devise an agreement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "devise an agreement" is grammatically correct and commonly used in written English.
It means to create or come up with a plan or arrangement between two or more parties. Example: The two companies worked together to devise an agreement that would benefit both of their businesses.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

It's possible to devise an agreement that leaves both China and the Tibetans much better off — if they hurry.

The New York Times

Treasury Secretary James A. Baker III, a k a the Velvet Hammer, summoned the finance ministers of Japan, West Germany, Britain and France to the White and Gold Room of the Plaza Hotel in New York on Sept. 22, 1985, to devise an agreement to weaken the dollar.

The New York Times

These states should recognize the urgent need to balance their domestic sovereignty with regional responsibility, devise an agreement on how to proceed together, and develop a regional all-inclusive center for cooperation on safety, security, and sustainability, as well as emergency response.

International Journal of Disaster Risk Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

So when the government and the reservation's tribal leaders devised an agreement that would specify who was entitled to the water, and how much they could take from the reservoirs and ditches, there was bound to be some discord.

The New York Times

And he said there was still no significant effort to devise an international agreement, let alone a deflection technique, for dealing with the inevitable earthbound asteroid or comet, large or small, when it is identified.

The New York Times

At today's "meeting," they will now attempt to clarify the meaning of the recent compromise agreement on filibusters and/or devise a new agreement more palatable to both parties.

The New York Times

Whether the Pope's message will have any influence on the world's 1.2 billion Catholics, on the delegations currently trying to devise an international climate agreement, or on anyone else remains to be seen.

The New Yorker

European Union leaders are set to meet in Brussels next week, where they will try to devise a more detailed agreement on the shape of the new, permanent bailout fund, which should be put in place after 2013.

The New York Times

Charles Pugh, president of the Detroit City Council, said he and many of his colleagues would be willing to help devise a different consent agreement with the state that "makes sense for Detroit," but he criticized the current proposal, saying it took too much autonomy away from city leaders.

The New York Times

Those who raised this considered offering tailored information and counselling, devising a contractual agreement between the provider and the user, subject to regimen compliance, and developing a tight monitoring system, including electronic reminders and frequent follow-up, to be fundamental in order to enhance compliance to treatment and testing.

BMJ Open

With that in mind, American and Chinese negotiators should begin work to devise a "trade investment framework agreement," the foundation for a more ambitious deal in years to come.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "devise an agreement", ensure that all parties involved are clearly defined and that the agreement addresses specific needs and expectations. Clarity in objectives will lead to a more robust and enforceable outcome.

Common error

Avoid vague or ambiguous language when you "devise an agreement". Ensure all terms, conditions, and obligations are clearly defined to prevent misunderstandings and disputes down the line.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "devise an agreement" functions as a verbal phrase, where "devise" is a transitive verb meaning to plan or invent, and "an agreement" serves as its direct object. This indicates the action of creating or planning a formal arrangement. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "devise an agreement" is a grammatically correct and professionally appropriate way to describe the act of creating a formal understanding or plan between parties. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is most frequently found in news and media, scientific, and formal business contexts. While not exceedingly common, its usage is clear and precise, making it suitable for situations where careful planning and articulation are essential. When employing this phrase, ensure clarity in defining all involved parties and the specific objectives of the agreement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

formulate an agreement

Stresses the systematic and precise articulation of an agreement.

craft an agreement

Highlights the skill and care taken in creating an agreement, emphasizing artistry and precision.

establish an agreement

Emphasizes the formal setting up and implementation of an agreement, unlike devising which concentrates on the creation phase.

propose an agreement

Focuses on the act of putting forward an agreement for consideration, differing from devising which implies creation.

develop an agreement

Focuses on the process of growth and refinement that an agreement undergoes, suggesting more evolution over time.

build an agreement

Emphasizes the gradual construction and development of an agreement over time, unlike devising which suggests a more immediate creation.

prepare an agreement

Highlights the preparatory steps taken before an agreement is finalized, differing from the initial creation implied by devising.

identify an agreement

Focuses on the recognition and pinpointing of existing agreements.

consider an agreement

Emphasizes the thorough evaluation and deliberation of an agreement, unlike devising which focuses on its initial conception.

envision an agreement

Focuses on imagining or foreseeing a future agreement, which is more conceptual than devising.

FAQs

What does "devise an agreement" mean?

The phrase "devise an agreement" means to create or come up with a plan or arrangement that is mutually acceptable to all parties involved.

How can I use "devise an agreement" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe the process of creating a formal understanding, such as: "The diplomats worked diligently to devise an agreement that would ensure lasting peace."

What are some alternatives to "devise an agreement"?

You can use alternatives like "craft an agreement", "formulate an agreement", or "establish an agreement" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "devise an agreement" and "reach an agreement"?

"Devise an agreement" refers to the process of creating the agreement, whereas "reach an agreement" indicates that the process is complete and all parties are in accord.