“Let’s hear both sides of the story.” Emphasizes the importance of considering all perspectives—objective facts and subjective witness accounts—before making a decision.
figures of speech
“The jury is still out.”
“The jury is still out.” Indicates that a decision hasn’t been made yet because all evidence and arguments are still being considered.
“Time is money”
“Time is money.” Time wasted is opportunity lost; acting quickly is essential for success.
walk away
“We can always walk away.” This direct statement illustrates the American logic that participation in an agreement is voluntary and can be ended if it no longer serves one’s interests.
What’s said is said.
Was gesagt ist, ist gesagt. What’s said is said. This statement emphasizes that you have to stand by your words. Once statements have been made, they are considered binding, and backtracking makes you appear unreliable and weak.
“Vertrag ist Vertrag”
Vertrag ist Vertrag. A contract is a contract. A contract is binding – period. Changes or renegotiations are often seen as unprofessional. This expression highlights the German preference for legal certainty and clear agreements.
“Auf Worte müssen Taten folgen”
Auf Worte müssen Taten folgen. Words must be followed by actions. Empty promises are useless. In German negotiation culture, it is expected that statements will be consistently put into practice.
Feilschen
Expressions such as Was kostet die Welt? (What does the world cost?) convey a dismissive attitude toward price discussions, implying that serious and respectable people should not concern themselves with trivial cost negotiations. Additionally, the term Feilschen (to haggle) often carries a negative connotation, suggesting pettiness, desperation, or a lack of class.