by common accord

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by common accord" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is agreed upon or accepted by all parties involved. Example: "The decision to move forward with the project was made by common accord among all team members."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

An agreement, by common accord, preserves the interests of both parties.

The Guardian - Sport

From across the woods, as if by common accord, birds left their trees and darted upward.

The New Yorker

John XXIII saw such a problem 40 years ago when he warned that the world authority he envisaged "must be set up by common accord, and not imposed by force" or assumed on the basis of military or economic superiority.

The New York Times

Those sorts of works, by common accord, made up the broad center of fiction; they dominated the best-seller lists, swept the prizes, were accorded respectful reviews in publications like this one.

The New York Times - Books

The Court was composed of seven judges, appointed by common accord of the national governments for six years.

Wikipedia

The Treaty stated that the location of the institutions would be decided by common accord of the members, yet the issue was hotly contested.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

As with BAE Systems and its Glasgow shipyards, Bombardier still needs that sense of common accord, supported by taxpayer-backed common expenditure.

The Guardian - Business

They cannot exist without common accord (and, in recent times, common expenditure), and by design they offer a practical benefit to individual and collectivity alike".

The Guardian - Business

Find that common accord, Mr Jenkins.

The Guardian - Business

Among lawyers who do have foreign language skills, western European languages are the most common, according to research by Obelisk.

The Guardian

But fuel shortages may prove common, according to estimates by United Nations officials, who say the country is almost certain to endure shortages this winter of kerosene and liquefied petroleum gas.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by common accord" to emphasize that a decision or action is the result of mutual agreement and understanding, particularly when highlighting cooperation and shared purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "by common accord" in casual conversation or informal writing. It is generally better suited for formal or official contexts where precision and a tone of mutual agreement are desired.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by common accord" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the manner in which an action is performed or a decision is made. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

33%

Formal & Business

17%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by common accord" is an adverbial phrase used to convey that a decision or action is the result of mutual agreement. Ludwig AI validates the correct usage of the phrase. It is best suited for formal contexts, as confirmed by its prevalence in news, media, and business-related sources. While relatively uncommon in everyday conversation, this phrase is useful when precision and a tone of mutual agreement are required. Consider using alternatives like "by mutual agreement" or "by unanimous consent" to express similar ideas with slightly different nuances. Avoid using "by common accord" in very informal situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by mutual agreement

Emphasizes the reciprocity of the agreement, suggesting both parties actively consented.

by unanimous consent

Highlights that everyone involved agreed without opposition.

with one accord

Implies a unified feeling or purpose behind the agreement, adding an emotional dimension.

by agreement

A more concise version, suitable for formal contexts where brevity is valued.

by consent

Focuses on the act of giving permission, suggesting a more passive form of agreement.

collectively agreed

Emphasizes the group aspect of the agreement, highlighting that it was a joint decision.

by general consensus

Stresses that the agreement emerged from a broad alignment of opinions.

by shared understanding

Focuses on the cognitive aspect, implying that the agreement stems from a common interpretation of facts.

in mutual understanding

Highlights the reciprocal awareness and acceptance that underpins the agreement.

by joint resolution

Suggests a formal decision reached through a collaborative process.

FAQs

What does "by common accord" mean?

The phrase "by common accord" means that something is done or agreed upon by the mutual consent of all parties involved. It signifies a shared understanding and agreement.

When is it appropriate to use "by common accord"?

It is most appropriate to use "by common accord" in formal or official contexts where it's important to emphasize that a decision was reached through mutual agreement. It is suitable for scenarios involving negotiations, contracts, or resolutions.

What are some alternatives to "by common accord"?

Alternatives include "by mutual agreement", "by unanimous consent", or "by agreement". The best alternative depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

How does "by common accord" differ from "by majority vote"?

"By common accord" implies that everyone agrees, whereas "by majority vote" means that a decision is made based on the preference of more than half the participants, even if some disagree. Thus, "by majority vote" doesn't require full agreement, whereas "by common accord" does.