Confused Words: Accept vs. Agree

Hello, eager English learners! Today’s lesson will help you understand the difference between the words accept and agree. While these verbs seem alike, their meanings are subtly different. Ready to learn? Let’s begin!

Accept

First up, we have accept. “Accept” (IPA: /əkˈsɛpt/) typically refers to consenting to receive or undertake something offered.

Here are 10 examples:

1. She decided to accept the job offer. (She consented to undertake the job that was offered)
2. I accept your apology. (I receive your apology and I am okay with it)
3. They accept all major credit cards. (They consent to receive payments from all major credit cards)
4. He didn’t accept my advice. (He didn’t take or consider my advice)
5. We accept donations for the charity. (We consent to receive donations for the charity)
6. She wouldn’t accept help from anyone. (She wouldn’t consent to receive help from anyone)
7. I finally accepted the truth. (I finally acknowledged the truth and received it)
8. You need to accept the terms and conditions. (You need to consent to the terms and conditions)
9. They accepted our invitation to the party. (They received our invitation and agreed to come)
10. I accept your proposal. (I consent to your proposal and receive it)

Agree

Next, we’ll tackle agree. “Agree” (IPA: /əˈɡriː/) means to have the same opinion about something or to consent to a proposal or opinion.

Here are 10 examples:

1. I agree with your point of view. (I have the same opinion as your point of view)
2. They didn’t agree on the decision. (They didn’t have the same opinion on the decision)
3. We agreed to meet at the restaurant. (We consented to the proposal of meeting at the restaurant)
4. She agrees that we need more practice. (She shares the opinion that we need more practice)
5. I agree to the terms of the contract. (I consent to the conditions of the contract)
6. They agreed it was the best movie of the year. (They shared the same opinion about the movie)
7. We couldn’t agree on a date for the event. (We couldn’t come to a consensus on the date)
8. He agreed that the plan was fair. (He had the same opinion that the plan was fair)
9. She agreed to help with the project. (She consented to the proposal to help with the project)
10. I agree with your assessment. (I share your opinion about the assessment)

Conclusion

In essence, while accept is about consenting to receive or undertake something, agree is more about having the same opinion or giving consent to a proposal. Knowing the difference will make your English communication even more precise.