verbal commitments

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "verbal commitments" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to promises or agreements made through spoken communication rather than written documentation. Example: "The team made several verbal commitments during the meeting, but we need to follow up with written agreements to ensure clarity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

42 human-written examples

Verbal commitments are not binding; a signed letter of intent is.

The New York Times - Sports

Just be clear that you're only gathering information, and be sure to make no verbal commitments.

The Guardian

Verbal commitments are non-binding and the official signing period begins Nov. 13.

The New York Times - Sports

Saleh has reneged three times on verbal commitments to step down.

The Guardian

But verbal commitments and loyalty are malleable concepts in professional sports.

The New York Times - Sports

Undaunted, Mr. McCarthy said he had received verbal commitments from Greg Norman and Jack Nicklaus to build golf courses, and Mr. Barton is still considering the possibility.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

18 human-written examples

Eighteen months ago, Shalala made a verbal commitment to stay in the Big East.

The New York Times - Sports

St. John's has a verbal commitment from one player for the 2012-13 season, guard Darrick Wood.

The New York Times - Sports

In January of their senior year, as Toma reconsidered his verbal commitment to U.C.L.A., Notre Dame offered him a scholarship.

The New York Times - Sports

Bryce, a running back, was a longtime verbal commitment to Miami who eventually signed with Tennessee before transferring to Kansas State.

The New York Times

The recruiting battle for Ben Gordon, the Mount Vernon High School basketball star, ended last week when the 6-foot-2, 180-pound Gordon gave a verbal commitment to the University of Connecticut.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In sports recruiting, be aware that "verbal commitments" are non-binding; encourage athletes to sign a letter of intent to solidify their decision.

Common error

Don't treat "verbal commitments" as legally binding agreements. Always seek written contracts or documented agreements to ensure enforceability and avoid misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "verbal commitments" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use in conveying agreements or promises made orally. For instance, "The week after the Sooners defeated Texas, they received verbal commitments from safety Tony Cade and linebacker Demario Pleasant, both of Lewisville (Tex)."

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "verbal commitments" refers to agreements or promises made orally rather than in writing. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across various contexts, especially in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. While the phrase is widely understood, it's essential to remember that "verbal commitments" typically lack the legal enforceability of written contracts. Alternatives such as "oral pledges" or "spoken assurances" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. When relying on such commitments, especially in significant matters, always follow up with written documentation to ensure clarity and legal protection.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spoken promises

Simple and direct, focusing on the act of making a promise through speech.

oral pledges

Focuses on the spoken nature of the promises but uses the word 'pledges' for a stronger sense of commitment.

spoken assurances

Highlights the act of providing comfort or certainty through spoken words.

unwritten agreements

Emphasizes the lack of a formal, written contract, highlighting the informal nature of the understanding.

non-binding assurances

Emphasizes that the assurances are not legally enforceable.

word-of-mouth arrangements

Focuses on how the agreement is communicated and its informal establishment.

handshake deals

Implies an agreement based on trust and a traditional form of sealing a bargain.

gentlemen's agreements

Implies an agreement relying on honor and integrity, especially in business contexts.

oral contracts

A more formal term implying a legally binding agreement made verbally.

casual understanding

Suggests a less formal agreement, based on mutual understanding rather than a strict promise.

FAQs

How are "verbal commitments" used in sports recruiting?

In sports, a "verbal commitment" is a non-binding agreement a student-athlete makes to attend a college or university. It's an early indication of their intention, but the commitment becomes official only when the athlete signs a National Letter of Intent.

What's the difference between "verbal commitments" and signed contracts?

While "verbal commitments" represent an agreement or promise made through spoken words, they typically lack legal enforceability. Signed contracts, on the other hand, are written documents that create legally binding obligations for all parties involved.

When are "oral pledges" preferable to written agreements?

Sometimes "oral pledges" might be preferred in situations needing flexibility or when building trust is more important than legal enforcement. However, always consider written agreements for significant matters to avoid disputes.

Are there situations where it's unwise to rely on "verbal commitments"?

Yes, relying solely on "verbal commitments" can be risky, especially in business deals, real estate transactions, or any situation where substantial resources are involved. Always prioritize written agreements in these scenarios.