Definition

Noun: An informal, often unwritten, understanding or arrangement between parties to cooperate or collaborate on a specific task, project, or goal. It is typically based on mutual trust and practical needs rather than a formal, legally binding contract.

Examples

• The two departments reached a working agreement to share resources during the busy season.
• Their partnership is governed by a simple working agreement rather than a lengthy contract.
• We have a working agreement that I handle client meetings while she manages the reports.

Advanced Usage

• "to have a working agreement with someone": To operate under such an informal cooperative understanding.
  • The two research teams have a working agreement to exchange data.
• "to come to a working agreement": To arrive at or establish this type of informal arrangement.
  • After much discussion, the neighbors came to a working agreement about the fence line.

Variants and Related Words

• Gentlemen's agreement (noun): A similar informal agreement, often based on honor, without legal force. (This is a specific, related type of informal pact).
• Understanding (noun): A general state of comprehension or a private, informal agreement.
• Arrangement (noun): A plan or preparation for a future event, which can be formal or informal.

Synonyms

• Informal pact
• Tacit agreement
• Mutual understanding
• Practical arrangement

Antonyms

• Formal contract
• Binding agreement
• Legal treaty
• Written covenant

Related Phrases

• "To work under an agreement": To operate according to the terms of any agreement, formal or informal.
  • The consultants are working under an agreement not to disclose confidential information.
• "An agreement in principle": A preliminary agreement on the fundamental terms, which is also often not legally binding.
  • They have an agreement in principle to merge, but the details are still being negotiated.

Noun

1. an informal agreement to work together