Oral

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From the mouth; therefore, of words: enunciated. Spoken. Uttered. Vocalised. Phonated. Rendered through the audible vibration of twin infoldings of membrane stretched horizontally across the larynx which modulate the expulsion of air from the lungs.

Oral is a lesser adjective than verbal, and all the less useful for it. When your circumstances seem to call for the flannel-cut expression orally or in writing, consider “verbal” instead.

Oral amendment and no oral modification clauses

Should one be able to, orally, agree to change the terms of a signed contract the text of which stipulates any amendment to this agreement must be in writing? See the recent, and somewhat stupid, case law on "no oral modification" clauses.

See also

• Verbal
• Orally or in writing — a.k.a. verbal
• No oral modification