Meaning
To agree on a plan or decision after discussion.
Cultural Background
In US business culture, 'coming to an agreement' is often the goal of a meeting. It is seen as a sign of progress and efficiency. In the UK, this phrase is often used in formal settings. It is a polite way to suggest that a compromise has been reached. In Japan, the process of 'nemawashi' (informal consensus-building) often precedes the formal 'coming to an agreement'. The phrase itself is used only when the final decision is made. In German business, 'coming to an agreement' is taken very seriously. Once an agreement is reached, it is expected to be followed strictly.
Use it for process
Use this phrase when you want to emphasize the effort of the discussion, not just the result.
Don't use with yourself
You cannot 'come to an agreement' with yourself. Use 'I decided' instead.
Meaning
To agree on a plan or decision after discussion.
Use it for process
Use this phrase when you want to emphasize the effort of the discussion, not just the result.
Don't use with yourself
You cannot 'come to an agreement' with yourself. Use 'I decided' instead.
Pair with 'on' or 'about'
Always follow the phrase with 'on' or 'about' to specify what you are agreeing on.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct preposition.
We finally came to an agreement ___ the project deadline.
The preposition 'on' is used to specify the topic of the agreement.
Choose the sentence that uses the phrase correctly.
Which sentence is correct?
'Agreement' is the noun form, and it does not take a past tense suffix.
Complete the dialogue.
A: We need to decide on the budget. B: Yes, let's ___________.
The phrase is complete as 'come to an agreement'.
Match the situation to the most appropriate use of the phrase.
Which situation is best for 'come to an agreement'?
The phrase requires two parties and a decision-making process.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesWe finally came to an agreement ___ the project deadline.
The preposition 'on' is used to specify the topic of the agreement.
Which sentence is correct?
'Agreement' is the noun form, and it does not take a past tense suffix.
A: We need to decide on the budget. B: Yes, let's ___________.
The phrase is complete as 'come to an agreement'.
Which situation is best for 'come to an agreement'?
The phrase requires two parties and a decision-making process.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, you can say 'We came to an agreement with them.'
It is neutral to formal. It's fine for work and serious personal discussions.
'Agree' is a verb for opinions. 'Come to an agreement' is a phrase for making a deal or plan.
Yes, 'We came to an agreement' is very common.
Yes, it is standard in both.
No, that is incorrect. 'Agreement' is the noun.
You can say 'We failed to come to an agreement.'
No, it is a collocation.
No, it's too formal for a simple 'yes'.
It can, but it doesn't have to. It can just be a verbal plan.
Related Phrases
Reach an agreement
synonymTo arrive at a decision.
Come to terms
similarTo accept a difficult situation or reach a compromise.
Find common ground
builds onTo identify shared interests.
Strike a deal
specialized formTo make a formal agreement.
