Counteroffer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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counteroffer

[หŒkaสŠnยทtษ™rหˆษ”ห.fษ™r ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

business negotiation

A counteroffer is a response to an initial offer, where the recipient proposes different terms than those originally suggested. It signifies that the initial offer was not accepted as is, prompting further negotiation. The counteroffer can change aspects such as price, terms, or conditions of the original proposal. This process continues until both parties reach an agreement or decide to finalize the negotiation.

Synonyms

adjusted proposal, modified terms, revised offer.

Examples of usage

  • She made a counteroffer after reviewing the initial job salary.
  • The buyer responded with a counteroffer for the house price.
  • After the first proposal, he submitted a counteroffer to improve the terms.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In law, a counteroffer is a response that changes the terms of the original offer and invalidates it.
  • If someone counters an offer, the original offeror can't accept their first offer anymore unless they make a new one.
  • Counteroffers are often used in real estate transactions to negotiate better terms between buyers and sellers.

Negotiation Techniques

  • Effective negotiators use counteroffers to create a dialogue and find a mutually beneficial solution.
  • Counteroffers can lead to concessions, where both parties give something up to reach an agreement.
  • Timing and tone of a counteroffer can significantly affect the negotiation outcome.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and TV shows, counteroffers are often depicted in business settings, showing characters negotiating deals.
  • Famous films like 'The Godfather' feature negotiation scenes where characters make counteroffers to change outcomes.

Psychology

  • Research shows that making a counteroffer can convey confidence and increase the chances of better terms.
  • Counteroffers can be a strategic way to avoid rejection, as they provide an alternative that may be more acceptable.

Business Practices

  • Businesses often encourage counteroffers to maintain flexibility in negotiations and adapt to market changes.
  • In employment negotiations, a counteroffer can lead to a better salary or benefits package for potential employees.

Origin of 'counteroffer'

The term 'counteroffer' is formed from the prefix 'counter-', which means 'against' or 'opposite', combined with 'offer', originating from the Old English 'offrian', meaning 'to present as a gift or an offer'. The use of 'counter' emphasizes the idea of responding against or in opposition to the original offer, noting that negotiation often involves a series of offers and counteroffers. The concept has been prevalent in legal and business contexts for centuries, reflecting the complex dynamics of negotiation processes in both personal and professional settings. The practice of making counteroffers illustrates the importance of negotiation skills and the understanding that not all initial offers will be accepted without modification.