
208. **political factors**
governmental influences
209. **increasingly influencing**
having growing impact on
210. **nuanced approaches**
subtle and sophisticated methods
211. **respect** /rɪˈspekt/ (both US/UK)
show consideration for
212. **local sensitivities**
regional concerns
213. **consistent** /kənˈsɪstənt/ (both US/UK)
unchanging
214. **global messaging**
worldwide communication
215. **looking ahead**
considering the future
216. **master** /ˈmæstər/ (US) /ˈmɑːstə/ (UK)
become very skilled at
217. **delicate balance**
careful equilibrium
218. **aggressive competition**
intense rivalry
219. **authentic** /ɔːˈθentɪk/ (both US/UK)
genuine
220. **value creation**
producing benefits
221. **purely marketing-driven**
focused only on promotion
222. **may be numbered**
might be limited
223. **sophisticated** /səˈfɪstɪkeɪtɪd/ (both US/UK)
knowledgeable and experienced
224. **demand substance**
require real value
225. **behind the sizzle**
beyond the excitement
226. **compelling storytelling**
engaging narratives
227. **genuine innovation**
real new developments
228. **social responsibility**
duty to society
229. **emerge as victors**
become winners
230. **marketplace battles**
commercial competitions
231. **ultimate lesson**
most important teaching
232. **drives innovation**
motivates new developments
233. **creativity** /ˌkriːeɪˈtɪvəti/ (both US/UK)
imaginative thinking
234. **monopolistic markets**
markets controlled by one company
235. **petty** /ˈpeti/ (both US/UK)
small and unimportant
236. **overblown** /ˌoʊvərˈbloʊn/ (US) /ˌəʊvəˈbləʊn/ (UK)
exaggerated
237. **constantly improve**
continuously make better
238. **offerings** /ˈɔːfərɪŋz/ (US) /ˈɒfərɪŋz/ (UK)
products or services
239. **delight customers**
please consumers greatly
240. **represent** /ˌreprɪˈzent/ (both US/UK)
be an example of
241. **capitalism at its finest**
the best example of free market economy
242. **turning rivalry into**
converting competition into
243. **force for progress**
power that creates improvement
244. **benefits everyone involved**
helps all participants
245. **shareholders** /ˈʃerhoʊldərz/ (US) /ˈʃeəhəʊldəz/ (UK)
people who own company stock
246. **society at large**
the general public
the most important feature that identifies something
2. **capitalism** /ˈkæpətəlɪzəm/ (both US/UK)
an economic system based on private ownership and profit
3. **epic** /ˈepɪk/ (both US/UK)
very impressive and ambitious
4. **capture public imagination**
to fascinate and interest many people
5. **reshape** /ˌriːˈʃeɪp/ (both US/UK)
to change the form or structure of something
6. **get under the skin**
to affect someone deeply
7. **pick sides**
to choose to support one group over another
8. **badge of honor**
something to be proud of
9. **legendary** /ˈledʒənderi/ (both US/UK)
famous and admired
10. **showdowns** /ˈʃoʊdaʊnz/ (US) /ˈʃəʊdaʊnz/ (UK)
decisive contests between rivals
11. **corporate gladiators**
business competitors who fight publicly
12. **art form**
a creative activity requiring skill
13. **win over**
to gain someone's support
14. **runs deeper**
is more significant than it appears
15. **buying into**
accepting and supporting an idea
16. **tribal affiliations**
group loyalties and memberships
17. **paradoxically** /ˌpærəˈdɑːksɪkli/ (US) /ˌpærəˈdɒksɪkli/ (UK)
in a contradictory way
18. **emotionally invested**
having strong feelings about something
19. **passionate advocates**
enthusiastic supporters
20. **resembling** /rɪˈzembəlɪŋ/ (both US/UK)
being similar to
21. **religious devotion**
very strong commitment
22. **stakes** /steɪks/ (both US/UK)
the level of risk or importance
23. **fierce competition**
very intense rivalry
