Oral Agreement Verbs: Understanding the Importance of Using the Correct Language In Business
When it comes to making agreements in business, verbal agreements are commonly used and regarded as the more informal way to make a deal. However, even without the presence of a written agreement, the terms of a verbal agreement can still be legally binding. This is why it is important to understand the correct usage of oral agreement verbs, which provide the clarity and precision required to make sure both parties are aligned and on the same page.
Oral agreement verbs are used when making verbal agreements. These verbs indicate the intended action and commitment of each party, and they must be carefully chosen to ensure that parties fully understand what they are agreeing to. Poorly chosen or ambiguous verbs can lead to misunderstandings and even legal disputes.
For instance, consider the following oral agreement: “I will fix your bike next Wednesday.” The verb “fix” is specific and denotes the intended action clearly, and the timeframe is specified by stating “next Wednesday”. Both parties can clearly understand what is expected in this agreement.
On the other hand, a vague oral agreement could sound like this: “I will try to fix your bike next week.” Here, the usage of the verb “try” leaves room for doubt, and nobody is clear on the level of commitment that the other party is making. This ambiguity can lead to disagreements in the future.
There are a few verbs that tend to cause confusion in oral agreements, such as “consider,” “think about,” and “look at”. These verbs show a lack of commitment and thus should be avoided when trying to make a verbal agreement with someone. Instead, it is best to use verbs such as “agree to,” “commit to,” or “promise to”. These verbs denote the level of commitment expected from each party and provide clarity for all parties involved.
Another important aspect to bear in mind while using oral agreement verbs is the tense in which they are used. Verbs should be used in the present tense to ensure that the agreement is active and ongoing. For instance, “I agree to pay you $500 by Friday” is better than “I agreed to pay you $500 by Friday”. The first sentence is in the present tense and denotes an ongoing commitment, whereas the second sentence is in the past tense and suggests that the agreement has already been fulfilled.
In summary, oral agreement verbs provide clarity and precision when making a verbal agreement. It is important to carefully choose the right verb in order to communicate your commitment clearly. To avoid misunderstandings, it is best to use verbs that denote a high level of commitment, such as “agree to,” “commit to,” and “promise to”. Remember to use present tense verbs to ensure ongoing commitment and avoid past tense verbs that suggest the agreement has already been fulfilled. By following these simple yet crucial guidelines, you can be confident in making a legally binding agreement, even without a written contract.
