You finish a quick call with a colleague about a project update. A few minutes later, you send an email summarizing the next steps: “As per our conversation, I’ll share the revised report tomorrow.” This small phrase connects the written message with the earlier discussion and ensures everyone remembers the same plan.
In modern communication-where conversations happen across meetings, emails, Slack messages, and calls-phrases like “as per our conversation” help create a clear record. They signal that the message reflects something already discussed. This is important for clarity, accountability, and professional alignment.
However, tone matters. While the phrase can sound professional and efficient, it can also feel overly formal or slightly directive depending on context. That’s why many professionals use alternatives that sound more collaborative or conversational. Understanding the meaning, tone, and appropriate use of “as per our conversation” helps writers communicate with clarity while maintaining a professional and approachable tone.
What Does “As per Our Conversation” Mean?
“As per our conversation” means that the information or action mentioned in a message is based on a previous discussion between the sender and recipient. The phrase is commonly used in emails, reports, or follow-up messages to reference what was already talked about and to confirm shared understanding or agreed next steps.
Origin & History of “As per Our Conversation”
The phrase comes from traditional business and administrative English. The key component, “as per,” originates from formal legal and bureaucratic writing in the 18th and 19th centuries, where it meant “according to” or “in accordance with.”
During the era of formal business correspondence-when letters and memos were the primary forms of workplace communication-phrases like “as per instructions” or “as per agreement” were commonly used to reference earlier discussions or directives.
Over time, this formal structure evolved into the phrase “as per our conversation,” which allowed writers to connect written messages with prior verbal discussions. In modern workplaces, the phrase remains common in emails and project updates because it creates a clear reference point between spoken communication and written documentation.
However, language trends have shifted toward more conversational styles. As a result, professionals increasingly choose alternatives such as “as discussed,” “following our discussion,” or “based on our conversation.”
Synonyms & Alternatives by Tone
Professional & Neutral Alternatives
- As discussed
- Following our discussion
- As previously discussed
- According to our discussion
- Based on our conversation
Polite & Supportive Alternatives
- Just to confirm our discussion
- To recap our discussion
- As we talked about
- As mentioned earlier
- As we agreed earlier
Encouraging & Reassuring
- As we planned
- As we decided together
- As we agreed
Casual, Playful & Idiomatic Alternatives
- Like we talked about
- Per our chat
- As we went over earlier
When Should You Use “As per Our Conversation”?
Professional Settings
The phrase works well in workplace emails, meeting summaries, and project updates. It clearly signals that the message refers to something already discussed and helps create documentation of agreements.
Casual Conversations
In everyday conversation, the phrase can feel too formal. Simpler expressions such as “like we talked about” or “as we discussed” often sound more natural.
Writing, Presentations, Digital Communication
In written communication-especially emails and reports-the phrase helps connect spoken decisions with written records, which improves clarity and accountability.
When It Is Especially Effective
- Summarizing meeting outcomes
- Confirming responsibilities or deadlines
- Documenting decisions made during a call
When Should You Avoid “As per Our Conversation”?
Overly Formal Situations
In friendly or collaborative environments, the phrase may sound stiff. A more conversational alternative may feel more natural.
Legal, Academic, or Sensitive Contexts
In legal or academic writing, vague references to conversations may not provide enough detail or evidence.
Situations Where Nuance May Be Lost
If the earlier discussion was complex, referencing it briefly may oversimplify important details.
Is “As per Our Conversation” Professional, Polite, or Casual?
The phrase is generally professional and moderately formal. It is widely accepted in workplace communication but may sound slightly rigid compared to more modern alternatives.
Formality level: Business-professional
Emotional tone: Neutral, occasionally authoritative
Audience perception: Clear but sometimes slightly directive
Because of this nuance, some professionals prefer alternatives that sound more collaborative and conversational, especially when communicating with peers or clients.
Pros and Cons of Using “As per Our Conversation”
Advantages
Clarity
The phrase directly connects written communication to a previous discussion.
Efficiency
It allows writers to summarize context without repeating the entire conversation.
Accessibility
Most professionals recognize and understand the phrase immediately.
Potential Drawbacks
Oversimplification
Important details from the conversation may be lost if the phrase replaces a full explanation.
Tone mismatch
In some situations, the phrase can sound overly formal or corrective.
Repetition
Frequent use in emails can make writing feel repetitive or mechanical.
Real-Life Examples of “As per Our Conversation” by Context
Email
“As per our conversation earlier today, I’ve attached the revised marketing plan for your review.”
Meeting
“As per our conversation last week, the design team will present the prototype on Friday.”
Presentation
“As per our conversation with the leadership team, the new strategy focuses on improving customer experience.”
