Which email phrases create legal obligations
Phrases that sound like guarantees or acceptance and safer alternatives.
Legal obligations often appear in emails, not contracts. One confident sentence can be read as acceptance or a guarantee.
The issue is that email is recorded. In a dispute, that wording can look like a binding commitment.
Below are concrete examples of risky phrasing and safer alternatives.
What the main problem is
Email wording is read literally. Words like “guarantee”, “commit”, or “accept all terms” are treated as legal positions.
Even if you meant it as a plan, the phrasing can look binding and lead to claims.
Example of risky wording
These phrases turn a normal email into something that reads like a contract.
Risky phrasing examples
- We confirm acceptance of all terms without exceptions.
- We commit to compensate any losses and lost profit.
- We guarantee delivery on the exact date, no rescheduling.
- We accept any penalties if there is a delay.
We guarantee the result and take full responsibility, including any losses and penalties.
Why this can cause problems
Unconditional wording can be treated as a contractual promise. In a dispute, the email becomes evidence against you.
The more categorical the promise, the higher the risk of financial exposure.
Why this is risky
- Creates the impression of an unconditional guarantee.
- Removes flexibility to clarify terms later.
- Emails can be used as evidence in disputes.
How to phrase it more safely
Keep commitments conditional and tie liability to the agreement.
If unsure, you can check the message before sending to spot wording that sounds like a guarantee.
We can discuss responsibility and timelines in the agreement after scope approval.
We will confirm the terms after final alignment.
We can review compensation if there is a material deviation from the agreed plan.
Timelines are preliminary and depend on client inputs.
What to double-check before sending
Look for words like “guarantee”, “commit”, “accept all terms”. They are risk flags.
When discussing money, deadlines, or liability, state that final terms are in the contract and require approval.
If the message sounds too firm, it is safer to check it before sending.
Risky phrasing examples
- Add conditions and assumptions.
- Avoid confirming acceptance without reviewing the terms.
- Separate intentions from obligations and document agreements separately.
Check your message before sending
SendSafe will highlight risks and suggest safer wording.