Definition

Verb: - To engage in a discussion aimed at reaching an agreement or settling the terms of a deal, arrangement, or contract.

Usage

This verb is used to describe the process of formal discussion and bargaining between parties. It implies a negotiation where specific conditions, prices, or details are being proposed, debated, and agreed upon. It is often used in business, legal, and diplomatic contexts.

Examples

Advanced Usage

• "to talk terms with someone": This is the standard construction, specifying the other party in the negotiation.
  • The government is prepared to talk terms with the rebel faction.

Variants and Related Words

• Negotiate (verb): A direct synonym, meaning to discuss something formally to reach an agreement.
• Bargain (verb): To discuss the terms of a transaction, often with a focus on price.
• Haggle (verb): To negotiate, especially in a persistent and petty manner about price.
• Parley (verb/noun): A formal discussion between enemies or opponents.

Synonyms

• Negotiate
• Discuss terms
• Deliberate
• Confer

Related Phrasal Verbs / Constructions

• Talk over: To discuss something thoroughly.
  • We need to talk over the details before we proceed. (Note: This is broader than "talk terms," which is specifically about the conditions of an arrangement.)

Related Idioms

• To come to terms: To reach an agreement.
  • After hours of discussion, they finally came to terms.
• To be on speaking terms: To be willing to talk to someone, often after a disagreement. (This indicates a basic level of communication but not necessarily negotiation.)
  • They are on speaking terms again, so they might be able to talk terms soon.

Verb

1. discuss the terms of an arrangement
   • They negotiated the sale of the house