Learn English – Where did “I tend to agree.” as a standalone statement originate

meaningphrases

And what does it mean? When I first started hearing someone using it a few years ago, I figured it was a personal spin on "agree sometimes", but apparently, he's not the only one who uses this phrase.

Edit: Clarified to indicate that "I tend to agree that/with…" makes complete sense. It's when people say, "I tend to agree.", period. That's what strikes me as strange to say.

Best Answer

Tend means "be inclined", "feel willing or favorably disposed".

She tends to believe I can get that job.

The origin of the word is middle 14th century, from the Old French tendre.