oral assurance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "oral assurance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a verbal guarantee or promise made by someone, often in a legal or formal context. Example: "The contractor provided an oral assurance that the project would be completed on time, despite the delays."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

After all, plans can change; few people would sign a contract letting their neighbours demolish their house, based on an oral assurance that they had no such intention.

The Economist

There was no provision in the treaties for British access to the Treaty Ports in time of war, but Chamberlain accepted de Valera's oral assurance that in the event of war the British would have access.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

And ask to see the insurance certificates instead of relying on oral assurances.

The New York Times

Russian officials lament that Mikhail Gorbachev, then Soviet president, failed to get these oral assurances in writing.

The Guardian

JPMorgan seized the money anyway, though the bank has said that it received oral assurances.

The New York Times

It also says that he did not recall ever stating that he was specifically providing a "promise" or a "guarantee," although he did offer oral assurances that the firm would be taken out of its investment in six months.

The New York Times

In his note, Bishop Banks said that he was disappointed by the evaluation and that he had been given oral assurances by the center that "it would be all right to reassign Father Geoghan to pastoral ministry".

The New York Times

Because these oral assurances were contradicted by the written provision of the policy, which specifically excluded payment for illness due to an existing condition, my husband and I asked for something in writing to confirm what we were told.

The New York Times - Travel

Christopher Clark and Kristina Spohr say correctly (Moscow's false memory syndrome, 25 May) that no written or oral assurances about Nato enlargement were given during the negotiations for German reunification in 1990.

The Guardian

MF Global employees repeatedly gave oral assurances to JPMorgan Chase that a crucial payment to cover an overdraft at the bank was not funded by customer money, a lawyer for the bank is expected to tell a Congressional panel on Wednesday.

The New York Times

An attorney for Cosby testified that he only let Cosby answer questions in the deposition because of oral assurances from Castor that there would be no criminal case.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When documenting agreements, always seek written confirmation, even if you've received an "oral assurance". Written agreements are more enforceable and provide clearer evidence of the terms agreed upon.

Common error

Avoid making significant decisions based only on "oral assurances". Always corroborate verbal agreements with written documentation to prevent misunderstandings and protect your interests.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "oral assurance" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. It denotes a guarantee or promise that is communicated verbally, rather than in writing. Ludwig AI confirms the validity and usability of this phrase in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Science

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "oral assurance" is a noun phrase referring to a verbal guarantee or promise. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and usable, though it appears relatively infrequently. It is most commonly found in news and media contexts and wiki. When using this phrase, remember that while it conveys reassurance, written documentation is always preferable for legally binding agreements. Consider alternatives like "verbal commitment" or "spoken guarantee" for variety. Always prioritize written confirmation over relying solely on a "oral assurance" to avoid potential misunderstandings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Verbal commitment

Emphasizes the act of promising verbally, highlighting the commitment aspect.

Spoken guarantee

Highlights the guarantee aspect of the assurance, specifying it's delivered through speech.

Verbal agreement

Focuses on the agreement aspect, specifying it is not written but spoken.

Word-of-mouth promise

Emphasizes the informal, spoken nature of the promise.

Spoken pledge

Similar to guarantee but may imply a more formal or solemn declaration.

Unwritten warranty

Highlights absence of a written agreement, focusing instead on a spoken warranty.

Personal assurance

Focuses on the individual providing the assurance and their personal responsibility.

Informal undertaking

Emphasizes the casual nature of the assurance or commitment.

Gentleman's agreement

Implies a mutual understanding based on honor and trust, without formal documentation.

Verbal affirmation

Focuses on the act of affirming something verbally, providing reassurance.

FAQs

What does "oral assurance" mean in a legal context?

In legal contexts, "oral assurance" refers to a verbal guarantee or promise. While it can be binding, it's often more difficult to prove than a written agreement. Seeking written confirmation is always advisable.

Is an "oral assurance" legally binding?

An "oral assurance" can be legally binding, but its enforceability depends on various factors, including the nature of the agreement, the presence of witnesses, and applicable laws. "Written agreements" are generally easier to enforce.

What can I say instead of "oral assurance"?

You can use alternatives like "verbal commitment", "spoken guarantee", or "verbal agreement" depending on the specific context.

What are the risks of accepting an "oral assurance"?

The primary risk of accepting an "oral assurance" is the difficulty in proving the terms of the agreement if a dispute arises. Memories can fade, and interpretations can differ. Therefore, obtaining "written confirmation" is crucial.