estar de acuerdo
Lemma Details
Translation: to agree; to be in agreement; to concur
Part of Speech: phrase
Etymology: This Spanish phrase combines 'estar' (to be in a temporary state) with the prepositional phrase 'de acuerdo' (in agreement). 'Acuerdo' derives from the verb 'acordar' (to agree), which comes from Latin 'accordare' (to be of one mind, to agree), from 'ad-' (to) + 'cor, cordis' (heart). The etymology reflects the idea that agreement happens when hearts or minds come together in harmony.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 50%
Register: neutral
Mnemonics
- Think of 'acuerdo' as related to 'accord' in English - both mean agreement.
- Remember that 'estar de acuerdo' uses 'estar' (temporary state) because agreement on a topic is considered a temporary condition rather than an inherent quality.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
This phrase is extremely common in Spanish conversation and is often used to express consensus in both casual and formal settings. In business contexts, reaching 'acuerdos' (agreements) is considered important in Spanish-speaking cultures, where relationship-building often precedes business transactions.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'estar de acuerdo' means 'to agree', 'estar de acorde' is not a standard Spanish expression. People might confuse them because 'acorde' (chord, in harmony with) sounds similar to 'acuerdo' (agreement).
Notes: The correct expression is always 'estar de acuerdo' when expressing agreement. 'Acorde' is used in different contexts, typically related to harmony or matching.
Mnemonic: 'Acuerdo' has 'cuerdo' (sensible) in it - when you agree, you're being sensible with others.
Explanation: 'Estar de acuerdo' is a phrase meaning 'to agree' or 'to be in agreement', while 'acordar' is a verb meaning 'to agree upon' or 'to decide together'. 'Acordar' is more about reaching a decision together.
Confused word:
Acordamos reunirnos a las cinco.
We agreed to meet at five.
Notes: 'Estar de acuerdo' describes a state of mind, while 'acordar' is an action verb that implies making a decision or arrangement.
Mnemonic: Think of 'estar de acuerdo' as expressing your current state of agreement, while 'acordar' is the action of reaching that agreement.