Conversation
“As per our conversation yesterday, I’ll send the documents this afternoon.”
Social Media
“As per our conversation during the webinar, here are the resources we discussed.”
“As per Our Conversation” vs Similar Expressions (Key Differences)
| Phrase | Meaning Difference | Tone Difference | Best Use Scenario |
| As discussed | Shorter reference to prior discussion | Neutral and modern | Email follow-ups |
| Following our discussion | Emphasizes sequence after a discussion | Professional and structured | Reports or summaries |
| Based on our conversation | Suggests decisions influenced by discussion | Analytical | Strategy emails |
| As we agreed | Focuses on agreement rather than discussion | Collaborative | Confirming commitments |
| As mentioned earlier | References previously stated information | Neutral | Presentations or long email threads |
Common Mistakes & Misuse of “As per Our Conversation”
Overuse
Using the phrase in every message can make writing sound repetitive and impersonal.
Incorrect context
Referencing a conversation the reader does not clearly remember can create confusion.
Contradictory usage
If the written message contradicts the earlier discussion, the phrase may appear defensive.
Cultural misunderstandings
Some international readers may interpret the phrase as more authoritative than intended.
Psychological Reason People Prefer “As per Our Conversation”
Cognitive Load Reduction
The phrase allows writers to reference previous discussions without repeating details, saving time for both sender and reader.
Trust and Authority Signals
It suggests that the message reflects shared understanding or agreement, reinforcing credibility.
Attention Economy
Modern communication prioritizes brevity. Short reference phrases help keep messages concise.
Modern Communication Habits
Professionals frequently summarize conversations in writing to create clear documentation and accountability.
US vs UK Usage of “As per Our Conversation”
Popularity: Common in both American and British business communication.
Tone perception:
- In the US, the phrase may sound slightly corporate or formal.
- In the UK, it tends to sound more neutral in traditional professional writing.
Regional preference:
Both regions increasingly favor shorter alternatives such as “as discussed.”
“As per Our Conversation” in Digital & Modern Communication
Emails
Often used to summarize meetings or confirm tasks discussed earlier.
Slack / WhatsApp
Shorter alternatives such as “as discussed” or “per our chat” are more common.
Social Media
Professionals sometimes use the phrase when referencing networking discussions or collaborations.
AI-generated summaries
Meeting transcription tools frequently include phrases like this when generating written summaries.
Linguistic & Communication Insight
Emotional Weight & Subtext
Although the phrase appears neutral, native speakers often perceive it as a gentle reminder of what was agreed upon. In some contexts, it may subtly reinforce responsibility or accountability.
Direct vs Indirect Phrasing
“As per our conversation” is relatively direct, which can improve clarity. However, softer alternatives such as “just to recap our discussion” emphasize collaboration rather than authority.
Professional Communication Perspective
In workplace communication, phrasing influences tone. The phrase works well when documenting agreements but may sound overly formal in relaxed team conversations.
Pragmatic Reasons for Alternatives
Experienced communicators often choose alternatives to maintain rapport, avoid sounding corrective, and encourage collaboration.
Social Signaling
Language choices signal professionalism and emotional awareness. Even small wording differences can influence how cooperative or approachable a message feels.
Tone & Context Guidance
Use the phrase when documentation and clarity are important. Consider alternatives when aiming for a more conversational tone.
Meaning, Usage & Examples for Each Alternative
As Discussed
Meaning: Refers to information previously talked about.
Why This Phrase Works: Short, clear, and widely accepted in professional writing.
Real-World Usage Insight: Many professionals prefer it because it sounds modern and natural.
Best Use: Email follow-ups after meetings.
Avoid When: The reader was not part of the discussion.
Tone: Professional and neutral.
US vs UK Usage: Common in both regions.
Example (Email / Message / Meeting): “As discussed, I’ll send the updated proposal later today.”
Following Our Discussion
Meaning: Indicates that the message continues from a previous discussion.
Why This Phrase Works: Clearly shows sequence and context.
Real-World Usage Insight: Often used in client communication or meeting summaries.
Best Use: Formal email updates.
Avoid When: Writing informal messages.
Tone: Professional.
US vs UK Usage: Common internationally.
Example: “Following our discussion this morning, we’ll begin testing the software next week.”
As Previously Discussed
Meaning: Indicates the topic was already addressed earlier.
Why This Phrase Works: Reinforces continuity in communication.
Real-World Usage Insight: Common in project documentation.
Best Use: Progress reports or follow-up emails.
Avoid When: The earlier discussion may not be remembered.
Tone: Formal and structured.
US vs UK Usage: Common in both regions.
Example: “As previously discussed, the team will complete the draft by Friday.”
Based on Our Conversation
Meaning: Shows that a decision or message is influenced by a prior discussion.
