As a professional, I understand the importance of using clear and concise language in all forms of written communication. This includes legal agreements, which often contain complex language and terminology that can be confusing for the average reader.

One phrase that is commonly found in legal agreements is “now this agreement witnesseth as follows.” While this phrase may seem like a string of meaningless words, it actually has a specific meaning.

In legal terms, “witnesseth” means to attest or affirm. So when an agreement begins with “now this agreement witnesseth as follows,” it is essentially saying “this agreement affirms the following.” In other words, the agreement is outlining the terms and conditions that both parties have agreed to and are legally bound by.

It`s important to note that this phrase is not necessary in legal agreements and can be replaced with simpler language. In fact, many legal experts recommend using plain language whenever possible to increase readability and reduce the likelihood of misinterpretation.

However, if “now this agreement witnesseth as follows” is used, it should be followed by a clear and concise summary of the terms of the agreement. This can help ensure that all parties involved understand and agree to the terms before signing.

In conclusion, “now this agreement witnesseth as follows” may seem like a confusing and archaic phrase, but it has a specific legal meaning. As copy editors, it`s our job to ensure that legal agreements are written in a clear and concise manner, using plain language whenever possible.