agreed verbally

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "agreed verbally" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an agreement that was made through spoken communication rather than in writing. Example: "The terms of the contract were agreed verbally during the meeting last week."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Mr. Cuban emphasized that he has never agreed, verbally, to keep something confidential in business.

The New York Times

On Jan . 14the White Plains Common Council agreed verbally to accept the Town Center plans.

The New York Times

Warren denied the allegation, claiming instead that Calzaghe owed him £1m for breaking a contract which had been agreed verbally.

The Guardian - Sport

"These five players have agreed verbally after discussions with the player, their clubs and their player agents," Dodoro told the club's website.

The Guardian - Sport

David H. Murdock, the Los Angeles financier who was co-chairman of the board with Anthony A. Bliss, had agreed verbally to give and raise money to help the Joffrey meet its $2 million deficit.

The New York Times - Arts

Many migrants do not see their contract until they reach the airport, by which time most feel it is too late to change their mind if the terms are not what they had agreed verbally.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

NOTE: If you agree verbally (or via email) to work with a given partner on a given assignment, you are expected to work through that assignment with that partner to completion.

Stanford University

If the N.F.L. unearths evidence that Parcells is circumventing its tampering rules, hitting on his guys after agreeing verbally to a deal, the whole thing may yet blow apart.

The New York Times - Sports

Additionally, I agreed to verbally review the reading and homework assignments with her, guiding her in completing the assignments without giving the answers away.

University of California, Berkeley

So important, in fact, that some of the contract terms with BSGR were rushed (or even agreed only verbally), leading to much executive disquiet at Vale.Rio says it is committed to developing its two remaining blocks.

The Economist

Some are written down, though most programme remits are less formally set out and often agreed only verbally with Department Heads.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When documenting agreements, especially in professional settings, follow up any verbal agreements with written confirmation to avoid misunderstandings or disputes. While "agreed verbally" indicates a mutual understanding, a written record provides concrete evidence.

Common error

Do not assume that a verbal agreement is always legally enforceable. Certain types of contracts, such as those involving real estate or long-term commitments, often require a written agreement to be legally binding. Always check local laws and regulations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "agreed verbally" functions as a past tense verb phrase, describing the action of reaching an agreement through spoken communication. As per Ludwig AI, this phrase is correct and commonly used, signifying that a mutual understanding was achieved through spoken words rather than a written contract. The phrase commonly modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating who came to the agreement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

21%

Academia

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "agreed verbally" is grammatically sound and commonly employed to indicate that an understanding or arrangement was reached through spoken communication rather than in writing. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, its usage spans news reporting, scientific research, and academic discussions, though it is most frequently found in News & Media. While the phrase is widely accepted, it's important to remember that not all verbal agreements are legally binding, and written confirmation is often recommended, especially in formal or professional settings. Synonyms include "verbally consented" and "reached a verbal understanding".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

had a spoken agreement

This is a simple and direct alternative, focusing on the spoken nature of the agreement.

verbally consented

This alternative emphasizes the act of giving permission or approval through spoken words.

gave a verbal agreement

This alternative focuses on the action of providing a spoken agreement.

reached a verbal understanding

This alternative highlights the achievement of a mutual comprehension through conversation.

orally agreed

This uses a more formal term, "orally", to convey the same meaning as "verbally".

verbally confirmed

This emphasizes the confirmation aspect of the agreement, suggesting that something was already in place.

came to a verbal arrangement

This emphasizes that the agreement is an arrangement, which may imply it is less formal or binding.

assented verbally

This suggests a formal or official agreement expressed through spoken words.

shook hands on it

This is an idiomatic expression indicating an informal agreement.

gave their word

This implies a promise or commitment was made, emphasizing the trustworthiness of the agreement.

FAQs

Is an agreement that is "agreed verbally" legally binding?

While some verbal agreements are legally binding, many require written documentation to be enforceable. The specifics depend on the nature of the agreement and the jurisdiction. It's wise to consult with a legal professional to determine the validity of a /s/verbal+agreement.

What are some synonyms for the phrase "agreed verbally"?

Synonyms include "orally agreed", "gave a verbal agreement", or "reached a verbal understanding". Each subtly emphasizes a different aspect of the agreement process; consider the context when choosing the best fit.

How can I confirm a decision that was "agreed verbally"?

Following up with a written summary or email outlining the points that were "agreed verbally" can help clarify the terms and prevent future misunderstandings. Request confirmation or acknowledgement of the written summary from all parties involved.

What is the difference between "agreed verbally" and /s/agreed+in+writing?

"Agreed verbally" means that the agreement was communicated through spoken words, whereas "agreed in writing" means that the agreement was formally documented and signed. Written agreements offer greater legal protection and clarity.