Agreeance vs Agreement: Choose Wisely

I’ve seen a lot of people confuse the words agreeance and agreement, and to be honest, I’ve been there too. While writing an article on language quirks a few years ago, I stumbled across the term “agreeance” and had to read it twice. It didn’t sound quite correct—almost like a misspelling of “agreement.” But the truth is, both are real English words. 

The difference is that one is widely accepted, and the other is a bit more obscure, even considered obsolete in categories like academic or professional writing. Still, the origins of “agreeance” date back to at least the 16th century, which is something I truly appreciate as a language nerd. There’s something fascinating about how ancient words pop up in spoken and written contexts, even when many people are completely unaware of their proper usage.

From my experience, when you speak, it’s easy to use “agreement” because it fits the normal flow of conversation, while “agreeance” might look a bit weirder on paper. Yet, both aim to find common ground, often in mutually harmonious situations where compromise is key. 

It’s the kind of nuanced understanding you gain when you dive into multiple examples and comprehend how concepts, not just nouns, evolve. Like a sandwich with many layers—taste, smell, and even texture—language carries depth. When people suspect a word is mistaken, they often blame it on spoken habits or cultural shifts. 

But if you anticipate the objection, and explore the definitions, spellings, and contexts, it starts to make sense. Whether it’s a thing, a place, or even a truck in a metaphor, the way we talk about ideas says a lot about how we think. Language isn’t static—it rises, falls, and transforms, like smoke—sometimes obscure, sometimes crystal clear.

Agreeance Vs Agreement: Quick Summary

Agreeance is an older form and far less common, while agreement is a widely used, acceptable term to illustrate a mutual understanding or decision between two sides coming together in thought or action. Though both words are correct, agreement better fits the state of being in sync and is easier to explain and use in both informal and formal contexts since the 1800’s.

What Do They Mean?

What Exactly Is Agreeance?

When I first heard someone casually saying the word agreeance, it didn’t sound wrong, but it did feel a bit old-fashioned and maybe even pretentious. It’s an obscure, less common word that basically means the state of being in agreement. While the two words—agreeance and agreement—might look and sound similar, their usage is quite different. 

Agreeance is usually informal and isn’t used as much today, though it still appears in some texts to mean the act of agreeing or having a mutual understanding between parties. It’s a form that once held more weight, but now feels totally outdated in most contexts. In short, it’s one of those quirky things in English that stick around even when they’re no longer the norm.

What Is an Agreement?

From my experience, the term “agreement” usually indicates something clear and formal that’s been reached after understanding between two or more parties. Unlike the casual “agreeance,” an agreement often involves a signed contract—a decision that’s not only good but also legally binding. Yes, both sides might initially have some contradiction, but they typically find a middle ground through mutual compromise. 

This leads to a harmonious concurrence, removing any confusion that could have been previously stated. Such clarity shouldn’t be undervalued, as it ensures that all involved people have the same expectations and prevents misunderstanding from ever being present. 

It’s common for folks to refer to informal agreements as “agreeance,” but if you ask me, securing something concrete with an actual agreement is always smarter—especially if there’s anything significant at stake between the involved parties.

You Might also like: Totalling or Totaling? Stop the Confusion Now!

“Agreeance” or “Agreement”: Which One Should Be Used?

In my experience as a writer and editor, I’ve noticed how language evolves, but also how it can stir up debate. Take the case of agreeance and agreement. Both are real words, but only one—agreement—is widely accepted and commonly used in professional, legal, and business contexts. 

It’s standard, clear, and often feels more appropriate when aiming for communication that is brief, easy, and to the point. If you’re writing a document or giving a speech, agreement is the safe bet. Using agreeance might raise an eyebrow or even sound a bit awkward or pretentious, especially in formal settings.

That said, there’s nothing technically wrong with agreeance. It isn’t a made-up term; it’s an old English word with post-classical Latin and Anglo-Norman connections, though it fell out of use for a reason. Some argue it’s less pleasing because of the vowels and consonant in its ending—an aesthetic, even subjective, detail, sure—but I get it. 

As someone who works with words every day, I find agreement more straightforward and useful in everyday speech. Still, celebrate the flexibility, adaptability, and inventiveness of English. There’s value in revived expressions—just know when they fit the style and situations you’re writing for.

If you’re feeling unsure about whether to use one or the other, think about your audience, the tone, and what sounds natural. For instance, in casual conversations, I’ve heard people use agreeance to sound quirky or funny—and honestly, that works in some cases. But in a guideline, legal draft, or writing a policy? I’d stick with agreement.

It’s widely understood, gets the job done, and doesn’t cause any confusion. In most situations, it’s the better choice—though I’ll admit, agreeance has its moments, even if rare or stylistic.

Agreeance vs Agreement:

When we talk about Agreeance vs Agreement, it’s important to understand their differences and similarities. These two terms share similar meanings, but their usage and context can differ. Let’s break down these concepts in a way that makes it easier to understand.

Which One is More Acceptable?

In my experience, the word “agreement” is widely recognized and understood, while “agreeance” can sometimes be a bit more ambiguous. Agreement clearly conveys a shared decision or understanding, which is why it’s the preferred term in both formal and informal settings. 

On the other hand, agreeance is increasingly used in more casual speech, though it’s less specific and can even sound a bit awkward or out of place, especially in professional or formal writing. You might hear people use it in an informal phrase like, “We are in agreeance,” but it can also be seen as a mistake because it personifies the situation, suggesting that things themselves are actively agreeing.

While the term agreeance is gaining some popularity, it’s still often viewed as a less recognizable choice. In most cases, it’s better to stick with agreement, especially in written text or decisions that require clarity. 

