Terms
TURMZ
/tɜːrmz/
The conditions and stipulations under which an agreement is made.
Refers to the specific rules, conditions, or provisions that define an agreement or contract.
The story behind the word. The word 'terms' comes from the Old French terme, which itself derived from the Latin terminus, meaning 'end' or 'boundary.' In ancient Rome, Terminus was the god of boundaries and landmarks. So, the 'terms' of an agreement are essentially its 'boundaries' or 'limits' – they define what is included, what is excluded, and under what conditions the agreement exists. They set the 'end' or scope of the understanding between parties.
Word relationships
- Conditions: Specific requirements that must be met.
- Provisions: A clause or condition in a legal document.
- Stipulations: A condition or requirement that is specified or demanded as part of an agreement.
Commonly confused with
- Clauses: A 'clause' is a specific section; 'terms' are the overall conditions, which may be contained within multiple clauses.
Word family
- terminal (adjective): of, forming, or situated at the end or extremity of something
- terminate (verb): to bring to an end
Collocations
- terms and conditions
- negotiate terms
- agree to terms
- favorable terms
- payment terms
Idioms & expressions
- come to terms with
- on good terms
- in no uncertain terms
Example sentences
- "Before signing, it's crucial to carefully read and understand all the terms and conditions of the service agreement." Referring to the conditions of a contract.
- "After lengthy negotiations, both parties finally agreed on the terms of the peace treaty." Discussing a negotiation.
- "We are on good terms with our neighbors despite a minor disagreement last year." In a general sense of agreement.
Memory hook
The TERMS of an agreement set the TERMinating points or boundaries. TERMS: Agreement boundaries.
When not to use
While 'term' can mean a period of time, in the context of contracts, 'terms' (plural) specifically refers to the conditions. Be clear from context.
Fun facts
- The word 'terminal' (as in an airport terminal or a computer terminal) also comes from terminus, indicating an end point or boundary.
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