Agreeance vs Agreement can often confuse many, especially when both words seem to have similar meanings. However, the key difference lies in their usage and historical context.
While agreement is the preferred and widely accepted term in modern English, agreeance was once used in older texts, though it is now considered outdated. Understanding the distinction between these two words is crucial, particularly in formal writing and legal agreements.
Whether you’re drafting a business contract or simply aiming for clear communication, knowing when to use agreement will ensure your language is accurate and appropriate. Let’s dive into the history and usage of these terms in detail.
Quick Summary
The word agreement is a commonly used term in modern English, denoting a mutual understanding between two or more parties. It’s the standard term found in both spoken and written language and is widely used in legal documents, business agreements, and everyday communication.
On the other hand, agreeance is an outdated term that’s rarely used today. It originally meant the same thing as agreement, but it’s largely been replaced in formal language by its more modern counterpart. Despite its obsolescence, the word may still appear in older texts.
Understanding Agreeance vs Agreement
The difference between agreement vs agreement lies in their historical context. Agreement is the standard term in modern English, while agreeance is an archaic word used mainly in older English texts. Both terms relate to mutual consent or a shared understanding, but agreement is the preferred choice today.
In formal language and business contracts, agreement is the only acceptable term. Agreeance is rarely seen outside of literary language or historical contexts. Over time, the word evolved, and people preferred the simplicity of agreement for clarity.
Origins of the Agreeance
The word agreeance has its roots in Old English. It evolved from the verb “agree,” but its usage was more common in the 16th century and earlier. Over time, the language shifted, and agreeance became less frequent in spoken language. The advent of formal language and clarity in modern English led to the abandonment of this term in favor of agreement.
Today, agreeance may appear in old literary texts, but it’s considered an outdated term. Linguists regard it as part of the archaic language, making it unsuitable for professional writing or legal contexts.
Origins of the Agreement
Agreement has a long history in English grammar and has been the preferred term for centuries. Unlike agreeance, it remained in regular usage due to its simplicity and clarity. Its roots come from the Latin word “agreare”, meaning “to please” or “to consent,” which gave rise to agreement in modern English.
Today, agreement is the word used in legal contracts, business terms, and written agreements. Its clarity and straightforwardness make it the standard term when mutual consent or a shared decision is involved.
Agreement: The Standard Term
The word agreement is the standard term used in modern English. Whether in business agreements, contractual obligations, or legal documents, agreement is the preferred choice. It signifies a binding understanding between parties, ensuring mutual consent and shared expectations.
It is important to use agreement in formal language because it is universally recognized and accepted in legal contexts. Agreement clauses in a contract or policy agreements often require precise wording to avoid misunderstandings.
Agreeance: An Outdated Term
In contrast, agreeance is a term that has fallen out of favor in modern language. Once used interchangeably with agreement, it now sounds outdated and formal.
In business contracts or any professional communication, using agreeance would likely cause confusion, as it no longer fits with modern usage.
In contract law and other legal terms, clarity is key, and agreeance is rarely seen today. Its absence from formal writing reflects its shift into antiquated words within the English language.
Agreeance: Definition and Usage
Agreeance refers to the state of agreeing or having a mutual understanding, similar to agreement. Historically, it was used to indicate the same thing, but it is now considered outdated and largely replaced by agreement.
Agreeance Usage
Agreeance is still found in older texts, but it is rarely used in modern English. You might encounter it in historical literature or texts that aim to replicate older language styles, such as Old English or archaic language.
Synonyms of Agreeance
While agreeance is no longer common in everyday speech, there are many synonyms for it. Some alternatives include:
- Consensus
- Mutual understanding
- Accord
- Concurrence
- Harmony
- Unanimity
- Unity
- Contract
- Pact
- Treaty
These synonyms all express the idea of mutual consent, which agreeance also conveyed in its day.
Example of Agreement in Business Communication:
In business communication, agreement is crucial for establishing mutual consent and shared expectations. Whether in verbal agreements or written contracts, both parties must come to a clear understanding of the terms. For example, a business agreement may outline the responsibilities of each party and any contractual obligations they must fulfill.
When to Use “Agreeance” (If Ever)
In modern business writing or formal language, you should avoid using agreeance. The word has fallen out of use, and using it in legal documents or business contracts can lead to confusion. Stick to agreement to maintain clarity and avoid misunderstandings.
However, agreeance can still be found in old texts or literary works, where it may add to the historical flavor or tone.
Example of Using “Agreeance” in Old Texts:
In older literary texts or historical documents, you might find agreeance used in a way similar to agreement. For example, a 17th-century contract might use the phrase “in agreeance with the terms.” This reflects how language evolves over time, and it’s a reminder that agreeance once held the same meaning as agreement.
