A couple of more phrases used in corporate corridors and their possible alternative meanings.

We believe in putting things down in black and white: A statement that envisions a happy state of affairs where no ambiguities exist. Most likely, the truth lies in the grey continuum that lies between the polar ends of black and white. One has to tread really carefully, as in most cases, the fine print is aplenty and is likely to be written in invisible ink.

We are here for the long haul: An expression meant to convey a long-term vision that denotes the ability to invest in human and financial resources that will not get impacted by potential short-term setbacks. Muck like beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder, words like long-term can also have elastic definitions. The litmus test for checking out the nature of commitment, being a severe short-term setback.

(To be continued)

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