memorandum of understanding
Formal intent document
A memorandum of understanding is a formal document outlining terms agreed upon by two or more parties.
Unlike a contract, it typically signals intent rather than binding legal obligation—a preliminary step toward a fuller agreement.
Common in business, government, and international relations: The two universities signed a memorandum of understanding to share research facilities.
Often abbreviated MOU.
- agreement in principleConsent on fundamentals, not specifics
- letter of intentPreliminary agreement expressing commitment
- agreementShared position between parties
- come to termsAccept or reach agreement
- shake handsMutual palm-grip greeting
cooperation · partnership · negotiation · diplomatic channels · good faith · contract · terms and conditions · accord · legal frameworks · deal · pact · settlement agreement · preliminary agreement · treaty obligations · international agreements · international diplomacy · peace accords · signatory
- diplomatic documentstreaty, accord, communique, protocol, diplomatic note
- research collaborationco-authorship, coauthor, collaborative projects, co-investigator, joint project
- interagency coordinationcoordination, liaison, joint operations, joint task force, task force
- preliminary agreementsletter of intent, term sheet, MOU, agreement in principle
- deal termsterm sheet, letter of intent, purchase price, closing date, counteroffer
- organizationsorganization, organizations, company, companies, club
memorandum of understandingbinding contract
Enforceable legal agreement
formal contract · legal obligation · covenant · indenture · treaty
memorandum of understandingverbal agreement
Spoken mutual commitment
handshake deal · oral contract · gentleman's agreement · tacit agreement
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