Phrase meaning and origin

Posted by Henry on September 10, 2003

In Reply to: Phrase meaning and origin posted by Dave on September 10, 2003

: Could someone tell me what the phrase, "agreement in principle" means, what its orgins are, and how it is commonly used?

Two people who have discussed a contract and are broadly happy with the terms have reached agreement in principle. They expect to agree the remaining details and sign the contract in due course.