Is It Correct to Say ‘I am agree’?
No, it is not correct to say “I am agree.” This is one of the most common grammar mistakes made by English learners. The verb “agree” is a verb, not an adjective, so it does not combine with the verb “to be” in this way. The correct form is simply “I agree.” This guide explains why this error happens, how to use “agree” correctly in different contexts, and provides practical examples to help you avoid this mistake in your writing and speaking.
Quick Answer
Incorrect: I am agree.
Correct: I agree.
Use “I agree” as a simple present tense statement. If you want to express a state of agreement, use “I am in agreement” (formal) or “I am agreed” (rare, passive voice). For most everyday situations, stick with “I agree.”
Why “I am agree” Is Wrong
The error comes from translating directly from languages where the word for “agree” functions as an adjective. In English, “agree” is a verb that describes an action or state. Verbs do not follow the verb “to be” (am, is, are) in this way. Compare these correct sentences:
- I agree with your opinion. (verb)
- I am happy with your opinion. (adjective)
- I am in agreement with your opinion. (noun phrase)
Notice that “happy” is an adjective, so it works with “am.” “Agree” is a verb, so it stands alone. “Agreement” is a noun, so it works with “in” and “am.”
How to Use “Agree” Correctly
Simple Present Tense
Use “agree” as a main verb in the simple present tense. This is the most common and natural way to express agreement.
Natural examples:
- I agree with your proposal.
- We agree on the main points.
- She agrees that we need more time.
- They agree to meet tomorrow.
Formal Alternatives
In formal writing, emails, or professional settings, you might use “I am in agreement” or “We are in agreement.” This is grammatically correct because “agreement” is a noun.
Natural examples:
- I am in agreement with the committee’s decision.
- We are in agreement regarding the budget.
- The board is in agreement on the new policy.
Past Tense and Other Forms
Remember that “agree” changes form like any regular verb:
- I agreed with you yesterday. (past tense)
- I have agreed to the terms. (present perfect)
- I am agreeing to the changes. (present continuous)
Comparison Table: “Agree” vs. Common Mistakes
| Incorrect | Correct | Context |
|---|---|---|
| I am agree | I agree | Everyday conversation, informal email |
| I am not agree | I do not agree / I disagree | All contexts |
| He is agree | He agrees | All contexts |
| We are agree | We agree | All contexts |
| I am agree with you | I agree with you | All contexts |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake 1: Using “am” before “agree”
Incorrect: I am agree with your point.
Correct: I agree with your point.
Mistake 2: Using “am” in negative sentences
Incorrect: I am not agree with that.
Correct: I do not agree with that. / I disagree with that.
Mistake 3: Confusing “agree” with adjectives like “happy” or “sure”
Incorrect: She is agree to help us.
Correct: She agrees to help us.
Mistake 4: Using “agree” with “to be” in questions
Incorrect: Are you agree?
Correct: Do you agree?
Better Alternatives for Expressing Agreement
Depending on the situation, you can use different phrases to sound more natural or appropriate.
Informal / Conversation
- I agree.
- You’re right.
- That’s true.
- Exactly.
- I think so too.
Formal / Email
- I am in agreement.
- We concur. (very formal)
- I share your view.
- That aligns with my thinking.
When to Use “I am in agreement”
Use this phrase in formal emails, business reports, legal documents, or academic writing. It sounds more professional and deliberate than “I agree.”
Example in an email:
“Dear Mr. Chen, I am in agreement with the proposed timeline. Please proceed with the next steps.”
Natural Examples in Context
In Conversation
- “I think we should leave early.” “I agree. Traffic will be bad.”
- “Do you agree with the new rules?” “No, I don’t agree. They are too strict.”
- “She agrees that we need a break.” “Yes, we all agree on that.”
In Email
- “I agree with your assessment of the situation.”
- “We are in agreement regarding the contract terms.”
- “Please let me know if you agree to the proposed changes.”
In Formal Writing
- “The researchers agree that further study is needed.”
- “Both parties are in agreement on the key issues.”
- “The committee agrees to approve the application.”
Mini Practice Section
Test your understanding. Choose the correct option for each sentence.
- I _____ with your opinion.
a) am agree
b) agree
c) am agreeing - She _____ to join the team.
a) is agree
b) agrees
c) are agree - _____ you agree with the decision?
a) Are
b) Do
c) Is - We _____ in agreement about the plan.
a) are
b) do
c) is
Answers:
- b) agree
- b) agrees
- b) Do
- a) are
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is “I am agreed” ever correct?
Yes, but it is very rare and formal. “I am agreed” uses the passive voice, meaning someone has agreed with you. For example: “I am agreed with by the board.” This is almost never used in everyday English. Stick with “I agree” or “I am in agreement.”
2. Can I say “I am agreeing”?
Yes, but only in the present continuous tense. For example: “I am agreeing to the terms right now.” This is less common than “I agree” and is used when emphasizing the action happening at this moment.
3. What is the difference between “agree with” and “agree to”?
“Agree with” is used for opinions, people, or ideas. Example: “I agree with you.” “Agree to” is used for proposals, plans, or actions. Example: “I agree to the terms.”
4. Is “I am not agree” ever acceptable in informal speech?
No. Even in casual conversation, “I am not agree” is incorrect. Native speakers will immediately notice the error. Use “I don’t agree” or “I disagree” instead.
Final Tips for Learners
To avoid this common mistake, remember that “agree” is a verb that works like “walk,” “eat,” or “think.” You wouldn’t say “I am walk” or “I am eat,” so don’t say “I am agree.” Practice by writing sentences with “agree” in different tenses. If you need more help with similar grammar issues, check our Grammar Accuracy Checks section for other common corrections. For email-specific phrasing, visit Email Phrase Corrections. If you have questions about this guide, see our FAQ page or contact us for clarification. Always remember: correct grammar builds confidence in both writing and speaking.
