I Second That Meaning: A Comprehensive Guide to Agreement and Beyond

In meetings, discussions, and even casual conversations, you’ve likely heard the phrase “I second that.” But what does it really mean? Understanding the nuances of this phrase and its implications is crucial for effective communication and participation, especially in formal settings like board meetings, committee discussions, and parliamentary procedures. This comprehensive guide will delve into the meaning of “I second that,” explore its historical context, provide detailed instructions on its proper usage, and discuss alternative ways to express agreement.

## What Does “I Second That” Mean?

At its core, “I second that” is a declaration of agreement with a proposal, motion, or suggestion that has already been made. It signifies support for the idea and indicates a willingness to consider it further. The phrase is typically used in formal settings, particularly when following parliamentary procedure.

Specifically, “seconding” a motion serves several important purposes:

* **Validation:** It validates the proposal as worthy of discussion. A motion must be seconded to be considered by the group.
* **Support:** It demonstrates that at least two people believe the proposal has merit.
* **Progression:** It allows the meeting to move forward. Without a second, the motion is typically dropped.

Essentially, seconding a motion is a procedural step that ensures proposals receive due consideration and that the meeting focuses on ideas with demonstrable support.

## A Brief History of Seconding a Motion

The practice of seconding motions has roots in parliamentary procedure, which itself evolved from centuries of custom and practice in the British Parliament. The need for a second arose from the desire to prevent frivolous or unsupported motions from dominating meeting time. Requiring a second ensures that at least two individuals believe a proposal warrants consideration before it is opened for debate and voting.

The specific rules and procedures governing the use of “I second that” can vary depending on the organization or body using parliamentary procedure. However, the underlying principle of requiring a second to validate a motion remains consistent across most systems.

## When to Use “I Second That”

The appropriate time to use “I second that” is immediately after a motion has been proposed but before any discussion or debate on the motion has begun. The typical sequence of events is as follows:

1. **Motion is Made:** A member proposes a motion. For example, “I move that we allocate $500 for the team-building event.”
2. **Second is Offered:** Another member says, “I second that.”
3. **Motion is Restated:** The chair restates the motion. For example, “It has been moved and seconded that we allocate $500 for the team-building event.”
4. **Discussion/Debate:** The floor is opened for discussion and debate on the motion.

It’s important to note that you should only second a motion if you genuinely support it and believe it’s worth considering. Seconding a motion doesn’t necessarily mean you’re completely in favor of it, but it does mean you think it deserves discussion.

## How to Properly Use “I Second That”: Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to properly second a motion:

**Step 1: Listen Carefully to the Motion**

Pay close attention to the wording of the motion to ensure you understand exactly what is being proposed. If you are unclear about any aspect of the motion, ask for clarification before seconding it.

**Step 2: Ensure the Motion is in Order**

Before seconding, make sure the motion is relevant to the meeting’s agenda and within the scope of the organization’s authority. If the motion is clearly out of order, seconding it could waste valuable meeting time.

**Step 3: Wait for Recognition**

In some formal settings, you may need to be recognized by the chair before speaking. Raise your hand and wait to be acknowledged. In less formal settings, you can usually simply speak up.

**Step 4: Clearly State “I Second That”**

Use the exact phrase “I second that.” Avoid variations like “I agree” or “I support that.” While these phrases express agreement, they don’t fulfill the procedural requirement of seconding a motion. Speak clearly and audibly so that everyone in the meeting hears you.

**Step 5: Refrain from Adding Comments**

When seconding a motion, simply state “I second that.” Do not add any comments or explanations at this point. The time for discussion and debate will come later.

**Step 6: Allow the Chair to Proceed**

Once you have seconded the motion, allow the chair to restate the motion and open the floor for discussion. Your role at this point is simply to listen to the debate and contribute your thoughts when recognized.

**Example Scenario:**

Let’s say you are attending a board meeting for a non-profit organization. A board member proposes the following motion: “I move that we approve a grant of $1,000 to the local community center for their after-school program.”

If you support this motion and believe it deserves consideration, you would say, “I second that.” The chair would then restate the motion, and the board would proceed with discussing and voting on the grant proposal.

