business C1 formal

reconcile the differences

/ˈrɛkənsaɪl ði ˈdɪfrənsɪz/

Meaning

This expression means to find a way to make two contrasting ideas, statements, figures, or parties agree or coexist in harmony. In a business context, it is used when resolving discrepancies in data, reports, or negotiating opposing viewpoints between stakeholders. The tone is professional, diplomatic, and objective.

Examples

  • The mediator was able to reconcile the differences between the two partners.

    The mediator was able to reconcile the differences between the two partners.

  • We must reconcile the differences between the draft budget and actual expenditures.

    We must reconcile the differences between the draft budget and actual expenditures.

  • It is difficult to reconcile the differences in these two market research reports.

    It is difficult to reconcile the differences in these two market research reports.

  • Our primary goal today is to reconcile the differences in our strategic visions.

    Our primary goal today is to reconcile the differences in our strategic visions.

  • Before signing, we need to reconcile the differences between the contract versions.

    Before signing, we need to reconcile the differences between the contract versions.

Common Mistakes

  • ✗ We need to reconcile the differences of the two reports.

    ✓ We need to reconcile the differences between the two reports.

    Use 'between' instead of 'of' when referring to the two distinct entities that are being compared and resolved.

  • ✗ The manager tried to make reconcile the differences between the teams.

    ✓ The manager tried to reconcile the differences between the teams.

    Avoid using 'make' before the verb 'reconcile' in this structure; 'reconcile' functions as the main action verb.

Related Expressions

bridge the gap resolve the discrepancies find common ground

Practice

  • The legal teams met yesterday to ___ between the two clauses of the merger agreement.

    💡 Make two conflicting legal statements agree.

    Show answer

    reconcile the differences

  • It took several rounds of negotiations to ___ in the two project proposals.

    💡 Resolve the inconsistencies or conflicting ideas.

    Show answer

    reconcile the differences

#businessenglish #negotiation #conflictresolution #formalenglish