24. **secure** /sɪˈkjʊr/ (both US/UK)
to obtain or achieve
25. **waging war**
fighting a battle
26. **mindset** /ˈmaɪndset/ (both US/UK)
a particular way of thinking
27. **cutthroat** /ˈkʌtθroʊt/ (US) /ˈkʌtθrəʊt/ (UK)
ruthlessly competitive
28. **pull out all the stops**
to make maximum effort
29. **differentiate** /ˌdɪfəˈrenʃieɪt/ (both US/UK)
to make or show differences
30. **comparable** /ˈkɑːmpərəbl/ (US) /ˈkɒmpərəbl/ (UK)
similar in quality or amount
31. **attributes** /ˈætrəbjuːts/ (both US/UK)
characteristics or features
32. **walk away with**
to win or achieve
33. **dominance** /ˈdɑːmənəns/ (US) /ˈdɒmənəns/ (UK)
control or power
34. **mindshare** /ˈmaɪndʃer/ (both US/UK)
the level of consumer awareness
35. **fighting an uphill battle**
struggling against difficult odds
36. **relevance** /ˈreləvəns/ (both US/UK)
the quality of being important
37. **gold standard**
the best example of something
38. **transcend** /trænˈsend/ (both US/UK)
to go beyond normal limits
39. **touchstones** /ˈtʌtʃstoʊnz/ (US) /ˈtʌtʃstəʊnz/ (UK)
standards by which something is judged
40. **locked in combat**
engaged in ongoing conflict
41. **deploying** /dɪˈplɔɪɪŋ/ (both US/UK)
using strategically
42. **increasingly sophisticated**
becoming more complex and advanced
43. **arsenal** /ˈɑːrsənəl/ (US) /ˈɑːsənəl/ (UK)
a collection of weapons or methods
44. **tactics** /ˈtæktɪks/ (both US/UK)
planned methods to achieve goals
45. **empire** /ˈempaɪər/ (both US/UK)
a large and powerful organization
46. **classical Americana**
traditional American cultural values
47. **positioning** /pəˈzɪʃənɪŋ/ (both US/UK)
placing strategically in the market
48. **wholesome** /ˈhoʊlsəm/ (US) /ˈhəʊlsəm/ (UK)
healthy and morally good
49. **embodied** /ɪmˈbɑːdid/ (US) /ɪmˈbɒdid/ (UK)
represented in physical form
50. **nostalgic** /nɑːˈstældʒɪk/ (US) /nɒˈstældʒɪk/ (UK)
longing for the past
51. **synonymous** /sɪˈnɑːnəməs/ (US) /sɪˈnɒnəməs/ (UK)
closely associated with
52. **coveted** /ˈkʌvətɪd/ (both US/UK)
greatly desired
53. **embodiment** /ɪmˈbɑːdimənt/ (US) /ɪmˈbɒdimənt/ (UK)
a perfect example
54. **embraced** /ɪmˈbreɪst/ (both US/UK)
accepted enthusiastically
55. **underdog** /ˈʌndərdɔːɡ/ (US) /ˈʌndədɒɡ/ (UK)
someone expected to lose
56. **competitive advantage**
a benefit over competitors
57. **going head-to-head**
competing directly
58. **messaging** /ˈmesɪdʒɪŋ/ (both US/UK)
communication strategy
59. **positioned itself**
established its market image
60. **in tune with**
understanding and responding to
61. **contemporary** /kənˈtempəreri/ (both US/UK)
modern; current
62. **rebellion** /rɪˈbeljən/ (both US/UK)
resistance to authority
63. **establishment** /ɪˈstæblɪʃmənt/ (both US/UK)
the existing power structure
64. **act of defiance**
a bold resistance to authority
65. **challenger brand**
a company that competes against market leaders
66. **mentality** /menˈtæləti/ (both US/UK)
a characteristic way of thinking
67. **carve out**
to create through effort
68. **territory** /ˈterətɔːri/ (US) /ˈterətri/ (UK)
area of control or influence
69. **nipping at heels**
following closely behind
70. **constantly reinventing**
continuously changing and improving
71. **battlefield tactics**
strategies used in competition
72. **losing its punch**
becoming less effective
73. **pivoted** /ˈpɪvətɪd/ (both US/UK)
changed direction
74. **celebrity endorsements**
famous people promoting products
75. **sponsorship deals**
agreements to provide financial support
76. **experiential marketing**
marketing through direct experiences
77. **pop culture icons**
famous figures in popular culture
78. **universal themes**
ideas that appeal to everyone
79. **transcended** /trænˈsendɪd/ (both US/UK)