## Common Mistakes to Avoid

* **Seconding Without Understanding:** Never second a motion you don’t fully understand. Ask for clarification if needed.
* **Seconding Out of Obligation:** Don’t feel pressured to second a motion if you don’t genuinely support it.
* **Adding Comments When Seconding:** Stick to the phrase “I second that.” Avoid adding any comments or explanations at this stage.
* **Seconding Before a Motion is Made:** Wait until a motion has been formally proposed before offering a second.
* **Using Incorrect Phrases:** Use the exact phrase “I second that.” Avoid variations like “I agree” or “I support that.”
* **Seconding a Motion That Has Already Been Seconded:** A motion only needs one second. Offering a second after one has already been made is unnecessary.

## Alternative Ways to Express Agreement (Outside of Formal Motions)

While “I second that” is the appropriate phrase for seconding a motion in a formal setting, there are many other ways to express agreement in less formal situations. Here are some alternatives:

* **”I agree.”** This is a simple and straightforward way to express agreement.
* **”I support that.”** This indicates your support for the idea or proposal.
* **”That’s a great idea.”** This expresses enthusiasm for the suggestion.
* **”I think that’s a good solution.”** This conveys your belief that the proposal is a viable solution.
* **”I’m on board with that.”** This indicates your willingness to participate and support the idea.
* **”Sounds good to me.”** This is a casual way to express agreement.
* **”I’m in favor of that.”** This states your approval of the proposal.
* **”I concur.”** This is a more formal way to express agreement, similar to “I agree.”
* **Nodding:** A simple nod of the head can be a nonverbal way to express agreement.
* **Thumbs Up:** A thumbs-up gesture can also indicate agreement, especially in informal settings.

**Adapting Your Language:**

The key is to choose the language that is appropriate for the context. In a formal meeting, stick to “I second that” for motions and more formal alternatives like “I concur” when appropriate. In a casual conversation, you can use any of the informal phrases listed above.

## The Importance of Clear Communication

Understanding and using the phrase “I second that” correctly is just one aspect of effective communication. Clear communication is essential for successful meetings, productive discussions, and strong working relationships. By paying attention to the nuances of language and following proper procedures, you can ensure that your voice is heard and that your contributions are valued.

## Advanced Considerations: Amending a Motion

Sometimes, you might agree with the general idea of a motion but want to suggest a modification. In this case, you can propose an amendment to the motion *after* it has been properly moved and seconded. Here’s how it works:

1. **Motion is Made and Seconded:** As usual, a motion is made and seconded.
2. **Amendment is Proposed:** Before the main motion is debated, a member proposes an amendment. For example, “I move to amend the motion by increasing the grant amount to $1,500.”
3. **Amendment is Seconded:** Another member seconds the amendment.
4. **Debate on the Amendment:** The discussion now focuses on the proposed amendment. Members can speak for or against the amendment.
5. **Vote on the Amendment:** A vote is taken on the amendment. If the amendment passes, it is incorporated into the main motion.
6. **Debate on the Main Motion (as amended):** The discussion then returns to the main motion, as amended. Members can now speak for or against the amended motion.
7. **Vote on the Main Motion (as amended):** A final vote is taken on the main motion, as amended.

**Key Points about Amendments:**

* An amendment must be relevant to the main motion.
* An amendment cannot completely negate the main motion. It should modify or refine it.
* Amendments can be further amended (a “second-degree amendment”), but there are limits to how many layers of amendments are allowed.

## Resources for Further Learning

* **Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised (RONR):** This is the most widely used manual of parliamentary procedure in the United States.
* **Your Organization’s Bylaws:** Your organization’s bylaws may contain specific rules and procedures for conducting meetings.
* **Parliamentary Procedure Workshops:** Many organizations offer workshops on parliamentary procedure.
* **Online Resources:** There are many websites and online resources that provide information on parliamentary procedure.

## Conclusion

Mastering the art of “I second that” and understanding the principles of parliamentary procedure can significantly enhance your participation in meetings and discussions. By knowing when and how to properly second a motion, you can contribute to more efficient and productive decision-making processes. Furthermore, being aware of alternative ways to express agreement allows you to communicate effectively in a variety of settings. So, the next time you’re in a meeting and hear a motion that you support, don’t hesitate to confidently say, “I second that!”