Why This Phrase Works: Sounds thoughtful and analytical.
Real-World Usage Insight: Frequently used in planning or strategy communication.
Best Use: Explaining decisions or plans.
Avoid When: Confirming exact agreements.
Tone: Neutral and reflective.
US vs UK Usage: Common in both regions.
Example: “Based on our conversation yesterday, we’ll prioritize the mobile version of the app.”
As Mentioned Earlier
Meaning: Refers to something previously stated in conversation or writing.
Why This Phrase Works: Helps remind readers of earlier information.
Real-World Usage Insight: Often used in presentations and long email threads.
Best Use: Reminding readers of earlier points.
Avoid When: The earlier reference is unclear.
Tone: Neutral.
US vs UK Usage: Widely used globally.
Example: “As mentioned earlier, the deadline for submissions is April 1.”
As We Talked About
Meaning: References a previous conversation in a natural way.
Why This Phrase Works: Sounds conversational and friendly.
Real-World Usage Insight: Popular in internal team communication.
Best Use: Informal workplace messages.
Avoid When: Writing formal reports.
Tone: Casual-professional.
US vs UK Usage: Very common in the US.
Example: “As we talked about earlier, I’ll update the design tonight.”
Just to Confirm Our Discussion
Meaning: Restates information to ensure accuracy.
Why This Phrase Works: Emphasizes clarity and confirmation.
Real-World Usage Insight: Common after calls or meetings where details matter.
Best Use: Confirming agreements.
Avoid When: You want a very brief message.
Tone: Polite and supportive.
US vs UK Usage: Common internationally.
Example: “Just to confirm our discussion, the meeting is scheduled for Thursday at 10.”
To Recap Our Discussion
Meaning: Summarizes the main points of a conversation.
Why This Phrase Works: Helps ensure everyone remembers the same key ideas.
Real-World Usage Insight: Often used in meeting follow-up emails.
Best Use: Summaries and reports.
Avoid When: No recap is needed.
Tone: Clear and collaborative.
US vs UK Usage: Common globally.
Example: “To recap our discussion, the team will finalize the design this week.”
As We Agreed Earlier
Meaning: Highlights a shared agreement made earlier.
Why This Phrase Works: Reinforces commitment and collaboration.
Real-World Usage Insight: Useful when confirming responsibilities.
Best Use: Project coordination.
Avoid When: No agreement was reached.
Tone: Collaborative.
US vs UK Usage: Common in both regions.
Example: “As we agreed earlier, the product launch will move to next month.”
As We Planned
Meaning: Refers to previously arranged plans.
Why This Phrase Works: Emphasizes preparation and coordination.
Real-World Usage Insight: Often used in event or project planning.
Best Use: Confirming scheduled actions.
Avoid When: Plans were uncertain.
Tone: Neutral.
US vs UK Usage: Common internationally.
Example: “As we planned, the workshop will begin at 9 AM.”
Like We Talked About
Meaning: Informal reference to a previous conversation.
Why This Phrase Works: Sounds natural and relaxed.
Real-World Usage Insight: Common in casual workplace communication.
Best Use: Friendly messages.
Avoid When: Writing to clients or senior leadership.
Tone: Casual.
US vs UK Usage: More common in American English.
Example: “Like we talked about yesterday, I’ll send the files tonight.”
Per Our Chat
Meaning: Indicates that information comes from a recent conversation.
Why This Phrase Works: Short and efficient for digital communication.
Real-World Usage Insight: Often used in Slack or quick team updates.
Best Use: Internal team communication.
Avoid When: Writing formal documents.
Tone: Casual and modern.
US vs UK Usage: Slightly more common in the US.
Example: “Per our chat earlier, the design update is ready.”
As We Went Over Earlier
Meaning: References something previously reviewed together.
Why This Phrase Works: Reminds the reader that the topic has already been explained.
Real-World Usage Insight: Often used in collaborative discussions.
Best Use: Training or team projects.
Avoid When: The earlier explanation was unclear.
Tone: Friendly.
US vs UK Usage: Common in both regions.
Example: “As we went over earlier, the new workflow should reduce processing time.”
As We Decided Together
Meaning: Emphasizes a shared decision.
Why This Phrase Works: Highlights teamwork and mutual agreement.
Real-World Usage Insight: Often used in collaborative projects.
Best Use: Team communication.
Avoid When: The decision was not mutual.
Tone: Supportive.
US vs UK Usage: Common globally.
Example: “As we decided together, we’ll focus on improving the onboarding process.”
According to Our Discussion
Meaning: Indicates that the message reflects earlier conversation details.
Why This Phrase Works: Reinforces alignment with prior discussion.
Real-World Usage Insight: Used in structured communication.
