Verbal commitments

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Verbal commitments" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to promises or agreements made through spoken communication rather than written documentation. Example: "Although we had verbal commitments from the partners, we still need to get everything in writing to ensure clarity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Verbal commitments are not binding; a signed letter of intent is.

The New York Times - Sports

Verbal commitments are non-binding and the official signing period begins Nov. 13.

The New York Times - Sports

Verbal commitments, she says, will suggest you're going to take the job--no matter what--and that may diminish your negotiating pull.

Science Magazine

Just be clear that you're only gathering information, and be sure to make no verbal commitments.

The Guardian

Saleh has reneged three times on verbal commitments to step down.

The Guardian

Hayden said the library has received $11 million in verbal commitments.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

Never has a verbal commitment carried less weight.

The New York Times - Sports

Eighteen months ago, Shalala made a verbal commitment to stay in the Big East.

The New York Times - Sports

St. John's has a verbal commitment from one player for the 2012-13 season, guard Darrick Wood.

The New York Times - Sports

We examined one approach designed to help children resist this temptation: eliciting a verbal commitment to not cheat.

Journal of Experimental Child Psychology

Eighty-four (99%) of the 85 participants gave a verbal commitment to trial the new evidence-based mechanical VTE prevention practices.

Journal of Vascular Nursing

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always follow up "verbal commitments" with written documentation to ensure clarity and enforceability. This helps prevent misunderstandings and provides a record of the agreement.

Common error

Do not rely solely on "verbal commitments" in situations where legal or contractual certainty is required. Always seek written confirmation to ensure the agreement is enforceable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "verbal commitments" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI explains, it refers to promises or agreements made through spoken communication. Examples in Ludwig demonstrate usage in sports recruiting, business deals, and political agreements.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

11%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Academia

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "verbal commitments" denote agreements made through spoken communication rather than written contracts. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While very common across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business, it's crucial to recognize their limitations in terms of legal enforceability. Alternatives like "oral agreements" or "spoken promises" can be used, but always prioritize written confirmation for important matters. As Ludwig's examples demonstrate, relying solely on "verbal commitments" can lead to uncertainty, making written documentation a best practice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Oral agreements

Refers to agreements made orally, without written documentation; focuses on the mode of communication.

Spoken promises

Emphasizes the act of promising something through speech, rather than a formal contract.

Non-binding agreements

Highlights the lack of legal enforceability, unlike formal contracts.

Handshake deals

Implies an agreement based on trust and a handshake, lacking formal paperwork.

Informal pledges

Stresses the informal nature of the commitment, without legal or formal backing.

Unwritten understandings

Highlights that the agreement is not documented, relying on mutual understanding.

Word-of-mouth assurances

Focuses on assurances given through spoken communication.

Gentleman's agreements

Indicates an agreement based on honor and trust, common in business.

Unconfirmed arrangements

Suggests that the arrangements are not yet officially finalized or confirmed.

Preliminary agreements

Signifies agreements that are in the initial stages and not yet fully formalized.

FAQs

How are "verbal commitments" different from written contracts?

"Verbal commitments" are agreements made orally, while written contracts are documented agreements. Written contracts offer legal protection and clarity that "verbal commitments" lack.

Are "verbal commitments" legally binding?

Generally, "verbal commitments" are harder to enforce legally compared to written contracts. Their enforceability depends on jurisdiction and the specifics of the agreement.

What can I say instead of "verbal commitments"?

You can use alternatives like "oral agreements", "spoken promises", or "handshake deals" depending on the context.

When are "verbal commitments" acceptable?

"Verbal commitments" are generally acceptable in informal settings or when building initial trust, but should be formalized with written agreements for significant matters.