Oral vs. Verbal: A Subtle but Important Difference

The Key Difference

• Oral = spoken (using your mouth)
• Verbal = using words (spoken OR written)

Oral: Specifically Spoken

“Oral” refers exclusively to things done with the mouth or by speaking:

• “We had an oral exam.” ✓ (spoken, not written)
• “The doctor gave oral instructions.” ✓ (spoken aloud)
• “Oral hygiene is important.” ✓ (relating to the mouth)

Verbal: Using Words

“Verbal” means expressed in words—this includes both speaking AND writing:

• “She has strong verbal skills.” ✓ (good with words, spoken or written)
• “The contract was a verbal agreement.” ✓ (could be spoken or written)
• “His verbal communication improved.” ✓ (word-based communication)

The Common Mistake

People often say “verbal agreement” when they mean “oral agreement” (a spoken, unwritten deal):

❌ “It was just a verbal agreement, nothing in writing.” ✓ “It was just an oral agreement, nothing in writing.”

Since “verbal” can include written words, “verbal agreement” could technically be written!

When It Matters

In legal and professional contexts, this distinction is important:

• Oral contract = spoken agreement, no written record
• Verbal contract = agreement using words (could be either)

Easy Memory Trick

• Oral starts with “O” like “Oration” (speech)
• Verbal contains “verb”—verbs are action words in language (spoken or written)

Quick Summary

Word	Means	Examples
Oral	Spoken only	Oral exam, oral history
Verbal	Words (any form)	Verbal skills, verbal reasoning