memorandum of intent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "memorandum of intent" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal or business contexts to indicate a document that outlines the intentions of parties involved in a potential agreement or transaction. Example: "Before we proceed with the contract, we should draft a memorandum of intent to clarify our mutual goals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The cathedral and a developer have signed a memorandum of intent; they have not "signed a lease agreement".

The New York Times

Work toward developing a Memorandum of Intent between the U.S. and Canada to reduce air pollution and acid deposition began in the 1970s.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Spokesmen for the two groups said their boards had endorsed a "memorandum of understanding," expressing their intent to merge, but they said significant details remained to be worked out.

The New York Times

Even more curious, a few weeks later, long-time Mercedes rival BMW another hybrid hold-out signed a memorandum of understanding withold-out signed enter into a definitive agreememorandumGM and DCX later in the year.

Forbes

Initially, there was a letter of intent followed by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between provincial authorities and PERSI in Yogyakarta.

Global Health Action

A spokesperson for the college told Community Care: "Discussions continue with Unison under a joint statement of intent, which replaces the previous memoranda of understanding and ensures that clear boundaries and independence are maintained".

The Guardian

British Minister of State for Europe, Joyce Quin, was so incensed by her government's extremism in "genocide denial," and its allegation that there was no evidence of a Turkish intent to commit genocide that, in an April 13 , 1999memorandum to the Foreign Office, she pointed out that the issue of intent had never been examined by government officials.

Huffington Post

Or a statement of intent?

The New York Times - Arts

Mata was a huge statement of intent.

Independent

This raises the question of intent.

The New Yorker

It was an outrageous statement of intent.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When drafting a "memorandum of intent", clearly define the scope, objectives, and expectations of all parties involved to avoid future misunderstandings. Include specific details, even if the document is non-binding.

Common error

Don't treat a "memorandum of intent" as a legally binding contract unless explicitly stated. It primarily serves as a preliminary agreement, and subsequent formal contracts should always be drafted for legally binding commitments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "memorandum of intent" functions as a noun phrase often used as a subject or object within a sentence. It identifies a specific type of document outlining preliminary agreements. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

10%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "memorandum of intent" is a grammatically correct and usable noun phrase that indicates a preliminary, non-binding agreement between parties. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's commonly found in news, scientific, and business contexts, serving to express intentions and initiate negotiations. While alternatives like "letter of intent" and "statement of intent" exist, it's important to remember that a "memorandum of intent" should not be considered a legally binding document unless explicitly stated. When using this phrase, clarity and specificity are key to avoiding future misunderstandings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

letter of intent

Focuses on the document being a letter, maintaining a similar formal tone but changing the specific type of documentation.

statement of intent

Emphasizes the declaration aspect rather than the formal agreement aspect implied by "memorandum".

expression of interest

Highlights the initial phase of showing interest, which is less formal than a "memorandum".

preliminary agreement

Stresses the agreement's early-stage nature, synonymous with the "intent" aspect of the original phrase.

outline of intentions

Breaks down the phrase to its core components, focusing on the plan rather than the document itself.

declaration of purpose

Highlights the communicative purpose behind the "memorandum", shifting focus to the goal.

agreement in principle

Highlights the agreement's early stage, and focus on fundamental aspects of it.

understanding in writing

Highlights the written aspect rather than the formal agreement aspect implied by "memorandum".

non-binding agreement

Highlights the fact that agreements are not legally binding in most contexts.

preliminary understanding

Stresses the agreement's early-stage nature, and focus on understanding rather than binding aspects.

FAQs

What is the purpose of a "memorandum of intent"?

A "memorandum of intent" outlines the preliminary understanding between parties who plan to enter into a formal agreement. It clarifies intentions and sets the stage for further negotiations.

How does a "memorandum of intent" differ from a contract?

Unlike a contract, a "memorandum of intent" is generally non-binding. It expresses a willingness to move forward, whereas a contract establishes legally enforceable obligations.

What should be included in a "memorandum of intent"?

A "memorandum of intent" should include the parties involved, a clear statement of intent, the scope of the proposed agreement, and any key terms or conditions. Consider adding a timeframe for further action.

What can I say instead of "memorandum of intent"?

You can use alternatives like "letter of intent", "statement of intent", or "preliminary agreement" depending on the context.