Agreement: Definition and Usage
Agreement refers to a mutual understanding, decision, or contract between parties. It signifies consent or approval of the terms laid out, and it’s a central concept in legal contracts, business terms, and policy agreements.
Agreement Usage
Agreement is used in both written and spoken language. It can refer to a binding contract, business agreements, or mutual consent between parties. In legal contexts, agreement clauses often define the responsibilities and obligations of the involved parties.
Synonyms of Agreement
Here are some common synonyms for agreement:
- Contract
- Deal
- Understanding
- Pact
- Accord
- Arrangement
- Settlement
- Treaty
- Commitment
- Promise
These words can be used interchangeably depending on the context, but agreement remains the most widely used term in business and legal contexts.
Side by Side Comparison
| Agreeance | Agreement |
| Outdated term | Standard term |
| Found in older texts | Common in modern usage |
| Synonym: Consensus | Synonym: Pact |
| Used in Old English | Used in formal writing |
| Rarely used today | Widely used in legal and business contracts |
Agreeance: Is It a Real Word?
Yes, agreeance is a real word, but it is archaic and seldom used in modern English. While it may appear in historical contexts, agreement is the preferred term in current English.
The distinction between agreeance and agreement can be explained through semantic analysis, where agreement has evolved as the term that carries the contextual meaning of mutual understanding in both formal language and informal communication.
The Historical Context of “Agreeance”
Historically, agreeance was widely used in Old English to mean the same thing as agreement. It was the standard term in its time but gradually faded out in favor of the more straightforward agreement. Over time, as language models and syntax analysis evolved, the shift to agreement became clear.
In English grammar, agreeance became an outmoded term, often found in older texts but rarely used in modern communication. Today, agreement holds the position of the standard word for mutual understanding or contractual obligations.
Agreeance Etymology
The word agreeance stems from the verb “agree,” which itself comes from Latin roots meaning “to please” or “to consent.” However, as English evolved, agreement replaced agreeance due to its more straightforward and less formal structure.
Everyday Usage Examples
Agreement is commonly used in everyday life. For example, when you and a friend decide on where to eat, you’ve reached an agreement. Similarly, businesses and governments regularly create written agreements to outline terms and expectations.
How to Choose: “In Agreeance” vs “In Agreement”
The correct expression is “in agreement.” The phrase “in agreeance” is rarely used today, and formal writing generally prefers the more straightforward “in agreement.”
What Does the Webster Dictionary Say About “Agreeance”?
According to Webster’s Dictionary, agreeance is listed as an archaic term. It’s recognized but no longer commonly used in modern English. The preferred term is agreement.
The Bottom Line: Agreement vs Agreeance – Which is Correct?
The correct term is agreement. Agreeance may have been acceptable in older English, but it is now outdated. For formal language, legal contracts, and business agreements, always use agreement for clarity and accuracy.
Agreeance 10 Example
- The agreeance between the two companies was clear.
- They were in agreeance on the policy changes.
- The agreeance in the contract was confirmed by both parties.
- Agreeance on the terms took longer than expected.
- She had reached agreeance with the new proposal.
- The agreeance was a crucial step in the partnership.
- There was a strong agreeance on the need for change.
- After much negotiation, they came to an agreeance.
- The agreeance was finalized after the meeting.
- They found agreeance in their shared vision.
Agreement Example
Here are 10 examples of agreement in sentences:
- We reached an agreement after several hours of negotiation.
- The agreement outlines the terms of the contract.
- Both parties signed the agreement to move forward with the deal.
- The team members came to an agreement on the project’s timeline.
- She confirmed her agreement to the new terms by signing the document.
- The agreement between the two companies was beneficial for both sides.
- The agreement requires that all payments be made within 30 days.
- They had a verbal agreement to collaborate on the project.
- An official agreement was signed by the leaders of both nations.
- The lawyer carefully reviewed the agreement before presenting it to his client.
READ MORE……..Agencies or Agencys: What’s the Difference?
FAQs
Is agreeance a proper word?
Agreeance was once used, but it is no longer considered a proper word in modern English.
Is agreeance obsolete?
Yes, agreeance is considered obsolete and rarely used in contemporary language.
Why do Australians say agreeance?
Agreeance may be used in Australian English in informal contexts, though it’s less common now.
What is the Australian slang for agreement?
In Australian slang, agreement is typically referred to as a “deal” or “pact” rather than agreeance.
Conclusion:
agreeance vs agreement, it’s important to note that agreement is the correct and widely accepted term. Agreeance is a nonstandard variation that is rarely used in formal writing or speech.
Using agreement will ensure your communication is clear and professional. Whether referring to a mutual understanding or formal contract, agreement is always the right choice.
By understanding the distinction between agreement vs agreement, you can avoid confusion and elevate your language skills for better accuracy and effectiveness in communication.
