Agreeance vs. Agreement: What's the Difference?
Edited by Janet White || By Harlon Moss || Updated on November 2, 2023
Agreeance is an outdated term for agreement, which means a mutual understanding or arrangement.
Key Differences
Agreeance is an archaic term that you might come across in older literature or discussions, implying the state of agreement. However, its use is rare in modern English. Agreement, on the other hand, is the standard term used today to denote a consensus or a formal arrangement between parties.
The word agreeance might evoke a sense of old-fashioned or literary usage, whereas agreement is universally recognized and used in legal, formal, and casual contexts. Agreement can be documented and legally binding, often detailing the terms of a contract or understanding.
Both words can signify concord or harmony in opinion or feeling, but agreement also carries the weight of legal and social implications. When two people are in agreement, they not only share a viewpoint but may also have external obligations created by that mutual stance.
While agreeance might be used for poetic or stylistic effect, agreement is the go-to term in business, law, and everyday language. It has applications that range from international treaties to mundane daily transactions, reflecting its broader acceptance and utility in English.
Agreeance, due to its scarcity in use, can sometimes be interpreted as a mistaken form of agreement, potentially leading to confusion. Agreement, however, stands clear in its meaning and application, serving as a cornerstone in the vocabulary of negotiations and accords.
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Comparison Chart
Usage Frequency
Rare, mostly archaic
Commonly used in contemporary English
Modern Relevance
Low, often considered outdated
High, relevant in legal, social, and casual contexts
Formality
Limited to stylistic or literary effect
Appropriate in all levels of formality
Legal Implications
Not used in legal documents
Widely used in contracts and legal documents
Perception
May be seen as incorrect or a misspelling
Universally accepted as correct
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Agreeance and Agreement Definitions
Agreeance
Old-fashioned concurrence of opinion.
The council was in agreeance on the matter.
Agreement
A mutual understanding or arrangement.
They reached an agreement to share profits.
Agreeance
An outdated term for agreement.
They nodded in silent agreeance.
Agreement
Harmony or accord in opinion.
There was an immediate agreement among the jury members.
Agreeance
Rarely used synonym for agreement.
We found agreeance on the topic surprisingly quickly.
Agreement
A legal document specifying conditions.
The rental agreement outlined the tenant's responsibilities.
Agreeance
The act of agreeing in a bygone era.
Their agreeance was noted in the historical document.
Agreement
A contract outlining terms between parties.
The agreement was signed after lengthy negotiations.
Agreeance
Concord in thoughts or feelings, archaically.
In agreeance, the poets shared a common theme.
Agreement
The act of agreeing or consenting.
Her nod signaled her agreement to the terms.
Agreeance
The sharing of a view or opinion; agreement.
Agreement
The act of agreeing
When did the agreement take place?.
Agreement
Harmony of opinion; accord
Since we are all in agreement, let's proceed.
FAQs
What does agreement mean?
It signifies a mutual understanding, contract, or the state of concurrence.
What's the origin of agreeance?
It comes from the Old French word "agreer," meaning to please.
Is agreeance a real word?
Yes, but it's archaic and rarely used today.
How do I use agreement in a sentence?
You can use it to refer to a concurrence or a formal arrangement.
Can agreement refer to personal relationships?
Yes, it can denote a personal understanding or consensus.
Can agreeance be used in business?
It's best to use agreement, as it's the standard business term.
Can I use agreeance in formal writing?
It's not recommended; agreement is the preferred modern term.
Is agreement always formal?
It can be formal or informal, depending on context.
How do I form an agreement?
Through negotiation and mutual consent.
Is agreement commonly used internationally?
Yes, it's recognized in international law and business.
How should I replace agreeance in my vocabulary?
Use agreement instead for clarity and modern relevance.
Is agreement legally binding?
Yes, if it's formulated as a contract.
Can I find agreeance in legal documents?
No, agreement is the term you'll find in legal contexts.
Can a verbal understanding be called an agreement?
Yes, though written agreements are more enforceable.
Does agreeance appear in modern dictionaries?
It might, but often flagged as archaic.
Is there a difference in meaning between agreeance and agreement?
Not in meaning, but in usage and relevance; agreement is preferred.
Are agreeance and agreement interchangeable?
In modern English, it's best to stick with agreement.
Why is agreeance not used much today?
Language evolves, and agreeance has largely been replaced by agreement.
Is agreement a noun or a verb?
Agreement is a noun; the verb form is "to agree."
Do all English speakers understand agreeance?
Many might not, due to its rarity.
About Author
Written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
Edited by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
