Meaning & use
agreements
Last updated
“agreements” is a form of “agreement”. See that entry for the full set of meanings.
Meanings
nounplural
Formal or informal arrangements in which people, companies or countries promise to do certain things.
Grammar: Plural of agreement; use a plural verb: the agreements were signed.
Patterns
- agreements between someone and someone
- agreements on something
The two countries signed several trade agreements last year.
Before we rent the flat, we should put the agreements in writing.
The agreements cover payment, deadlines and delivery.
nounplural
Occasions when people share the same opinion or reach a decision they all accept.
Grammar: Plural of agreement in the sense of shared views; often with 'reach': they reached several agreements.
Patterns
- agreements about something
The team reached agreements on the schedule and the budget.
There were few agreements between the two sides at the start of the talks.
Quiet agreements among the neighbors kept the street peaceful.
Word forms
| singular | agreement |
|---|
Common combinations
- sign agreements
- The leaders will sign agreements on trade and climate.
- binding agreements
- Verbal promises are weaker than binding agreements.
- reach agreements
- The unions reached agreements with several employers.
- trade agreements
- New trade agreements made imports cheaper.
- break agreements
- Companies that break agreements may face fines.
- written agreements
- Always keep written agreements with your landlord.
Synonyms and how they differ
- deals
- Sounds more casual and is often used for commercial bargains.
- contracts
- Are legally binding written agreements, so they are narrower and more formal.
- treaties
- Are formal agreements between countries only.
- arrangements
- Is looser and can describe plans that are not formally promised.
Opposites
Word family
- agree verb
- to have the same opinion or accept a plan
- agreement noun
- singular form, a deal or a shared view
- agreeable adjective
- pleasant, or willing to agree
- disagreement noun
- a situation where people do not share the same view
Commonly confused: agreements or arguments?
agreements vs arguments
Arguments are disputes or reasons given for a view; agreements are shared decisions or deals.
Practice
After weeks of talks, the two companies finally signed several ____ covering price and delivery.
Choose one answer.
Companies sign agreements, which are deals. Disagreements are the opposite and cannot be signed in this sense.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “agreements”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.