provisional agreement

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "provisional agreement" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a temporary or preliminary agreement that is subject to further negotiation or finalization. Example: "We have reached a provisional agreement on the terms of the contract, but we still need to finalize the details."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

Edwards had found that Somali negotiators appreciated an appearance of formality, and he had a template for a provisional agreement.

The New Yorker

Diplomats at Lausanne confirmed that provisional agreement had been reached on a central issue that had defied compromise for years, Iran's enrichment capacity.

The Guardian

Late Wednesday, the European Parliament and European Commission struck a provisional agreement to limit bonuses to 100 percent of bankers' salaries.

The New York Times

But other sources said that so far there had only been a provisional agreement, and the deal would involve renting rather than outright buying the place.

Independent

The unions all came to a provisional agreement with US Airways that would provide the basis for new contracts for all workers after a merger.

The New York Times

See articleSpain's prime minister, José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, reached a provisional agreement on the text of a new constitutional statute demanded by Catalonia.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

He said the provisional agreements showed it was possible to reach an agreement "in good faith, based on clear objectives".

The Guardian

Including preshow deals, there are signs it will reach close to 1,000 A320neo firm deals or provisional agreements by the end of the week.

The New York Times

Despite soporific press conferences laced with talk of benchmarks, provisional agreements, regulatory frameworks and the guaranteeing of fundamentals, Ukrainian reformers say pressure from Brussels really has been a key driver of the reform process.

The Guardian

The two sides have reached provisional agreements only on the easiest three of the six points on the agenda on rural development, participation in politics and how to fight drug trafficking.

The Economist

The two countries have also inked two provisional agreements.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "provisional agreement", clearly state the conditions or steps required for the agreement to become final. This avoids ambiguity and sets clear expectations.

Common error

Don't treat a "provisional agreement" as inconsequential. It represents progress and a mutual understanding, even if further steps are needed for ratification.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "provisional agreement" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in describing initial understandings or steps toward more permanent arrangements. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "provisional agreement" is a noun phrase used to describe an agreement that is not yet final but represents progress toward a more binding commitment. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. As demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, it appears frequently in news and media, as well as in formal business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure you clarify any conditions or next steps needed for the agreement to become final. Alternatives include "tentative agreement" or "preliminary agreement". The phrase is widely understood but should not be treated as inconsequential, as it indicates a mutual understanding that requires further action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tentative agreement

Replaces "provisional" with "tentative", emphasizing the conditional nature of the agreement.

preliminary agreement

Uses "preliminary" to suggest an initial, groundwork-laying agreement.

agreement in principle

Indicates agreement on the main ideas, but details remain to be worked out.

interim agreement

Emphasizes the temporary nature of the agreement, intended to bridge a gap.

temporary accord

Replaces both words to signal a short-term agreement.

conditional agreement

Directly states that the agreement is subject to certain conditions.

working agreement

Highlights that the agreement is functional but possibly still under development.

draft agreement

Highlights that the agreement is still in the drafting stage and subject to revision.

initial understanding

Indicates a basic level of agreement at the start of negotiations.

framework agreement

Suggests a structure for future agreements rather than a complete deal.

FAQs

What does "provisional agreement" mean?

A "provisional agreement" is a preliminary accord that is not yet fully finalized or ratified. It indicates that parties have reached a basic understanding, but further negotiations or actions are required for it to become a binding commitment.

How to use "provisional agreement" in a sentence?

You might say, "The unions reached a "provisional agreement" with the company, pending ratification by their members".

What can I say instead of "provisional agreement"?

Alternatives include "tentative agreement", "preliminary agreement", or "interim agreement". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

What is the difference between a "provisional agreement" and a final agreement?

A "provisional agreement" is subject to change or cancellation, whereas a final agreement is binding and enforceable. The "provisional agreement" typically requires further steps, such as formal approval or the fulfillment of specific conditions, to become final.