Agreement has the advantage of being clear, recognized, and the safer choice in both speech and writing. In situations where precision matters, such as business or legal contexts, choosing agreement over agreeance ensures there’s no room for confusion. When you’re looking for a term that aligns with what’s generally understood, agreement is the better choice.

You Might also like: Ad vs. Add: Get It Right in Just One Read!

Why is There Confusion?

When talking about agreeance and agreement, there are some subtle nuances that people often miss. Both words share the same root word, “agree,” and revolve around a similar concept—the idea of being on the same page. However, agreement is the more common and proper term, frequently used in both formal and informal settings. 

It’s the concrete term that conveys a shared understanding or a decision between parties. On the other hand, agreeance refers more to the state of being in agreement and is used less frequently.

In many cases, especially in formal writing or discussions, agreement is the better choice because it’s widely understood. Agreeance can be more ambiguous, sometimes leading to confusion, particularly for non-native speakers or those who aren’t familiar with its usage. 

The subtle difference between the two might not always be clear to everyone, but it’s important to use the right word in the right context. Agreement also avoids the uncertainty that agreeance may bring to a conversation or text.

Breaking Down the Causes of Confusion

Many people use agreeance and agreement almost interchangeably, but there’s a slight difference. Agreeance is a less common term, often found in specific contexts or writing styles. It can sometimes cause confusion, especially since it’s a synonym for agreement.

However, it’s usually a mistake to use agreeance when a clearer, more widely understood term like agreement is available. Agreement works well in most situations, whether the tone is formal or informal, making it the best choice in almost every case. When you’re unsure, it’s always safer to stick with agreement as it fits easily into any level of formality.

Using “Agreeance” and “Agreement” in Sentences

Agreeance (Informal)

• Agreeance is often used in casual conversations, like when planning a potluck at the office.
  
• You might say, “We reached an agreeance on the movie to watch,” in a more relaxed setting.
  
• It’s commonly used in informal settings where mutual understanding is implied but not formal.
  
• If the team decides on the blue paint for the room, they may express their agreeance informally.
  
• Unlike agreement, agreeance tends to sound more informal and is rarely used in serious legal contexts, like court.
  
• In informal discussions, such as politics or when watching a movie, agreeance can be appropriate.
  
• If a defendant and plaintiff agree on a small issue, they might casually say they’ve reached an agreeance.
  
• The word is also used when talking about things like climate change, but often in a less formal manner.
  
• Agreeance is more about the feeling of agreement, not the formal action of making a decision.
  
• While not as widely recognized as agreement, agreeance still plays a role in everyday speech.

Agreement (Formal & Informal)

• Agreement is used both in formal settings, like court, and in informal situations, like at a potluck with friends.
  
• When a team agrees on a plan for a project, it’s a formal agreement.
  
• Agreement is essential for mutual understanding, whether it’s about the deadline of a project or the color of paint for the room.
  
• In a divorce situation, agreement is legally binding, making it a formal term.
  
• Agreeing on issues like climate change in politics can happen in both formal and informal settings.
  
• For example, when the team smiles and nods to indicate agreement, it shows a shared decision.
  
• Even non-existent issues can be agreed upon informally, but in court, agreement is required for legal decisions.
  
• In a court case, the defendant and plaintiff must come to an agreement for the case to move forward.
  
• Agreement can resolve problems or barriers, whether they are in business or personal matters like parental decisions.
  
• Whether for fives in a fun situation or a growing threat, agreement helps bring clarity and action.

Which One Should You Use?

• Agreement is the widely accepted term that works in both formal and informal settings, providing clear and effective communication.
  
• Agreeance, though not wrong, is an uncommon word that can sound awkward or even pretentious in business writing or other professional contexts.
  
• In most cases, it’s a safer bet to use agreement, as it avoids confusion and maintains clarity.
  
• If you’re looking for something more casual, agreeance might work in speech, but it is less standard and could raise an eyebrow in serious discussions.

You Might also like: Feal vs Feel: Stop the Confusion Now!

Origins of “Agreeance” and “Agreement” Words

Agreement:

The word agreement has a deep history, originating from Old French and dating back to the late Middle English period, around 1375-1425. It comes from the word “agreement,” combining agree with the suffix “-ment,” signifying the act or state of coming to terms. Over time, agreement has come to represent both the action of making a decision and the resulting state of being aligned. 

The meaning of agreement is clear and widely understood, whether it refers to personal, business, or legal matters. It’s a term that helps people come to terms on various issues and ensures all parties are on the same page, avoiding misunderstandings.

Agreeance:

Agreeance has a recent origin, first appearing in Scottish English around the 15th century. It was formed by adding the suffix “-ance” to the verb agree, which signifies a condition or state of being aligned, rather than the action itself. While agreement refers to the actual decision or action, agreeance emphasizes the state of being in harmony or understanding with someone else. 

Though not as commonly used as agreement, agreeance can still be found in certain contexts, especially in informal discussions where the focus is on the shared state rather than the action. It is important to note that the term remains uncommon in modern language, mostly used in older texts or specific styles.

Conclusion

In discussing agreeance and agreement, both words relate to mutual understanding but are used in different contexts. Agreement is the widely accepted term used in both formal and informal settings to describe a decision or action that both parties agree on. It’s clearer and more acceptable in most situations, ensuring communication is correct. On the other hand, agreeance, though older and obscure, still has its place, mainly used in informal settings where the feeling of satisfaction is being emphasized. If you’re ever in doubt, it’s always a safer bet to choose agreement, as it avoids the incorrect use of less common terms.

Ronnie Dawson

A communication coach with a background in public speaking and business English. He helps professionals refine their English for workplace success.