went beyond
80. **witnessed** /ˈwɪtnəst/ (both US/UK)
saw or experienced
81. **equally dramatic**
just as intense
82. **trading blows**
exchanging attacks
83. **courtrooms** /ˈkɔːrtruːmz/ (US) /ˈkɔːtruːmz/ (UK)
places where legal cases are heard
84. **marketplaces** /ˈmɑːrkɪtpleɪsɪz/ (US) /ˈmɑːkɪtpleɪsɪz/ (UK)
commercial environments
85. **sleek design**
attractive and modern appearance
86. **intuitive** /ɪnˈtuːətɪv/ (both US/UK)
easy to understand naturally
87. **ecosystem** /ˈiːkoʊsɪstəm/ (US) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/ (UK)
interconnected system
88. **banks on**
relies heavily on
89. **aspirational** /ˌæspəˈreɪʃənəl/ (both US/UK)
related to hopes and ambitions
90. **exclusive club**
select group with limited membership
91. **conversely** /kənˈvɜːrsli/ (US) /kənˈvɜːsli/ (UK)
on the other hand
92. **innovation leader**
pioneer in new developments
93. **pushing the envelope**
testing limits
94. **cutting-edge** /ˌkʌtɪŋ ˈedʒ/ (both US/UK)
most advanced
95. **conservative** /kənˈsɜːrvətɪv/ (both US/UK)
traditional and cautious
96. **by comparison**
when compared to something else
97. **mastered the art**
become very skilled at
98. **product launches**
introductions of new products
99. **cultural events**
occasions of social importance
100. **massive media coverage**
extensive news reporting
101. **consumer buzz**
excitement among customers
102. **tech titans**
powerful technology companies
103. **keynote presentations**
main speeches at events
104. **theatrical spectacles**
dramatic performances
105. **revolutionary breakthroughs**
major innovations
106. **response campaigns**
marketing reactions to competitors
107. **highlighting capabilities**
emphasizing abilities
108. **perpetual cycle**
endless repetition
109. **one-upmanship**
trying to outdo someone
110. **spotlight** /ˈspɑːtlaɪt/ (US) /ˈspɒtlaɪt/ (UK)
focus of attention
111. **drives** /draɪvz/ (both US/UK)
motivates or causes
112. **completely changed the rules**
fundamentally altered how things work
113. **engagement** /ɪnˈɡeɪdʒmənt/ (both US/UK)
involvement and interaction
114. **primary battlegrounds**
main areas of conflict
115. **real-time combat**
immediate competition
116. **within hours rather than months**
much more quickly than before
117. **emerged as**
become recognized as
118. **weapon** /ˈwepən/ (both US/UK)
tool used for attack
119. **humor** /ˈhjuːmər/ (US) /ˈhjuːmə/ (UK)
funny or amusing quality
120. **relatable content**
material people can identify with
121. **subtly undermining**
quietly weakening
122. **added another dimension**
created a new aspect
123. **deploy armies**
send out large numbers
124. **content creators**
people who make digital material
125. **fight their battles**
compete on their behalf
126. **multiple fronts**
several different areas
127. **resonate with**
appeal strongly to
128. **target demographic**
intended audience group
129. **authentic-feeling**
seeming genuine
130. **connects on a personal level**
creates individual relationships
131. **global musicians**
international music artists
132. **cultural icons**
symbols of cultural importance
133. **embody** /ɪmˈbɑːdi/ (US) /ɪmˈbɒdi/ (UK)
represent or express
134. **optimism** /ˈɑːptəmɪzəm/ (US) /ˈɒptəmɪzəm/ (UK)
positive outlook
135. **inclusivity** /ˌɪnkluːˈsɪvəti/ (both US/UK)
including everyone
136. **fascinating insights**
interesting discoveries
137. **purchasing decisions**
choices about what to buy
138. **community-oriented purchasing**
buying to support local areas
139. **challenges** /ˈtʃælɪndʒɪz/ (both US/UK)
tests or threatens
140. **multinational corporations**
companies operating in many countries
141. **rethink their strategies**
