Basis for Comparison | Contracts | Verbal Agreements |
| | |
Meaning | When an agreement is enforceable by law, it becomes a contract | When a proposal is accepted by a person to whom it is made, with requisite consideration |
Section | Section 2 (h) of Indian Contract Act, 1872 | Section 2(e) Indian Contract Act, 1872 |
Elements | Agreement and enforceability | Offer and acceptance |
Scope | Narrow | Wide |
Consideration | There must be a consideration | Agreement can be made without any consideration |
Preferred mode | Contract must be in writing | Agreements may be made in orally or in writing |
Legality | There is a legal obligation in every contract | Legal obligation may or may not be included in verbal agreement |
One in other | All contracts are agreements | But all agreements need not to be a contract |
Clarity & Details | Can provide specific and detailed terms and conditions | Relies on memory and subjective interpretation |
Modification | Amendments or modifications may require written consent | Can be modified verbally, but proving the modification may be difficult |
Legal Protection | Offer greater legal protection and clarity in case of disputes or breaches | Lack of written evidence may make it challenging to resolve disputes or prove the terms |
Complexity | Suited for complex agreement that require detailed provision | Suitable for simpler or informal agreements |
Professionalism | Indicate a high level of professionalism | Less formal and may indicate a more casual approach |