Agreement Upon: A Guide to Proper Usage
When it comes to the phrase “agreement upon,” many writers and speakers tend to misuse it. It is a common mistake to use it interchangeably with “agreement about” or “agreement on.” However, there are subtle differences in the meaning of each phrase, and it is important to know how to use them correctly.
First, let`s define what “agreement upon” means. It refers to a mutual understanding or acceptance of something by two or more parties. It implies that there was a discussion or negotiation that led to the final agreement.
For instance, “The two parties reached an agreement upon the terms of the contract.” Here, the phrase “agreement upon” emphasizes the process of reaching an understanding or acceptance of the contract terms.
Now, let`s compare it to “agreement about” and “agreement on.” “Agreement about” refers to a general consensus or understanding of a particular topic or issue. It is not necessarily a negotiated agreement but instead an acknowledgment of a shared opinion.
For example, “There is a general agreement about the importance of environmental conservation.” Here, there was no negotiation or discussion involved. It is a statement of a commonly held viewpoint.
On the other hand, “agreement on” is used to refer to a specific point or issue agreed upon by parties. It is similar to “agreement upon” in that it implies negotiation and discussion, but it is more focused and specific.
For instance, “The two parties reached an agreement on the price of the house.” Here, the phrase “agreement on” highlights the specific point of negotiation, which is the price of the house.
Now that we have distinguished the three phrases` meanings, it is essential to use them correctly in writing and speech. Misusing or interchanging them can lead to confusion or uncertainty in the reader or listener.
In conclusion, “agreement upon” refers to a negotiated understanding or acceptance of something, “agreement about” pertains to a general consensus or understanding of a particular topic or issue, while “agreement on” is used to refer to a specific point or issue agreed upon by parties. Knowing when and how to use these phrases correctly is crucial to effective communication.