Best Use: Formal project updates.
Avoid When: Writing casual messages.
Tone: Slightly formal.
US vs UK Usage: Used in both regions.
Example: “According to our discussion yesterday, the report will be ready Monday.”
Comparison Table of 10 Best Alternatives
Below is a quick comparison of the most practical alternatives to “as per our conversation.” Each phrase varies slightly in tone, context, and professional use.
| Phrase | Meaning | Best Use | Worst Use | Tone | US vs UK Usage |
| As discussed | Refers to earlier conversation | Email follow-ups | When discussion was unclear | Professional | Common in both |
| Following our discussion | Continues from previous talk | Formal emails | Casual chats | Professional | Both regions |
| As previously discussed | Refers to earlier detailed discussion | Reports or updates | Informal messages | Formal | Both |
| Based on our conversation | Shows decisions influenced by discussion | Planning communication | Direct confirmations | Neutral | Both |
| As mentioned earlier | References earlier information | Presentations | When reader missed context | Neutral | Global |
| Just to confirm our discussion | Verifies accuracy of details | Clarifying agreements | Short messages | Polite | Global |
| To recap our discussion | Summarizes key points | Meeting summaries | Quick updates | Collaborative | Global |
| As we agreed earlier | Highlights agreement | Confirming commitments | When no agreement exists | Collaborative | Both |
| Per our chat | Refers to recent digital conversation | Slack or quick messages | Formal emails | Casual | US leaning |
| As we talked about | Natural reference to earlier talk | Internal team communication | Formal reports | Casual-professional | US common |
Conclusion
“As per our conversation” remains a versatile phrase in professional communication, bridging spoken discussions and written documentation. Its primary strength lies in clarity and efficiency, allowing professionals to confirm agreements, summarize discussions, and maintain accountability without repeating full conversations. However, tone matters: while it conveys professionalism, overuse or overly formal application may seem rigid or slightly corrective. Modern communicators often choose alternatives like “as discussed,” “following our discussion,” or “just to confirm our discussion” to balance clarity with approachability. Understanding when to use it-emails, meeting summaries, or project updates-and when to avoid it-informal chats or sensitive contexts-enhances communication effectiveness. For professionals, students, and ESL learners, mastering both the original phrase and its alternatives ensures precise, context-appropriate messaging. By integrating these expressions thoughtfully, you maintain professionalism, foster collaboration, and streamline workflow communication, while adapting to contemporary digital and cross-cultural communication styles. Choosing the right variant can strengthen clarity, trust, and engagement in every interaction.
FAQs
What does “As per our conversation” mean?
It refers to information or actions based on a previous discussion. The phrase confirms that the current message aligns with earlier communication, often used in emails, meetings, or messages to maintain clarity and shared understanding.
Is “As per our conversation” formal or casual?
The phrase is moderately formal and professional. It is widely accepted in business and workplace communication but may feel rigid in casual or friendly conversations. Softer alternatives may be preferred in informal contexts.
Can I use “As per our conversation” in emails?
Yes. It is commonly used in emails to summarize discussions, confirm decisions, or remind recipients of agreements. It improves clarity and ensures documentation of prior conversations.
What are alternatives to “As per our conversation”?
Common alternatives include “as discussed,” “following our discussion,” “just to confirm our discussion,” “as we agreed,” and “to recap our discussion.” Each varies slightly in tone, formality, and context suitability.
Should I use it in legal or academic writing?
It is generally not recommended. The phrase is vague for formal documentation in legal or academic contexts, where precise references and detailed citations are required.
How does tone affect its perception?
Tone can make the phrase sound neutral, professional, or slightly directive. In collaborative settings, using softer alternatives helps maintain a friendly, approachable tone while still confirming shared understanding.
Is it common in US and UK workplaces?
Yes. It is widely understood in both regions. The US may perceive it as slightly more corporate, while the UK often treats it as neutral professional language. Modern alternatives are gaining popularity in both regions.
Can it be used in digital communication like Slack or WhatsApp?
Yes, but shorter or more casual alternatives like “per our chat” or “like we talked about” are often preferred in instant messaging to maintain a conversational tone.
Why do professionals prefer this phrase?
It reduces cognitive load, signals trust and authority, and efficiently links written messages to spoken discussions. It helps maintain clarity, accountability, and workflow consistency in fast-paced environments.
When should I avoid “As per our conversation”?
Avoid overuse, unclear contexts, overly formal casual interactions, or sensitive discussions where nuance matters. In such cases, alternatives like “just to recap” or “as discussed” improve approachability and clarity.
Ethan Walker explains English phrases and expressions in simple terms, offering accurate synonyms and natural alternatives to improve clarity in writing and speech.