reconsider their plans
142. **locally relevant**
important to local communities
143. **maintaining** /meɪnˈteɪnɪŋ/ (both US/UK)
keeping or preserving
144. **scale advantages**
benefits of large size
145. **cannot be overstated**
is extremely important
146. **tap into**
access or use
147. **deepest desires**
strongest wants
148. **aspirations** /ˌæspəˈreɪʃənz/ (both US/UK)
hopes and ambitions
149. **psychological bonds**
mental connections
150. **transcend** /trænˈsend/ (both US/UK)
go beyond
151. **rational decision-making**
logical thought processes
152. **emotional warfare**
competition using feelings
153. **monitor** /ˈmɑːnətər/ (US) /ˈmɒnətə/ (UK)
watch and check
154. **cultural trends**
popular social movements
155. **social movements**
organized efforts for change
156. **relevant** /ˈreləvənt/ (both US/UK)
applicable and important
157. **resonant** /ˈrezənənt/ (both US/UK)
having deep meaning
158. **evolving** /ɪˈvɑːlvɪŋ/ (US) /ɪˈvɒlvɪŋ/ (UK)
changing and developing
159. **most dangerous aspects**
riskiest parts
160. **race to the bottom**
competition to offer lowest prices
161. **destroy industry profitability**
eliminate ability to make money
162. **compete on value**
focus on benefits rather than price
163. **sophisticated** /səˈfɪstɪkeɪtɪd/ (both US/UK)
complex and advanced
164. **revenue management**
optimizing income
165. **AI-driven pricing**
computer-controlled cost setting
166. **optimize** /ˈɑːptəmaɪz/ (US) /ˈɒptəmaɪz/ (UK)
improve to maximum efficiency
167. **advanced analytics**
sophisticated data analysis
168. **predict** /prɪˈdɪkt/ (both US/UK)
forecast future events
169. **scenario-plan**
prepare for different possibilities
170. **sustainability battleground**
competition over environmental issues
171. **crucial front**
important area of conflict
172. **circular economy**
system of reusing resources
173. **demonstrate** /ˈdemənstreɪt/ (both US/UK)
show clearly
174. **genuine** /ˈdʒenjuɪn/ (both US/UK)
real and authentic
175. **environmental commitment**
dedication to protecting nature
176. **greenwashers** /ˈɡriːnwɑːʃərz/ (US) /ˈɡriːnwɒʃəz/ (UK)
companies falsely claiming to be eco-friendly
177. **fascinating competitions**
interesting contests
178. **ambitious** /æmˈbɪʃəs/ (both US/UK)
having high goals
179. **sustainability goals**
environmental targets
180. **pledging** /ˈpledʒɪŋ/ (both US/UK)
promising formally
181. **recyclable** /rɪˈsaɪkləbl/ (both US/UK)
able to be processed for reuse
182. **simultaneously** /ˌsaɪməlˈteɪniəsli/ (both US/UK)
at the same time
183. **outdo** /ˌaʊtˈduː/ (both US/UK)
perform better than
184. **environmental initiatives**
programs to help nature
185. **shaped by**
influenced by
186. **emerging technologies**
new technological developments
187. **changing consumer expectations**
evolving customer demands
188. **enabling** /ɪˈneɪblɪŋ/ (both US/UK)
making possible
189. **competitive intelligence**
information about rivals
190. **gathering** /ˈɡæðərɪŋ/ (both US/UK)
collecting
191. **real-time response**
immediate reaction
192. **capabilities** /ˌkeɪpəˈbɪlətiz/ (both US/UK)
abilities
193. **virtual reality**
computer-simulated environment
194. **augmented reality**
enhanced real-world view
195. **arenas** /əˈriːnəz/ (both US/UK)
areas of activity
196. **brand combat**
competition between companies
197. **metaverse** /ˈmetəvɜːrs/ (both US/UK)
virtual shared space
198. **virtual real estate**
digital property
199. **digital mindshare**
online attention
200. **beginning to imagine**
starting to envision
201. **globalization** /ˌɡloʊbələˈzeɪʃən/ (US) /ˌɡləʊbəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ (UK)
worldwide integration
202. **interesting dynamics**
