Vocabulary Worksheet — Intro

Workplace Conflict

B2 tension • misunderstanding • grievance • workload • feedback • assertive…
Key Vocabulary
Word Meaning Example sentence
tension n. stress or difficulty between people There was tension after the meeting.
misunderstanding n. a failure to understand something correctly The conflict began with a misunderstanding.
grievance n. a formal complaint at work The employee filed a grievance.
workload n. the amount of work someone has Her workload became unmanageable.
feedback n. comments about someone s work or behaviour Constructive feedback can prevent problems.
assertive adj. confident and clear without being aggressive An assertive response can be polite.
boundary n. a limit that protects time, work, or behaviour Clear boundaries prevent stress.
burnout n. extreme tiredness caused by long-term stress Burnout can lead to conflict.
compromise n./v. an agreement where both sides accept less than they wanted They reached a compromise after discussion.
mediator n. a neutral person who helps others reach agreement A mediator joined the meeting.
accountability n. responsibility for actions and results Accountability improves trust.
resolution n. the solution to a problem or conflict The resolution satisfied both teams.
Common Collocations
tension: workplace tension, reduce tension
misunderstanding: simple misunderstanding, avoid misunderstanding
grievance: formal grievance, grievance procedure
workload: heavy workload, reduce workload
feedback: give feedback, honest feedback
assertive: assertive communication, assertive style
boundary: set a boundary, professional boundary
burnout: workplace burnout, prevent burnout
compromise: fair compromise, compromise solution
mediator: professional mediator, mediator role
accountability: personal accountability, accountability system
resolution: peaceful resolution, conflict resolution
Language Tips
Conflict language

Tension is a feeling of stress between people. A grievance is a formal complaint.

A misunderstanding happens when people interpret something differently.

Resolution language

Compromise means finding a middle position. Accountability means taking responsibility.

A boundary is a limit that protects time, work, or behaviour.