Accords Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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accords

[əˈkɔːrdz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

international relations

Agreements or settlements between countries or groups, usually concerning peace, trade, or other important issues. Accords are often formal and legally binding.

Synonyms

agreements, compacts, pacts, treaties.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
accords	Use when referring to formal agreements or harmonious relations, especially in a diplomatic or business context. Typically implies mutual consent and agreement. The two countries reached several accords to improve trade and reduce tariffs. A series of accords were signed to ensure environmental protection in the region.
agreements	One of the most general terms; use it when referring to any kind of mutual arrangement or understanding, whether formal or informal. They came to an agreement on the terms of the contract. The agreement was reached after several hours of negotiation.
treaties	Use for formal, legally binding agreements between countries or international organizations, often after negotiations and usually requiring ratification. The nations signed a treaty to prohibit the use of nuclear weapons. A trade treaty was established to facilitate economic interactions between the two regions.
pacts	Use to describe formal agreements or promises between parties, often with a sense of solemnity. Can also be used informally but primarily in a formal context; occasionally has a strategic or alliance connotation. The peace pact was signed to officially end the war. The companies entered into a pact to share their research findings.
compacts	Use for formal, often written agreements between parties, usually related to states or large organizations. Implies a degree of commitment and formality. The interstate compact was created to manage water resources across state lines. This compact between the two organizations will ensure better cooperation on health initiatives.

Examples of usage

The two nations signed a series of accords to promote economic cooperation.
The peace accords ended the long-standing conflict between the two countries.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

music

Harmonious sounds produced by two or more notes played together. Accords are essential in creating melodies and harmonies in music.

Synonyms

chords, harmonic sounds, harmonies, melodies.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
accords	In music, 'accords' is less commonly used but can describe harmonious sounds or chords in an older or poetic sense. The symphony's accords filled the hall with beauty. His fingers moved swiftly across the keys, producing sweet accords.
harmonies	Used in music to describe the combination of different musical notes played or sung simultaneously to produce a pleasing effect. Their harmonies were so perfect, it brought tears to the audience's eyes. The band practiced their vocal harmonies for hours.
chords	Used in a musical context to describe the simultaneous sounding of multiple notes to create harmony. She played a series of rich chords on the piano. The guitarist strummed the opening chords of the song.
melodies	Used to describe a sequence of musical notes that is musically satisfying, often serving as the main theme in a piece of music. The violinist played a beautiful melody. He hummed a familiar melody as he worked.
harmonic sounds	Often used in a musical context to describe sounds that are pleasing to the ear, typically referencing overtones or harmonics. The harmonic sounds of the choir echoed through the cathedral. He tuned the instrument to produce pure harmonic sounds.

Examples of usage

The musician played beautiful accords on the piano.
The song featured a lovely sequence of accords.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The word 'accord' comes from the Latin 'accordare', meaning 'to bring to heart' or 'to harmonize'.
In the 14th century, the term began to be used in English to signify agreement or harmony between parties.

International Relations

Accords are often used in diplomacy, where countries come together to agree on treaties or peace terms.
The Paris Agreement is a significant modern accord focused on climate change, established to limit global warming.
Historical accords, like the Treaty of Versailles, marked the end of World War I and reshaped international relations.

Music

In music, 'accords' refers to a combination of notes played together that create harmony, much like mutual agreements in life.
The accord is foundational in music theory, providing the basis for constructing melodies and compositions.

Law

In legal terms, accords can refer to formal agreements where parties consent to certain terms, often used in contracts.
Accords must be mutually agreed upon and are enforceable in a court of law if properly documented.

Psychology

The concept of mutual accord fosters better communication, encouraging cooperation and understanding in relationships.
People are more likely to feel satisfied and happy in relationships when they reach a state of accord with one another.

Origin of 'accords'

The word 'accords' originated from the Latin word 'accordare', meaning 'to bring into agreement'. It first appeared in the English language in the late 14th century. Over the centuries, 'accords' has been used to refer to agreements between nations as well as harmonious sounds in music.

See also: accord, accordance, accordingly.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,924, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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13921 proportioned
13922 flushing
13923 brevity
13924 accords
13925 hiking
13926 sabotage
13927 rung
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