complex interactions
203. **local preferences**
regional tastes
204. **clash with**
conflict with
205. **international brand strategies**
global company plans
206. **perception** /pərˈsepʃən/ (both US/UK)
how something is viewed
207. **cultural factors**
social influences
208. **political factors**
governmental influences
209. **increasingly influencing**
having growing impact on
210. **nuanced approaches**
subtle and sophisticated methods
211. **respect** /rɪˈspekt/ (both US/UK)
show consideration for
212. **local sensitivities**
regional concerns
213. **consistent** /kənˈsɪstənt/ (both US/UK)
unchanging
214. **global messaging**
worldwide communication
215. **looking ahead**
considering the future
216. **master** /ˈmæstər/ (US) /ˈmɑːstə/ (UK)
become very skilled at
217. **delicate balance**
careful equilibrium
218. **aggressive competition**
intense rivalry
219. **authentic** /ɔːˈθentɪk/ (both US/UK)
genuine
220. **value creation**
producing benefits
221. **purely marketing-driven**
focused only on promotion
222. **may be numbered**
might be limited
223. **sophisticated** /səˈfɪstɪkeɪtɪd/ (both US/UK)
knowledgeable and experienced
224. **demand substance**
require real value
225. **behind the sizzle**
beyond the excitement
226. **compelling storytelling**
engaging narratives
227. **genuine innovation**
real new developments
228. **social responsibility**
duty to society
229. **emerge as victors**
become winners
230. **marketplace battles**
commercial competitions
231. **ultimate lesson**
most important teaching
232. **drives innovation**
motivates new developments
233. **creativity** /ˌkriːeɪˈtɪvəti/ (both US/UK)
imaginative thinking
234. **monopolistic markets**
markets controlled by one company
235. **petty** /ˈpeti/ (both US/UK)
small and unimportant
236. **overblown** /ˌoʊvərˈbloʊn/ (US) /ˌəʊvəˈbləʊn/ (UK)
exaggerated
237. **constantly improve**
continuously make better
238. **offerings** /ˈɔːfərɪŋz/ (US) /ˈɒfərɪŋz/ (UK)
products or services
239. **delight customers**
please consumers greatly
240. **represent** /ˌreprɪˈzent/ (both US/UK)
be an example of
241. **capitalism at its finest**
the best example of free market economy
242. **turning rivalry into**
converting competition into
243. **force for progress**
power that creates improvement
244. **benefits everyone involved**
helps all participants
245. **shareholders** /ˈʃerhoʊldərz/ (US) /ˈʃeəhəʊldəz/ (UK)
people who own company stock
246. **society at large**
the general public
Intonation: ending a discussion
Intonation plays an important role when ending a discussion in English. Intonation refers to the rise and fall of your voice as you speak. When ending a discussion, speakers often use a falling intonation—this means your voice goes down at the end of the sentence. Falling intonation signals certainty and finality, letting listeners know that the conversation is coming to an end.
For example:
- "I think we've covered everything." (voice falls at the end)
- "Let's agree to disagree." (voice falls at the end)
- "To sum up, we agreed that..." (voice falls at the end)
Using falling intonation on these final phrases makes your intention clear and helps prevent misunderstandings, ensuring everyone knows the main points have been discussed and the conversation is concluded.
For example:
- "I think we've covered everything." (voice falls at the end)
- "Let's agree to disagree." (voice falls at the end)
- "To sum up, we agreed that..." (voice falls at the end)
Using falling intonation on these final phrases makes your intention clear and helps prevent misunderstandings, ensuring everyone knows the main points have been discussed and the conversation is concluded.