Note: The translation for this entry is currently under quality review. Some content is temporarily displayed in English only.
agreement
/əˈɡɹiːmənt/
The word functions across three distinct planes: the legal, the interpersonal, and the linguistic. In a legal context, it carries a weight of formality and obligation; it is not just a "deal" but a structured commitment often codified in writing.
Interpersonally, it describes a state of alignment. Unlike "consensus," which implies a collective group decision, agreement can be as simple as two people sharing the same opinion. It suggests a lack of conflict or friction.
In linguistics, the term is technical and neutral. It refers to the structural mirroring between words (like subject and verb), acting more as a mechanical requirement than a social or legal one.
Countable when referring to a specific legal contract or a formal deal ('They signed three separate agreements'). Uncountable when describing a state of harmony, mutual understanding, or grammatical correspondence ('The parties reached an agreement' as a state, or 'subject-verb agreement').
💬Casual Conversation
Kip, stop dodging me. Did you sign the maintenance agreement for the life support?
I'm swamped. I'll get around to it once this leak stops acting up.
Meanings
Examples
The two companies signed a trade agreement to reduce tariffs.
They were in complete agreement regarding the new policy.
In French, there is strict agreement between the adjective and the noun.
Collocations & Compounds
binding agreement
Noun collocation: a contract that is legally enforceable
The parties signed a binding agreement to ensure the terms were met.
trade agreement
Noun collocation: a treaty between nations to regulate commerce
The two countries negotiated a trade agreement to lower import taxes.
mutual agreement
Noun collocation: a shared understanding or consensus between parties
The contract was terminated by mutual agreement.
reach an agreement
Verb collocation: to arrive at a shared decision or contract
After hours of debate, the committee finally managed to reach an agreement.
sign an agreement
Verb collocation: to formally execute a written contract
The CEO is expected to sign an agreement tomorrow morning.
Etymology
Derived from the Old French word agrement, which evolved from the verb agreer, meaning to please or consent. This root is further traced back to the Latin adgratum, combining ad (to) and gratus (pleasing), reflecting a transition from a state of being pleasing to the act of mutual consent or a formal arrangement.