loose agreements

USAGE SUMMARY

"loose agreements" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to refer to a type of agreement or arrangement that is not well-defined or formally established. For example, "The two countries were making loose agreements on trade terms."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Loose agreements have not proved strong enough to stop reckless behaviour.

The Economist

Some are no more than loose agreements to work together on a project; others are full-blown joint ventures.

The Economist

Icann has had oversight over domain names under a series of loose agreements with the U.S. government, which financed much of the Internet's development.

The New York Times

In other words, any concerns expressed about loose agreements resulting from the safeguards or about threats to health and safety (Sanitary and Phytosanitary or SPS) standards amount to the likelihood that a measure thought to be unjust or inessential restriction could be challenged in dispute settlement.

Journal of Economic Structures

We took the trip and had some loose agreements to manufacture children's clothing there.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Affiliation is a rather loose agreement to share resources like computer software but not clinical services.

The New York Times

The two were moving in loose agreement, often with a groove that was only implied; they clicked quietly and intuitively.

The New York Times - Arts

In 1891 a loose agreement provided for mutual consultation in crisis; in 1894 this was broadened into a military alliance by whose terms each partner promised to aid the other in case of attack by Germany or Germany's allies.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Two background singers moved in loose agreement while tossing calebasses — basket-shaped gourds ringed with shells that clicked against them — and other members of her retinue came onstage to dance.

The New York Times - Arts

However, England confirmed there is no formal arrangement for Flintoff to bowl at England's batsmen and, at this stage, there is just a loose agreement for him to lend his ear to the players and offer any advice he can give, specifically on bowling at the end of one-day innings.

The Guardian - Sport

By loose agreement, a recession shades into a depression when it stretches out for 36 months.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing international relations or political scenarios, use "loose agreements" to indicate a lack of formal treaties or binding contracts.

Common error

Avoid portraying "loose agreements" as equivalent to formal contracts. Clearly indicate their non-binding nature to prevent misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "loose agreements" functions as a noun phrase, where "loose" modifies the noun "agreements". It describes the nature of the agreements, indicating they are not strict or formally binding. Ludwig confirms the usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "loose agreements" refers to informal or non-binding arrangements. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable, although it appears relatively rarely in formal writing. Its primary function is to describe deals or understandings that lack the strict enforceability of formal contracts, often appearing in news and media contexts. Related terms include "informal arrangements" and "verbal commitments", each highlighting slightly different aspects of the agreement's nature. When using this phrase, ensure that its informal and non-binding nature is clearly conveyed to avoid misunderstandings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Informal arrangements

Focuses on the lack of formality.

Unwritten understandings

Emphasizes the absence of a written contract.

Verbal commitments

Highlights reliance on spoken promises.

Gentlemen's agreements

Suggests an agreement based on honor and trust.

Non-binding pacts

Clarifies the absence of legal obligation.

Flexible arrangements

Highlights the adaptability and ease of modification.

Tentative deals

Emphasizes the provisional nature of the agreement.

Preliminary understandings

Indicates an agreement in the early stages of development.

Weak accords

Emphasizes the lack of strength or enforcement.

Casual arrangements

Highlights the relaxed and informal nature of the agreement.

FAQs

What does "loose agreements" mean?

The term "loose agreements" refers to informal or non-binding arrangements that lack the strict enforcement mechanisms of formal contracts or treaties.

How to use "loose agreements" in a sentence?

You can use "loose agreements" to describe situations where parties have a mutual understanding without a formal contract. For example: "The company operated under "loose agreements" with its suppliers."

What are some alternatives to "loose agreements"?

Alternatives to "loose agreements" include "informal arrangements", "verbal commitments", or "non-binding pacts".

When is it appropriate to use the term "loose agreements"?

Use "loose agreements" when describing situations where the understanding between parties is flexible, informal, and not legally enforceable. Avoid using it when describing formal or legally binding contracts.