preliminary agreement

USAGE SUMMARY

"preliminary agreement" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to the initial arrangement between two or more parties before they formally agree to a contract. For example, "We have reached a preliminary agreement on the terms of the contract, and now we need to finalize the details."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The formal preliminary agreement was signed yesterday.

The New York Times

A preliminary agreement was reached in August 1998.

The New York Times

A preliminary agreement was announced on July 30.

The New York Times

Kyoto, a preliminary agreement, will make but a small difference.

The Economist

A preliminary agreement to open German banks in Iran has reportedly been reached.

The Guardian

Last month, Mr. Myers reached a preliminary agreement to cooperate with investigators and enter pleas.

The New York Times

The Big Board said it would make no further announcements unless a preliminary agreement was reached.

The New York Times

U.S. Flag & Flagpole Supply in Beaumont, Tex., has signed a preliminary agreement to build the pole.

The New York Times

Cukurova signed a preliminary agreement in March to sell 27percentt of Turkcell to TeliaSonera.

The New York Times

A preliminary agreement with the two main separatist groups was signed in June.

The Guardian

Boeing said it had reached a preliminary agreement with the state-owned carrier.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "preliminary agreement", ensure you clarify the specific aspects covered by the agreement and the next steps required for it to become final. For example, "We've reached a preliminary agreement on pricing, but the delivery schedule is still under negotiation."

Common error

Avoid treating a "preliminary agreement" as a done deal. Emphasize that it is subject to further negotiation and potential changes, preventing misunderstandings or premature commitments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "preliminary agreement" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a state of negotiation and intent, as supported by Ludwig AI's analysis and example sentences.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Formal & Business

20%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "preliminary agreement" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase that signifies an initial understanding or consensus between parties before a final contract is established. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various domains, particularly in News & Media, Formal & Business, and Academia, indicating a neutral to professional register. When using this phrase, clarity is crucial to avoid misinterpretations about the agreement's binding nature. Alternatives like "initial understanding" or "tentative pact" can be employed for nuanced expression. Remember that a "preliminary agreement" is not a done deal but rather a foundation for future negotiations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Draft agreement

Specifies that the agreement is still in the drafting stage and subject to change.

Initial understanding

Focuses on the understanding aspect rather than the formal agreement.

Outline agreement

Suggests the agreement only covers the main points and lacks specific details.

Provisional arrangement

"Arrangement" is used instead of "agreement", implying a less formal and more flexible understanding.

Tentative pact

Uses "pact" instead of "agreement", suggesting a more formal or significant understanding, but maintains the "tentative" nature.

Early-stage agreement

Emphasizes the agreement is at an initial phase of development.

Working understanding

Highlights the practical and functional aspect of the agreement, suggesting it's in progress.

Framework agreement

Suggests an agreement that provides a basic structure for future agreements or negotiations.

Interim accord

Replaces "agreement" with "accord", suggesting a more formal but temporary understanding.

Letter of intent

Refers to a document outlining the intention to enter into an agreement, but not legally binding.

FAQs

What does "preliminary agreement" mean in legal terms?

In legal contexts, a "preliminary agreement" is a non-binding agreement that outlines the basic terms of a deal. It signifies an intent to move forward but doesn't guarantee a final contract.

How is a "preliminary agreement" different from a contract?

A "preliminary agreement" expresses intent but lacks the legally binding clauses of a formal contract. Further negotiations and a finalized document are needed to create a contract.

What can I say instead of "preliminary agreement"?

You can use alternatives like "initial understanding", "tentative pact", or "provisional arrangement" depending on the context.

Is a "preliminary agreement" legally binding?

Typically, no. A "preliminary agreement" is usually not legally binding because it lacks specific details and is subject to further negotiation. However, some clauses, such as confidentiality, may be binding.